There are a lot of different things that can go wrong with travel. The potential for disaster seems to double with international travel. Passport issues are just one of many potential problems that can afflict international travelers. This article, perfect for the forgetful traveler, will cover expedited US passport renewal.
We have all heard the set up before: someone has booked a trip and when it comes time to check their passport, they realize that it has expired and their whole trip is now in jeopardy. Believe it or not, there is no need to panic, even if the trip is right around the corner. There are ways to get a passport in just a few short weeks or even the blink of an eye if necessary.
While this situation is horrible, it is a great example of how passport renewal can help make everything better. As long as the person is literally not standing in line with their ticket, there is a way to get the passport in hand in time to make the trip. There is a fee for this service, but at least the vacation will not be ruined.
The beauty of passport renewal is that there is no need to have to wait in line. The whole process can be handled through the mail with little to no worries. The DS-82 form can be picked up at most post offices or downloaded right off the Internet. It will have to be filled out and then put in an envelope with the old passport and a new one will be on its way in about two months (sooner if the expedited service is paid for).
Since the old passport and copies of the current ID documents will be included in the package, it is best to take some extra measures to make sure that everything gets to its destination safely. First, it is recommended by the State Department that Tyvek packing is used for the contents. In addition to that, we recommend that overnight shipping is used with delivery confirmation for an added level of security.
When a passport is needed quicker than the standard order (about two months), it is recommended that expedited service is used. For anyone that is jammed up for time, the $60 fee is more than worth it. In addition to the extra service fee, there will also be the costs of expedited shipping.
The State Department estimates a two to three week turn around on expedited passport applications. Any applicant that needs a passport in less than two weeks, be it a renewal or new application, is encouraged to make an appointment at a Regional Passport Agency. Applicants that need to secure a foreign visa in less than four weeks are also encouraged to make an appointment.
There are so many things that can go wrong on a trip; it is a shame to add one more, like having an expired USA passport, that is our own fault. The glory of this mistake is that it is still very fixable, even up to the very last moment. Using expedited US passport renewal can literally turn that frown upside down and allow everyone to enjoy their trip as planned.
