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Frequently Asked Questions
General Passport Questions
How long does it typically take to obtain a passport?
Standard passport processing via the Post Office generally takes around 6 to 8 weeks. For faster service, the expedited option available through the Post Office reduces the timeframe to 2 to 3 weeks at an additional cost of $60. Alternatively, one can opt for same-day processing by making an appointment at a regional passport agency. PassportExpress.us can get the passport for you in as fast as 48 hours.
How fast is Passport Express Urgent Passport service?
The Urgent Service processes your passport within 5 business days. This timeframe does not include the days required for mailing your documents and receiving your passport via overnight shipping back to you. For example, if your documents are sent Fedex priority overnight Monday, they are typically processed starting Tuesday, and sent back to you on Thursday Fedex Priority overnight for delivery by 10:30 AM Friday.
What is a passport?
A passport is an official document issued by the government that verifies an individual's identity and nationality, allowing them to travel internationally and re-enter the United States after traveling abroad.
Can assistance be provided if I've already submitted my passport application directly to the passport agency?
Unfortunately - No.
Once you have submitted your passport application directly to the US Passport Agency, we are unable to provide assistance. You must contact the National Passport Information Center at (888) 442-4465 for support.
Is a passport necessary for cruise travel?
Most prominent cruise lines highly recommend carrying a passport. Having a passport allows you to fly back to the U.S. from a foreign port in case of emergencies and is also necessary if you need to fly from the U.S. to catch your cruise at a foreign port due to missed embarkation.
What is the Letter of Authorization?
The Letter of Authorization permits designated passport couriers to submit your passport application on your behalf. This letter must be signed by you as required by the United States Passport Agency to release your new or updated passport. You must list the Courier company name on this document.
What is the use of a passport card?
A passport card is a compact, wallet-sized card that allows entry into the U.S. from Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Bermuda via land and sea routes but not by air. This card is especially practical for those who frequently travel across U.S. borders by land or sea. It is not valid for international air travel or entry into other international destinations.
Can a military passport be used for personal vacation travels?
A no-fee military (brown) passport is exclusively for official duty travel overseas. For personal travels, you must use a regular-fee tourist (blue) passport. If you are in need of a passport urgently for personal travel, consider asking about military discounts. Thank you for your service.
Is obtaining a passport guaranteed when using your expedited service?
We guarantee that we will submit your application for expedited processing. It is important to note there are certain factors beyond our control that may delay or interrupt this process. These can include, but are not limited to, owing child support or back taxes, having a felony-related travel restriction, or lacking the required identification. When using our service, we are notified right away if there is an issue and are able to correct it. Standard post office processing typically notifies applicants of issues by mail after 3 weeks.
New Adult Passport Questions
Why do I need to appear in person?
If you are utilizing a service like PassportExpress.us you only need to visit a Passport Acceptance Agent at a local post office or county clerk’s office. This visit is for identity verification (do not sign the application beforehand). The Acceptance Agent (AA) will then seal your documents, which you can send to the expediting service. Find a local Passport Acceptance Facility here: http://iafdb.travel.state.gov/
How should I send my photos to your service?
You should send your application materials and photos via Fedex shipping.
What is the validity period of a U.S. passport?
Passports Issued at age 16 or older: Valid for 10 years.
Passport Issued at age 15 or younger: Valid for 5 years.
What if I was adopted and don't have a birth certificate?
If you were adopted and lack a birth certificate, you must submit your adoption papers. If applying for an adopted child’s passport, you need to provide identification verifying your status as the adoptive parent.
Where can I get a copy of my birth certificate?
Online: Order a certified copy of your birth certificate through VitalChek’s express service at https://www.vitalchek.com/.
In Person or Call: Visit or contact the Vital Statistics office in the state or county of your birth. Most offices offer in-person pickup or overnight delivery options.
Previous Passport Holders: If you've previously had a passport, you can request a file search by the Department of State for a $150 fee, which will not delay your passport processing.
What if I lack a driver's license for proof of identity?
Without a primary form of identification like a driver's license, military ID, or state ID card, obtaining a U.S. passport can be challenging. More information on acceptable forms of ID can be found here: https:/passportexpress.us/proof-of-identity/
Can my passport application be denied?
