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Finding the Right Proof of Travel to Expedite Your Passport

Home » Passports » How to Obtain a U.S. Passport

If you make plans to travel outside of the United States on short notice but do not have a passport, you will be required to find a Regional Passport Agency and apply for expedited passport service. These agencies and processing centers only attend to people who have documented plans to travel within fourteen days and do not have a passport (the threshold is extended to four weeks if a visa is required, also).

If you find yourself in a rush to get a passport expedited at one of these passport agencies, there will be certain documents you will need to present at the processing center to prove that your travel plans are legitimate. Without this evidence, you may find that you do not qualify for expedited service.

Click for reliable expedited passport courier service .

There are different types of proof of travel that are accepted for each of the three methods of travel – land, sea, and air. Ensuring you have the correct documentation will increase your odds of getting a passport quickly.

Travel by Air

If you will be traveling by air , there are several different options that are considered acceptable proof of travel:

• Flight itinerary e-mail – This is the most common proof of air travel people use. In most cases, simply printing the flight's confirmation email provides all the essential flight information the passport agency will need to verify your trip.
• Original tickets or boarding passes – Bringing a hard-copy of the tickets for your flight(s) will satisfy the passport agency's proof of travel requirements.
• E-tickets – A photocopy or printout of your electronic ticket is just as acceptable as an airline-issued paper ticket.
• Private air charter - If you are flying by a private plane, you will need to show the private air charter documentation on official letterhead as your proof of travel.

Travel by Land

When traveling by land to Canada , Mexico , or Central America by bus, train, or car, your proof of travel can be one of the following three:

• Hotel reservation confirmation – You can provide a copy of your hotel reservation confirmation that includes where you will be residing in the county you are traveling to as well as the dates of your stay.
• Tickets to an event - Providing tickets to an event during your stay in the country you plan to visit is considered viable proof by the passport agency.
• Official letter - If you are traveling for business or an organization, have them provide you with an official document outlining the key itinerary details of your trip. The letter should be on official letterhead.

Download Example Letters:

Travel by Sea

For those who are traveling by sea there are two ways you can show proof of imminent travel to the passport agency depending on the type of sea travel you have chosen:

• Cruise itinerary e-mail - For those who are taking part in a cruise that docks in foreign countries, you can provide the passport agent a copy of the e-mail that shows your itinerary.
• Private charter plan - If you are traveling on a private boat or yacht, you will need to provide the documents that show the boat charter plan.

Making the Right Choices for Your Passport Application

Whether you are traveling by land, sea, or air, you will need to provide sufficient evidence of your imminent travel plans in order to obtain an expedited passport at a regional agency . If for some reason you do not have these forms of proof, you should contact the nearest regional passport agency and discuss your options before making the trip there.

Note : The above documents are only required for those who need to expedite passports within two weeks or within four weeks if a visa is required regardless of how you plan to travel.

For those who choose to request expedited service by mail or require only standard processing, proof of travel is not required to obtain your passport. That said, expect at least 3 weeks turnaround time for expedited service by mail or 6-8 weeks for a standard, non-expedited application.

Not sure if you have the proper time or documentation for your last-minute trip? Opting to hire a registered passport expediting service can prove especially helpful. These professionals are able to lean on their unique skills and experiences to not only ensure your application paperwork is in order, but also help you get your passport quickly. In many cases, a registered passport courier can help you get a passport in your hands within 24-48 hours!

Top 5 Questions About Expedited Passport Couriers

1. How can you get a passport when you're in a hurry? 2. What exactly does a passport expediter do? 3. Are passport expediting services legitimate? 4. How can I identify a reliable passport expeditor? 5. Is expedited passport service worth it?

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• Passports, etc. - What to do now that you are a US citizen

Recent Experience with Expedited Passport Agencies

By NYBEtt May 1, 2021 in Passports, etc. - What to do now that you are a US citizen

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30 posts in this topic

Recommended posts, nybett   88.

Has anyone had experience getting an appointment at an expedited agency, with proof of travel? What time do appointments open up in the 2-week time frame?

Is the passport issued the same day? Is it acceptable to apply at a facility far away from you?

