What is an expedited passport?
Short answer
What is an expedited passport?
Expedited passport service is an optional add-on that costs $60 and typically reduces routine processing from 6–8 weeks to 2–3 weeks. You can request it by mail with Form DS-82 or at an acceptance facility with Form DS-11. It does not guarantee a specific return date.
Open the Expedited passport guide
Actionable steps, requirements, and tools to move forward.
Key takeaways
- Expedited service costs $60.
- Typical timeline: about 2–3 weeks after receipt.
- Request it with DS-82 by mail or DS-11 in person.
- It only speeds review, not the mailing time unless you also pay for 1–2 day return.
- For travel within 14 days, use a regional agency appointment instead.
Full answer
Expedited service is best when you need a passport sooner than the routine window but are not traveling within the next two weeks. It is available for both new applications and renewals.
When applying by mail, write 'EXPEDITE' on the outside of the envelope and include the expedite fee with your application fee. When applying in person, tell the acceptance agent you want expedited service.
The 1–2 day return delivery fee is separate and only affects how your new passport is mailed back. It does not change processing speed.