Let’s face it; the world today is more hectic than ever. People are traveling around the globe more often and, many times, on shorter notice. Of course, they all need passports and if the time comes when one’s expired or lost or even stolen, what to know about urgent passport procedures can come in handy. After all, it would be a shame to miss out on a trip because a passport couldn’t be obtained in time.

The first thing to understand when it comes to getting a passport quickly is that there are many express passport services companies doing business on the Internet. In addition, the US State Department, which runs the passport program, has a website set up to help. These can assist in getting a passport issued extremely quickly, so make use of them whenever possible.

Keep in mind that normal processing time for a passport that is requested to be issued in a hurry is usually from two to three weeks. This is via an expedited service that includes overnight delivery to and from one of the US passport processing centers. For those who need a passport in a seriously short amount of time – for example, within one day – getting one can be accomplished, though it will take some work.

For passports that need to be obtained in a day or two, there are many ways of working with an express expediter, for one. For another, traveling to a regional passport servicing center is another. With 14 of them spread around the country (three in the Midwest and several on both coasts, including Los Angeles, New York City and Washington DC), one should be relatively nearby.

In order to obtain an urgent passport, if that’s what’s needed, outside of using an express service, an appointment at a regional center is going to be required. The State Department has a toll-free number set up for scheduling of such appointments. It’s a very good idea when making an appointment, to try to make it as early in the day as possible. Passport processing can take over five hours in many cases.

Understand that most passport agency or regional processing centers don’t have facilities for taking passport photos. There are more than a few businesses, however, that can produce instant photos. This can even include many larger US postal service centers or offices. Showing up without photos can delay passport processing for several days, so keep that in mind.

Always keep in mind that there are certain documentary requirements. For one, bring the right application form. For another, make sure to bring proof of identity and citizenship. Usually, security regulations mandate the provision of some sort of official birth certificate or certificate of citizenship. Make sure to check the State Department website for other acceptable documents.

Given the nature of travel these days, especially as it relates to the global economy, it just may be the case that a passport will be needed at some point or another in time. If an urgent U S passport requirement arises, remember that they are best obtained through either an expediting service or by traveling to one of 14 regional American passports centers spread across the United States.