K1 Timeline:

7/18/2016 --> I-129F application sent

1/26/2017 --> K1 visa received

Adjustment of Status Timeline:

2/7/17 --> I-485, I-131, I-765 ( AOS +AP+ EAD ) application sent

8/18/2017--> green card received in mail

Removal of Conditions Timeline:

5/14/2019 --> I-751 application sent

10/2/2020 --> 10-year green card received in mail

Naturalization Timeline:

7/28/2020--> Submitted N-400 application online

2/12/2021--> Biometrics re-use letter received

4/30/2021--> Interview scheduled for 6/8/2021

6/8/2021-->  Approved during interview

6/21/2021-->  oath ceremony - officially US citizen

K1: 7/18/2016 --> 1/26/2017

AOS : 2/7/17 --> 8/18/2017

ROC:   5/14/2019 --> 10/2/2020

Naturalization: 7/28/2020--> 6/21/2021

Link to comment

Share on other sites, steveinbostoni130   3,343.

Expedited Agency?  Do you mean a private company that does expedited service or a US passport agency/office?

A private company can take your photo and submit your application for expedited service (with the extra fee) as overnight mail to the nearest US passport office.

This method takes 4-6 weeks for approval.

If you need Urgent travel - life or death emergency - then you can try to get an appointment at your passport office for 3 business day issuance.  They also have some limited appointment slots for urgent international business travel, for 3 business day processing.

https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/passports/get-fast.html

https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/passports/get-fast/passport-agencies.html

I saw some places advertise express 24 hour processing.  All they can do is submit your application and guarantee it would arrive to the US passport agency within 24 hours.  Then it is up to the US DOS to process and produce your passport, which is 4-6 weeks, plus 1-2 day express mail return.

20 minutes ago, SteveInBostonI130 said: Expedited Agency?  Do you mean a private company that does expedited service or a US passport agency/office?   A private company can take your photo and submit your application for expedited service (with the extra fee) as overnight mail to the nearest US passport office.   This method takes 4-6 weeks for approval.   If you need Urgent travel - life or death emergency - then you can try to get an appointment at your passport office for 3 business day issuance.  They also have some limited appointment slots for urgent international business travel, for 3 business day processing.   https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/passports/get-fast.html   https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/passports/get-fast/passport-agencies.html     I saw some places advertise express 24 hour processing.  All they can do is submit your application and guarantee it would arrive to the US passport agency within 24 hours.  Then it is up to the US DOS to process and produce your passport, which is 4-6 weeks, plus 1-2 day express mail return.  

Sorry for the confusion. I was using the terms "agency" and "facility" interchangeably. I was referring to a US passport agency/facility's expedited service (less than 3 business days) for urgent international travel plans (less than 4 weeks away), as outline here

My questions can likely only be answered by someone who has recently (past year) applied for a passport at on the of the expedited agencies/centers.

What time do appointments open up in the 2-week time frame? Currently my local office (NYC) does not have any appointments for the next two weeks, but other offices (Montpelier and Buffalo) have appointments available in 13 days. I assume appointments open up at at the 2-week mark, but what time does that occur? Or is that not necessarily the case?

Is it acceptable to apply at a facility far away from you? If so, would I need to return to pick up the passport or are they returned same day?

About 10 years ago my fiends needed to get their passports renewed for one of their sons.  They didn't check and one was going to expire before their trip home to Ireland (LPR parents, USC children).  They lived in PA, but visited me for a few days in MA to get the express renewal done in Portsmouth.  They went one morning for the appointment and were contacted the day after saying they could pick up the passports that afternoon.  So about 28-32 hrs turn-around.  

Gordo2   23

On 5/1/2021 at 7:22 AM, NYBEtt said: Sorry for the confusion. I was using the terms "agency" and "facility" interchangeably. I was referring to a US passport agency/facility's expedited service (less than 3 business days) for urgent international travel plans (less than 4 weeks away), as outline here   My questions can likely only be answered by someone who has recently (past year) applied for a passport at on the of the expedited agencies/centers.   What time do appointments open up in the 2-week time frame? Currently my local office (NYC) does not have any appointments for the next two weeks, but other offices (Montpelier and Buffalo) have appointments available in 13 days. I assume appointments open up at at the 2-week mark, but what time does that occur? Or is that not necessarily the case? Is it acceptable to apply at a facility far away from you? If so, would I need to return to pick up the passport or are they returned same day?

