Last checked: November 14, 2026. Every fact on this page comes from the official sources listed at the bottom.
Not legal advice. This page is a plain-language summary of official rules for general information. Rules change and individual situations differ. Always confirm with the official source linked below before you travel.
Current processing times
The State Department lists these times. They count only the time your application spends at a passport agency or center. Mailing is extra.
| Service | Processing time | Cost on top of the application fee | Choose it when |
|---|---|---|---|
| Routine | 4 to 6 weeks | None | You travel in 6 weeks or more |
| Expedited | 2 to 3 weeks | $60 expedite fee | You travel in less than 6 weeks |
| Urgent (in person) | By appointment at a passport agency or center | $60 expedite fee | You have printed proof of international travel within 14 calendar days, or need a foreign visa and travel within 28 calendar days. Not available if you renew online |
| Step | Allow |
|---|---|
| Your application reaching the State Department by mail | Up to 2 weeks (you can pay for faster shipping) |
| Your new passport reaching you | Up to 2 weeks, or 1 to 3 days with $26.87 return delivery |
Good to know
- Total time = processing time plus mailing time. Plan for the total when you book travel.
- If you are eligible to renew, you can renew online or by mail. First-time applicants and children under 16 apply in person at an acceptance facility.
- The busiest season runs from late winter to summer. The State Department suggests applying between October and December, when it is less busy.
- Track your application at passportstatus.state.gov.
Children under 16
Both parents or legal guardians must appear in person with the child. If one cannot come, that parent can sign Form DS-3053, Statement of Consent, in front of a notary or passport acceptance agent. The consent is valid for 90 days from the date it is signed.
Official sources
- US Department of State: Get Your Processing Time (last updated Oct 5, 2026)
- US Department of State: Get Your Passport Fast (last updated Sep 30, 2026)
- US Department of State: Make an appointment at a passport agency (urgent travel: 14 days, 28 days with a foreign visa, $60 expedite fee)
- US Department of State: Form DS-3053, Statement of Consent (PDF, read directly)
Planning a trip around these rules?
A custom guide puts the deadlines that matter for your dates into one "book first" list.
Order a custom guide