How Long does it take to get a passport?

If you are applying for a new passport as a resident of the U.S. This will typically take 4-6 weeks from door to door for the standard service. The amount of time it takes also depends on the season. If you apply in the summer time it can take longer than another season usually up to 6 weeks or longer. You will have to apply in person if you do not have a previous passport that has not been damaged, a passport that was issued after 16 years of age, has been issued with in 15 years or was issued with the same name as you currently have.
 

If you really need your passport processed as fast as possible there is an express service that costs an additional $60 + delivery costs. The Expedited service will normally take 2 or 3 weeks from the time it is posted to the time you receive it. You can use a tracking service to get an up to date expected time of arrival of your passport. This estimated delivery time takes into account the postage times and is an estimate of how long before you have your new documents in hand.

Using a passport agency is an additional way to speed up your new passport processing  time. This is a similar method as the Expedited service but will require you to have evidence of traveling with in 2 weeks and or proof of the need of a foreign visa within 4 weeks. You must apply for this in person at one of the many passport agencies. You will be required to pay the same $60 fee.  You will need to book an appointment before hand.
 
There is an even faster way to get your passport but this will only be issued in the case of life or death emergencies. If you find yourself in a life or death travel emergency you will be able to apply for a new passport and get it issued when you are traveling with in 5 days or less. Most applicants will get their documents in 5 days. They will issue a passport card or book in less than five days if you need to travel before this time. You must show all your travel itinerary and proof of travel. Proof of travel must be presented as a hard copy or original document. They will not except documents shown on mobile or tablet devices.

 

Other methods to obtain a passport?

There are other methods to obtain a passport quickly through private services you might be able to get a passport in 24 hours or for a reasonable price within 10 days.

 

If you are a first time U.S. passport applicant

You will need to apply for the document in person.
If you are under 16 years of age you will need to:

• Complete all application forms.

• Present yourself in person with your parents or guardians.

• Show valid evidence of citizenship. You will need to present the original document of your birth certificates or another form of ID. The ID will need to be what the Official Government website says is valid.

• Show evidence of your relationship between your parents or guardians. You will need to present an original form of ID.

• Your parents or guardians must present valid IDs. Their IDs must be photocopied and submitted.

• You must have consent from your parents or guardians.

• Payment of the applications free.

• 1 passport sized photograph.     

More info from the official government website.

If you are applying from another country:

All Application forms are the same but the actual process and time frame will be different depending which country you apply from.
The first step is to contact your local U.S. embassy within what ever country you are staying. They will tell you what other documents you will need to process your application.
You will still need U.S. passport standard photographs.
Usually payments will be accepted in local currency or US dollars and some consulates will accept credit cards.

 

If your passport was lost or stolen:

You will need to report it as soon as possible. You can do this via telephone or mail. Please find all relevant contact info from your local authority.
Once the passport has been reported it will become invalid and can no longer be used.

Disclaimer

All information posted in this blog is advice. Always consult your local authorities or government about related issues and how best to proceed with regards to obtaining a passport.