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Current processing times
| Service | Processing time | Extra cost |
|---|---|---|
| Routine | 4–6 weeks | None |
| Expedited | 2–3 weeks | $60 |
| Urgent travel (within 14 days) | Appointment at a passport agency | Proof of travel needed |
Processing time starts when the State Department receives your application, not when you mail it. It can take up to 2 weeks for your application to arrive and another 2 weeks for your passport to reach you after it's mailed. That's why a routine application can take around 8 to 10 weeks door to door.
The quietest time to apply
The State Department says its busiest period is late winter to summer and recommends applying between October and December when it's less busy. If you have a spring or summer trip, now is a good time.
The most common avoidable delay: the photo
The State Department says unacceptable photos are the number one reason applications are put on hold. A rejected photo means a letter, a new photo and weeks of extra waiting. Check yours first with the free passport photo checker, or take a new one with the photo maker.
Ways to speed it up
- Pay for expedited service ($60).
- Pay for 1–2 day return delivery (a separate optional fee, about $22).
- If you travel within 14 days, book an appointment at a passport agency and bring proof of travel.
- Online renewal is routine-only: it can't be expedited. See online renewal.
Questions
How long does a US passport take in 2026?
Routine processing takes 4–6 weeks and expedited 2–3 weeks, plus up to 2 weeks of mailing each way.
How much does it cost to expedite a passport?
$60 on top of the normal fees. Faster return delivery is a separate optional fee.
What is the fastest way to get a passport?
If you travel within 14 days, make an appointment at a passport agency with proof of travel.
Sources
Checked on 4 Nov 2026. Prices and rules change; always confirm with the official source before you apply. SnapToSubmit is an independent service, not a government website.