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A fast US pass port application processing may be required for last-minute discount vacations, family emergencies or essential business trips. On average, the US Department of State takes six weeks to process applications and send out passports. If urgent travel plans mean you can’t wait that long to get your passport, you have three options.

Expedited Service

If you have at least three weeks before your departure date, you can take advantage of the department’s expedited mail service for obtaining or renewing passports. You will have to pay an extra fee as well as two-way overnight delivery charges. Expedited applications are usually processed within ten days, although a number of factors can result in delays.

Passport Agencies

If you plan to travel within two weeks, you can make an appointment to apply in person at one of the thirteen regional passport agencies spread throughout the country. In addition to the usual material required for applications, you must have official documents showing that your departure date is in less than fourteen days. The standard expedited service fee applies.

Private Companies

If you need to travel in less than a week, you can turn to one of the expediting services run by private companies. These businesses have the necessary connections to get passports into the hands of their customers in as little as two working days. Expect to pay substantial fees and shipping costs on top of all the government charges.

Required Documents

No method of fast passport application processing can be successful without the required documents. Along with regulation-size passport photos, you will need to submit proof of US citizenship and proof of identity. In most cases this will take the form of a driver’s license and birth certificate. If any documents are invalid, processing will be delayed.

Preparation

If a professional expediting company is handling your case, you still have plenty of work to do. You will need sign a letter authorizing the company to represent you. You must them bring all of your documents to the nearest designated processing center. A State Department Acceptance Agent will go over your materials and witness your signature on the application form before it is delivered to the expediter.

Website

The government’s travel website is a useful resource for government information on applying for passports. It details the documents that will be accepted in support of applications. Professional expediting businesses guide their customers through the steps necessary to obtain passports. They provide complete instructions for completing applications and assistance is available over the phone.

Tracking

The Department of State has a facility for tracking the status of child pasport online. However, it may take up to a week for information to become available. Private expediters provide email conformations and updates. Their phone representatives are always available to inform clients on progress and answer any queries.