No Urgent Passport Renewal Appointments Available? What to Do

If no urgent passport appointments are available, continue checking the official appointment system, consider agencies in other cities, and compare whether expedited renewal by mail or a registered passport courier could meet your deadline.

Check for Newly Available Appointments

Passport agency appointments may become available when other travelers cancel or change their plans. Check the online appointment system periodically, but do not depend solely on an opening appearing.

You must be within 14 calendar days of international travel—or within 28 days if you need a foreign visa—to qualify for an urgent-travel appointment. Proof of travel is required.

Search Passport Agencies in Other Cities

You are not required to visit the passport agency closest to your home. Search for appointments at other regional passport agencies if you are able to travel.

Before booking an appointment at an agency far away, consider the full cost:

• Transportation
• Parking
• Hotel and meals
• Missed work
• Childcare
• The possibility that your passport may not be issued immediately

Consider Expedited Renewal by Mail

If your trip is more than three weeks away, expedited renewal by mail may still be appropriate. Current processing estimates do not include mailing time, so use faster delivery methods when necessary.

This option is generally available only if you qualify to renew using Form DS-82.

Compare Registered Passport Couriers

A private passport courier may help with document review, submission logistics, tracking and return delivery. Couriers charge fees in addition to government fees and cannot guarantee approval or bypass State Department requirements.

Compare the courier’s available processing times, fees, refund policy and document requirements before paying.

If You Already Applied

Do not submit a duplicate application. Check your application status and contact the National Passport Information Center at 1-877-487-2778 if your trip is within 14 days. Have your application locator number and proof of travel available.

Passport agency appointments are free. Do not buy an appointment from a third party. Instead, compare all legitimate urgent passport renewal options and choose the one that best fits your travel date.