Passport applications can be denied or rejected for reasons including incomplete applications, missing documents such as a birth certificate or proper photographs, or incorrect fees. Additionally, denial can occur due to outstanding child support payments, unpaid federal taxes exceeding $50,000, outstanding felony warrants, or certain felony convictions restricting international travel. The Department of State may also request additional documents at its own discretion.
How do I claim U.S. Citizenship if my parents were naturalized?
To claim U.S. citizenship through a parent's naturalization, submit the parent’s Certificate(s) of Naturalization, your foreign birth certificate, and proof of your admission to the United States for permanent residence.
I was born abroad and am a naturalized citizen, can I obtain a U.S. passport?
Yes, as a naturalized citizen born abroad, you are eligible for a U.S. passport. You must submit your original naturalization certificate with your application, and your documents will be returned with your new passport.
Adult Passport Renewal Questions
Where can I find the expiration date on my passport?
The expiration date of your passport is located on the data page alongside your full name and photograph. Look for the phrase "Date of expiration/Date d'expiration/Fecha de caducidad," followed by the date formatted as day/month/year directly below this label. This is your passport's expiration date. A visual reference is provided below.
Can I renew a child passport?
No, passports issued to children under 16 are valid for only 5 years and cannot be renewed. A new passport application must be filed for each renewal until they reach 16. For expedited processing of a child’s passport, please use our specific "child passport" service for minors under 18, noting special requirements for ages 16 and 17.
How should I send my passport photos to you?
Include your passport photos with your application and other documents when you send them via Fedex overnight shipping.
When should I renew my passport?
The U.S. State Department advises renewing your passport about nine months before it expires, as many countries require your passport to be valid for at least six months beyond your date of travel. Standard processing times are 6-8 weeks, but if your passport has less than six months validity and you have imminent travel plans, consider using our expedited service for faster renewal.
Can I renew a damaged passport?
No. If your passport has substantial damage, such as water damage, torn or detached pages, unauthorized markings, or a loose cover, it cannot be renewed. You must apply for a new passport and submit a statement explaining the damage.
Can I renew a temporary passport issued abroad?
No. Only permanent 10-year passports can be renewed. If you have a temporary passport issued abroad, you will need to apply for a new passport, checking the issue and expiration dates on your passport's data page.
Am I allowed to use an old photo for my new passport?
No, you must provide a recent photo taken within the last 6 months for your new passport. The Department of State strictly enforces this rule to ensure that the photo accurately reflects your current appearance. Professional photo services like those offered at our locations, CVS or Walgreens are recommended.
Will my new passport have the same number as my old one?
No, each new passport is issued with a unique number. Your new passport will have a different number from any previously issued passport.
Can I travel with a valid visa in an expired passport?
Sometimes. While some countries may permit you to travel with both your expired passport (containing a valid visa) and a new valid passport, it is crucial to confirm with the destination country’s embassy or consulate before traveling.
Will I receive my old passport back after renewal?
Yes, your old passport will be returned to you with a cancellation mark, unless it is deemed too damaged. It may be mailed back separately from your new passport and should be kept as proof of your U.S. citizenship.
How long does it take to renew a passport by mail?
You can renew your passport by mail with three processing options:
- 6-8 weeks using standard processing through the post office.
- 3 weeks using expedited processing through the post office.
- Using PassportExpress.us we can expedite as fast as 48 hours. Call us for availability.
How do I renew my passport at the Post Office?
While you cannot directly renew your passport at the Post Office, you can submit your renewal application there to be mailed to the National Passport Processing Center. Choose standard or expedited processing, or use PassportExpress.us we can expedite as fast as 48 hours. Call us for availability.
What is the required passport validity for international travel?
Most countries require that your passport be valid for at least six months beyond the conclusion of your trip. If your passport will expire sooner, you will need to renew it before traveling.
What if my name has changed?
If your passport was issued less than a year ago and you need a name change, use Form DS-5504. For passports issued more than a year ago, apply for a renewal using the new name, submitting a court order or marriage certificate indicating the name change along with your renewal application and other necessary documents.
