You mailed your application, you sent in your passport book, and now you're waiting. It can be incredibly stressful when you check the status online and see nothing.
The good news? Seeing "Not Found" usually doesn't mean your application is lost. Here is what's actually happening behind the scenes, when you can expect an update, and a few tricks to find your status if the system is being difficult.
When Can I Check My Status?
Patience is key here. It typically takes 5 to 7 business days (and sometimes up to 2 weeks) from the day your application arrives at the facility for it to show up in the tracking system.
If you check before that window has passed, you will almost certainly see a "Not Available" or "Not Found" message. This just means your envelope hasn't been scanned into the digital system yet.
How to Check Your Status Online
Go to the official U.S. Passport Application Status tool.
You'll need to enter your info exactly as it appeared on your application:
- Last Name: Include hyphens if you have them.
- Date of Birth: Format it as MM/DD/YYYY.
- Social Security Number: Just the last four digits.
Help! My Status Says "Not Found"
If it's been more than two weeks and the system still can't find you, don't panic. Try these troubleshooting steps before you spend hours on hold:
- Check Your Bank Account: This is the best "hack." Did the State Department cash your check? If the money is gone from your account, they have your application. It's safe. The online tracker is just lagging behind.
- Drop the Suffix: The government system is notoriously finicky with suffixes. If you are "John Smith Jr." or "John Smith III," try searching for just "John Smith." This solves the problem more often than you'd think.
- Check for Typos: It sounds obvious, but double-check that you didn't accidentally swap a digit in your birth year or SSN.
Current Processing Times
Once your status finally flips to "In Process," here is how long you'll likely wait to get the card in your hand:
- Routine Processing: 4 to 6 weeks
- Expedited Processing: 2 to 3 weeks
Still Having Trouble?
If you've confirmed your check was cashed but you still can't track your application after two weeks, you can contact the National Passport Information Center.
Phone: 1-877-487-2778
TDD/TTY: 1-888-874-7793
Representatives are available Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. Eastern Time (excluding federal holidays).
Top 5 Questions About Expedited Passport Couriers
2. What exactly does a passport expediter do?
3. Are passport expediting services legitimate?
4. How can I identify a reliable passport expeditor?
5. Is expedited passport service worth it?
Get answers to these questions and more in our Ultimate U.S. Traveler's Guide to Passport Expediters.
You can also visit our library of articles about passport expediting.