If you go through with this and get answers to your questions please do follow up.

I'm curious about this too.

46 minutes ago, Gordo2 said: If you go through with this and get answers to your questions please do follow up.   I'm curious about this too.

So far I've been able to determine the following:

-you can go any passport agency, since the website tells you to be aware of travel advisories

-it's unclear if you get the passport same day, but it is possible. the website says they will discuss delivery options with you at the appointment.

-I've been able to find appointments at certain locations up to 13 days in advance. However, I still haven't figured out what time the slots open up.

-All available appointments I've found so far are for locations far away from us.

I see your interview is scheduled first so if you also figure anything out before hand let us know!

34 minutes ago, NYBEtt said: So far I've been able to determine the following: -you can go any passport agency, since the website tells you to be aware of travel advisories -it's unclear if you get the passport same day, but it is possible. the website says they will discuss delivery options with you at the appointment. -I've been able to find appointments at certain locations up to 13 days in advance. However, I still haven't figured out what time the slots open up. -All available appointments I've found so far are for locations far away from us.   I see your interview is scheduled first so if you also figure anything out before hand let us know!

Will do. I have the oath ceremony mid-month and have a previously scheduled trip planned in early June. Just enough time to know that an expedited mailed request won't be fast enough.

Seattle is my closest passport agency and probably the only one I can get to since the others are in San Fran and LA. I don't see any openings though so I wonder how that would work.

Scandi   4,091

I don't think you can get an emergency appointment if your travel is 2 weeks out, I believe you need to show proof that you need to travel within 3 business days or so. And you need to call to get one, there's no online appointment system for that.

Expedited takes 4-6 weeks.

K-1: 12-22-2015 - 09-07-2016

AP: 12-20-2016 - 04-07-2017

EAD : 01-18-2017 - 05-30-2017

AOS : 12-20-2016 - 07-26-2017

ROC: 04-22-2019 - 04-22-2020 Naturalization: 05-01-2020 - 03-16-2021

U.S. passport: 03-30-2021 - 05-08-2021 En livstid i krig. Göteborg killed it. Epic: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WBs3G1PvyfM&ab_channel=Sabaton

21 hours ago, Scandi said: I don't think you can get an emergency appointment if your travel is 2 weeks out, I believe you need to show proof that you need to travel within 3 business days or so. And you need to call to get one, there's no online appointment system for that.   Expedited takes 4-6 weeks.

You can definitely make an appointment online, but it's difficult to snag one. Your appointment has to take place 3 business days before your travel but you can book the appointment up to two weeks out.

2 hours ago, NYBEtt said: You can definitely make an appointment online, but it's difficult to snag one. Your appointment has to take place 3 business days before your travel but you can book the appointment up to two weeks out.

I was just reading off of their website, for emergency passport it says to call them (in bold even). 

https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/passports/get-fast/emergencies.html

1 hour ago, Scandi said: I was just reading off of their website, for emergency passport it says to call them (in bold even).    https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/passports/get-fast/emergencies.html

Correct. That is for life-or-death emergencies though, which is different from "urgent" travel:

MJS2020   17

Perhaps not exactly on topic here but does anyone know how to apply for US Passport for the first time (DS-11) without USPS? It looks like USPS has no available time slots for appointments and I was wondering what would be the alternative to an USPS appointment? Passport Agencies (for expedited service) currently do not seem to have appointments either so I assume they won’t any time soon. 

I’ve found “Passport Acceptance Facilities” and they do not require appointments so I was wondering if I can go there (when the time comes haha) and apply for passport on site?

13 hours ago, MJS2020 said: Perhaps not exactly on topic here but does anyone know how to apply for US Passport for the first time (DS-11) without USPS? It looks like USPS has no available time slots for appointments and I was wondering what would be the alternative to an USPS appointment? Passport Agencies (for expedited service) currently do not seem to have appointments either so I assume they won’t any time soon.    I’ve found “Passport Acceptance Facilities” and they do not require appointments so I was wondering if I can go there (when the time comes haha) and apply for passport on site?