Lost, Stolen, Damaged Passport Questions
Do I need to appear in person for my passport if you are expediting it?
Without Expeditor: Yes, you must appear in person if not using an expeditor.
Using an Expeditor: If using a service like PassportExpress.us, you only need to visit a local Passport Acceptance Agent at a post office or county clerk for identity verification. Do not sign the application until you are in their presence. The agent will seal your documents, which you will then send to the expediting service. Locate a Passport Acceptance Facility near you at http://iafdb.travel.state.gov/.
I can't find my passport; can I still travel internationally?
No. To travel internationally, you must possess a valid passport. If your passport is lost, you need to replace it before traveling.
Can I use a photocopy of my passport for international travel?
No. A photocopy of your passport is not acceptable for international travel. You must have the actual valid passport book.
What should I do if my passport is lost but still valid?
If your valid passport is lost, you cannot simply renew it. It must be reported as lost, and you will need to apply for a new one to protect your identity.
I found my passport after reporting it lost; can I still use it?
No. Once a passport is reported lost or stolen, it is invalidated and cannot be used for travel. You will need to apply for a new one.
What if I haven't received my passport in the mail yet?
If your passport hasn’t arrived in the mail, you have 90 days from the issue date to report its non-receipt. If it's not reported within this period, you'll need to reapply and pay the full fee again. If urgent, PassportExpress.us can expedite a new passport for you.
What do I do if I lose my passport while abroad?
If you lose your passport overseas, contact the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate immediately. Having a copy of your passport’s information page will help expedite the issuance of a temporary passport. Once back in the U.S., you can contact services like PassportExpress.us to extend this for the full 10-year validity.
How should I send my passport photos if using your service?
For expedited processing through our service, include your photos with your application and documents sent via overnight shipping.
My child’s passport is lost; how do I replace it?
To replace a lost child’s passport, apply for a new child passport and include a statement regarding the lost passport as part of your application.
How do I replace my passport if I've changed my name and lost my passport?
Apply using the lost passport process and include proof of your legal name change, such as an original or certified copy of your marriage certificate or divorce decree.
What if my expired passport is lost? Can I still renew it?
You cannot renew an expired passport if it is lost. Instead, you'll need to apply using the lost passport service, which includes submitting a statement (DS-64) explaining the circumstances of the loss.
What should I do if I'm unsure whether my passport was lost or stolen?
If you're uncertain whether your passport was lost or stolen, proceed with the lost passport service and provide details in the section of the application that asks for a statement regarding a lost passport.
Child Passport Questions
Do children need U.S. passports for international travel?
All U.S. citizens, including infants and newborns, must have a passport to travel internationally by air. This requirement applies regardless of age. If you need assistance obtaining a new child passport or updating an existing one, PassportExpress.us can help.
Is it necessary for me to appear in person with my child for passport services?
Without Expeditor: Yes, personal appearance is required if you are not using an expeditor.
Using an Expeditor: If you are using a service such as PassportExpress.us, you and your child need only visit a Passport Acceptance Agent at a local post office or county clerk's office for identity verification. Remember not to sign the application until you are in front of the agent. The agent will then seal your documents, which you can send to us for expediting. Find a nearby Passport Acceptance Facility at http://iafdb.travel.state.gov/.
Can I sign my young child's passport application?
Yes, if your child is too young to sign the application, you as a parent will sign on their behalf at the Passport Acceptance Agent's direction.
How should I take a passport photo of my baby?
For babies, passport photos should be 2x2 inches, taken within the last 6 months. Ensure your baby is facing forward and looking at the camera against a white or off-white background. If unable to sit up, the photo can be taken lying down on a white sheet. Aim for a moment when your baby's eyes are open, without crying, and ensure no other objects or persons, including hands or arms, are in the photo. No hats, headgear, baby bonnets or pacifiers are allowed. The baby must be the only thing in the picture. No Car seats.
What if one parent cannot be present at the time of application?
If one parent is unable to be present, they can complete the Parental Consent Form DS-3053 in front of a notary and submit it along with their ID. This form allows for the application process to proceed without their physical presence.
