Do I need an appointment to apply for a passport?
Short answer
Do I need an appointment to apply for a passport?
It depends on the facility. Some passport acceptance facilities accept walk-ins, while others require or strongly recommend appointments. Post offices, clerks of court, libraries, and other government offices set their own policies.
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Actionable steps, requirements, and tools to move forward.
Key takeaways
- Some facilities accept walk-ins; others require appointments.
- Appointments are often required at busy post offices.
- You can check facility details on PassportOffices.com for published policies.
- Regional passport agencies always require appointments.
- Arrive with a complete application to avoid being turned away.
Full answer
Acceptance facilities are not run by PassportOffices.com or the Department of State directly. Each facility sets its own hours, appointment rules, and services. Our directory shows whether a location requires appointments based on published information.
If a facility accepts walk-ins, arrive early in the day to avoid long lines. Bring a completed application, photo, citizenship evidence, ID, and payment. Incomplete applications may not be accepted.
Regional passport agencies are different: they only see travelers with urgent international travel and only by appointment. Call 1-877-487-2778 to request one.