Many travelers think they have remembered every detail for their international trip. Then they realize that they have forgotten to obtain or renew their most important document, their passport. Fortunately, passport expediting options are available so that travelers can have their documents in time for international travel. Travelers can choose to expedite on their own or to work with an expediting agency.

1st Time Applicants

Applicants obtaining documentation for the first time have to apply in-person. Applicants should fill out Form DS-11 but should wait to sign the form until directed to do so by the Acceptance Agent. Travelers must also provide proof of U. S. Citizenship and appropriate identification, such as a driver’s license or government-issued identification. Applicants, in addition, must submit photocopies of their identifying documents, pay the appropriate fee and provide an appropriate photo.

Minors

Minors under 16 are governed by separate procedures. Minors provide proof of citizenship and fill out Form DS-11, just like adults. In addition, minors must prove that they are related to parents by bringing in a birth certificate with parents’ names printed on the document. Parents then submit their own identification and photocopies of that identification before paying the processing fee and providing the minor’s photo.

Delivery Methods

Applicants have the option of renewing in-person or via mail. To renew, applicants provide Form DS-82 and their undamaged U. S. Passport. According to the State Department, people should utilize a delivery method that can be traced and should use a large envelope for their documents. If original documents are damaged, applicants will have to renew in-person.

Time Restraits

First-time applicants who are expediting their documents should call their regional agency. Setting up an appointment at the regional agency is also a good idea if the applicant needs a visa in less than four weeks or travels in less than two weeks. Agencies will strive to provide documents before they are needed but applicants must do their part by bringing their required documentation with them when they attend their appointment.

Help Through The Mail

Mail-in applications can also be expedited. The State Department recommends that applicants pay for two-way overnight delivery to ensure quick processing. The outside of the envelope must be marked “Expedite.” The State Department website provides information about current processing times for expedited passports via mail but if these times will not get the renewal to the applicant in time for the trip, the applicant should make an in-person appointment.

Agencies Can Help

For some people, jumping through all of the hoops of the application process sounds tiresome. You have the option of using expediting agencies to move their documents through the application process quickly. Travelers will find many agencies online, but they should take the time to verify the phone number of each agency by calling it. If the agency’s phone number is not legitimate, then travelers should not send documents to that company.

When travelers forget about their passports until the date arises it can normally incite panic. However, there are many services out there that aid in pass port expediting related issues such as adding American pass port pages and renewals. So, people should be on top of their passport maintenance, but it doesn’t have to be a disaster.