What if the other parent is uncontactable?
If you cannot contact the other parent, fill out Form DS-5525, "Statement of Exigent/Special Family Circumstances," explaining the situation. If you have sole legal custody, provide the relevant court documents to prove this status.
How do I handle passport applications if my child was adopted?
If you have an amended birth certificate listing you as the parent, submit that. If not, you'll need to provide the adoption papers along with identification that establishes you as the adoptive parent.
What if a parent is deceased or has been declared legally incompetent?
Provide a death certificate for a deceased parent or documentation of legal incompetence. If both parents are deceased or declared incompetent, you must also submit a court order that awards you custody or permits international travel, or an adoption decree naming you.
Can I renew my child's passport?
Passports issued to children under 16 are valid for 5 years and cannot be renewed like adult passports. A new application is necessary each time until the child turns 16. Use the "child passport" service for minors under 18, noting special provisions for ages 16 and 17.
What is required if my child was born overseas?
For a child born abroad to U.S. parents, use a Consular Report of Birth Abroad (FS-240) as proof of citizenship. If the child was adopted abroad by U.S. parents, apply using the adoption decree and a copy of both parents' U.S. birth certificates as proof of citizenship.
Does my child need a passport for travel to Canada or Mexico by land or sea?
Children under 16 traveling by land or sea from Canada or Mexico can use a birth certificate, Consular Report of Birth Abroad, Naturalization Certificate, or Passport Card. This also applies to group travel involving children under 19 (traveling with a school group, religious group, social or cultural organization, or sports team). All air travel requires a valid U.S. passport for both adults and children.
How can both parents participate in the passport application if one is absent?
Utilize the DS-3053 Parental Consent Form, which the absent parent should sign in the presence of a notary and submit with a photocopy of their ID to facilitate the application process without their direct presence.
Passport Photo Questions
What kind of paper should passport photos be printed on?
Passport photos should be printed on either matte or glossy photo-quality paper.
Do passport photos need to be in color?
Yes, all passport photos must be in full color.
How recent should the passport photos be?
Passport photos must be taken no more than six months prior to the submission of the application.
What are the size requirements for passport photos?
Passport photos should be exactly 2 inches by 2 inches.
What is the required pose for passport photos?
The photo must capture a clear, frontal view of the traveler’s full face. The subject should be dressed in normal street attire, without any hats or glasses, against a plain white or off-white background. They should maintain a neutral expression with their mouth closed and eyes open, looking directly at the camera. The photo must be in focus.
How large should the head be in the photo?
The head should measure between 1 inch and 1-3/8 inches from the bottom of the chin to the top of the head and occupy about 50% of the photo area. It should be centered and not tilted in any direction.
Is it permissible to wear hats or religious headgear in the photo?
Hats or headgear should not be worn unless they are part of religious attire worn daily. If so, a signed statement verifying daily wear for religious reasons must accompany the application. The face must remain fully visible and not obscured by the headgear.
Can eyeglasses be worn in the passport photo?
No, eyeglasses must be removed for passport photos. The US Department of State does not allow eyeglasses in passport photos to avoid delays in processing.
Are sunglasses or tinted glasses allowed in the photo?
Sunglasses or tinted lenses are generally not permitted unless medically required. In such cases, a medical certificate may need to be provided.
Can work uniforms be worn in the photo?
No, uniforms or clothing resembling uniforms should be avoided. Regular street clothes should be worn, unless the attire is religious clothing worn daily.
Can a parent or guardian be in the photo with a minor child?
No, only the minor child should appear in the photo. There should be no other people, hands, or supports visible in the frame.
Are photos from recent driver licenses or other documents acceptable?
No, passport photos must be original and not copies or scans of existing photos. Photos also must not be digitally altered to change the traveler's appearance.
Are casual snapshots, magazine photos, or photos from a vending machine acceptable?
No, these types of photos are not suitable for passport applications due to quality and compliance issues.
Can passport photos be taken with a digital camera?
Yes, if the camera is of sufficient quality, with a resolution of at least 1 megapixel. However, it is recommended that photos be professionally printed to meet the necessary quality standards for passport applications.
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