How Long Does It Take to Get a Passport?
2026 processing times for routine, expedited, online renewal, and emergency appointments.
Times exclude mailing. Check travel.state.gov for current estimates — they update weekly.
Warning
Passport Processing Times — All Options
| Service type | Processing time | Extra cost |
|---|---|---|
| Routine (mail-in renewal) | 6–8 weeks | $0 extra |
| Routine (in-person, first-time) | 6–8 weeks | $0 extra |
| Online renewal | 6–8 weeks | $0 extra |
| Expedited (mail-in) | 2–3 weeks | +$60 |
| Expedited (in-person) | 2–3 weeks | +$60 |
| Regional agency appointment | Same day – 3 business days | +$60 expedite |
| Life-or-death emergency | Same day | No fee; documentation required |
Which Service Do You Need?
Standard processing fits your timeline. Apply now and check status at travel.state.gov. No extra fee required.
Pay the $60 expedite fee when you submit. Mail with Priority Mail Express and include a prepaid overnight return envelope. Do not use routine processing — 6–8 weeks may not be enough.
Book an appointment at a regional passport agency immediately at travel.state.gov. Bring proof of travel (flight itinerary). Expedite fee applies. Appointments are scarce — book as soon as you realize you need one.
Call 1-877-487-2778 to request an emergency appointment. Same-day and next-business-day appointments exist but are very limited. Have your flight itinerary and all application documents ready when you call.
What Affects Passport Processing Time
January through July is peak passport season. Processing times can double during this period. Apply in fall or winter for the shortest waits.
A missing document, wrong photo size, or unsigned form sends your application back — adding weeks. Double-check everything before mailing.
A non-compliant photo is the most common reason for application delays. The State Department returns your application with a note, and you must resubmit with a new photo. Learn more →
State Department processing times exclude postage. Standard first-class mail each way can add 1–2 weeks. Use Priority Mail Express to reduce this.
If your name has changed since your last passport, you must include a certified copy of your marriage certificate or court order. Missing documentation causes delays.
Expired passports over 15 years old, or passports issued before age 16, require a full new application (DS-11) in person — not a mail-in renewal (DS-82).
Don't Let Your Photo Delay Your Application
A non-compliant passport photo is the most common avoidable cause of application delays. The State Department returns applications with:
Tip
How to Check Your Passport Application Status
Visit travel.state.gov/passportstatus. Enter your last name, date of birth, and last 4 digits of your SSN. Status updates within 2 weeks of submission.
Call 1-877-487-2778, Monday–Friday, 8 AM–10 PM ET; Saturday–Sunday, 10 AM–3 PM ET. Automated system available 24/7.
If you have an in-person appointment at a regional agency, staff can give you a real-time status update during your visit.
Note
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Passport Processing Time FAQ
How long does it take to get a passport in 2026?
Routine passport processing takes 6–8 weeks in 2026. Expedited processing takes 2–3 weeks and costs an additional $60. If you have travel within 3 business days, you can request an emergency appointment at a regional passport agency for same-day or next-day service. Always check travel.state.gov for current processing times — they change frequently based on application volume.
How long does expedited passport processing take?
Expedited passport processing currently takes 2–3 weeks. The expedite fee is $60 in addition to the standard passport fee ($130 for a new adult passport book). You can request expedited service when submitting your application by checking the expedite box on the DS-82 or DS-11 form. For mail-in renewals, use overnight shipping and include a prepaid return envelope.
How long does an online passport renewal take?
Online passport renewals (through the State Department's online renewal system) currently take 6–8 weeks for routine processing. The online system is available to eligible adults renewing a 10-year passport issued after age 16. You upload a digital photo instead of mailing printed photos — this is the primary advantage of the online system alongside not having to mail your current passport.
Can I get a passport faster than 2–3 weeks?
Yes — if you have international travel within 3 business days (or a life-or-death emergency), you can book an in-person appointment at a regional passport agency. Regional agencies can issue passports same-day or within 1–2 business days. Appointments are required and fill up fast — book at travel.state.gov as soon as possible. The standard fees plus any expedite fee still apply.
How long does a first-time passport take?
First-time passports (using form DS-11) must be submitted in person at a passport acceptance facility. Processing times are the same as renewals: 6–8 weeks routine, 2–3 weeks expedited. First-time applicants cannot use the online renewal system. Allow extra time to gather required documents: proof of citizenship, photo ID, and two passport photos.
How do I check the status of my passport application?
Check your passport status online at travel.state.gov/passportstatus, by phone at 1-877-487-2778 (Monday–Friday, 8 AM–10 PM ET), or via the Passport Status Online tool with your last name, date of birth, and the last 4 digits of your Social Security number. Status typically updates within 2 weeks of submission.
Does passport processing time include mailing time?
No — the State Department's quoted processing times begin when they receive your application and end when they mail your passport. Add 1–2 weeks for incoming and outgoing mail if submitting by standard mail. Use Priority Mail Express or overnight shipping to minimize delays. For time-sensitive applications, include a prepaid overnight return envelope.
When should I apply for a passport before my trip?
Apply at least 3–4 months before your travel date to allow for routine processing plus mail time. If your trip is 4–8 weeks away, pay for expedited processing. If your trip is within 3 weeks, book an appointment at a regional passport agency immediately. Note: many countries require your passport to be valid for 6 months beyond your travel dates — renew early if your passport expires within 6 months.