It depends on how soon you want your passport. Here in NY all appointments are also taken but they open up slots 4 weeks in advance in the morning. Its 7am and almost all slots available for June 8 (4 weeks from today) for my nearest post office. I'll bet it's the same for you too. 

1 hour ago, NYBEtt said: It depends on how soon you want your passport. Here in NY all appointments are also taken but they open up slots 4 weeks in advance in the morning. Its 7am and almost all slots available for June 8 (4 weeks from today) for my nearest post office. I'll bet it's the same for you too. 

Thank you for the reply. Yeah, the timeframes are weird. My travel date will be 3 weeks out from my oath ceremony. So it’s less than 4 weeks which is the minimum processing time for an expedited service but not “urgent” enough to qualify for the urgent travel category 😕

23 hours ago, MJS2020 said: Thank you for the reply. Yeah, the timeframes are weird. My travel date will be 3 weeks out from my oath ceremony. So it’s less than 4 weeks which is the minimum processing time for an expedited service but not “urgent” enough to qualify for the urgent travel category 😕

You actually might have a shot if you can get an appointment for the date of your oath ceremony. I've read instances where expedited passports arrive in 3 weeks. We are in a similar situation. Except we don't know when the oath date will be :S. At this point we'll likely have to postpone the trip or request the oath ceremony to take place after we return.

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The Top 5 Do’s and Don’ts of Expedited Passport Applications

• Sheldon Soper

You need a passport to travel internationally. But sometimes, the time to get your passport processed takes longer than you have. Luckily, there are multiple options for both expediting a new passport and expediting a passport renewal . Whatever your situation, you can get the documents you need so your travel plans don’t have to be put on hold.

If you’re looking to expedite your passport application, it’s essential to know the do’s and don’ts to ensure a smooth and efficient experience. In this guide, we’ll provide you with valuable passport expediting tips based on over 20 years of helping travelers like you navigate the passport application process.

5 Do’s for Successful Expedited Passport Applications

1. do be sure to gather all the necessary documents.

Before applying for an expedited passport renewal, make sure you have all the required documents ready.

These typically include:

• Your current passport (for renewals)
• Proof of U.S. citizenship (for new passports)
• Proof of identity
• A passport-sized photo
• A completed application form
• * Proof of a legal name change

*If applicable

In almost all cases, you will need original copies of the documents listed above. Photocopies are not acceptable.

If you are applying at a regional passport agency , you will also need proof of your imminent travel needs . Without it, you may not qualify for the fastest possible service.

Double-checking you have the correct documents will save you time and potential delays in getting your passport.

2. DO Complete the Application Form Correctly

Filling out the passport renewal application form accurately is crucial. Avoid common mistakes such as missing information, using incorrect data, or using white-out on the form. Precise completion will prevent processing issues.

This is one of the often-overlooked benefits of getting expedited service through a registered passport expediter . As part of their service, these professionals help you ensure everything is in order with your application and supporting materials before they are submitted.

3. DO Follow Passport Photo Guidelines Closely

Passport photos must adhere to specific guidelines , including size, background, and expression.

There are ways to express your own personal style and get a passport photo you’ll love , but don’t get your application denied because you are sacrificing compliance for vanity.

Ignoring passport photo guidelines can and will lead to rejections and delays. Always be sure to have the appropriate photos taken before submitting your application.

4. DO Choose the Appropriate Expedited Service

There are different expedited processing times for you to choose from based on your urgency.

When applying for expedited service at a post office or for an expedited passport renewal by mail , you can expect to wait several weeks to get your new passport. However, applying at a regional agency can reduce your wait to anywhere from 8 business days to same-day service .

Top passport expediters typically offer varying levels of service depending on how fast you need your passport. Many are able to get you a passport as fast or faster than you might be able to by visiting a regional agency on your own (but without you needing to make or attend the appointment yourself).

Once you’ve decided you need expedited service, be sure you are choosing the service option that best aligns with your travel plans.

5. DO Schedule an Appointment (if necessary):

Depending on your location, you may need to schedule an appointment for your passport application. If you are getting a new passport at a passport office, you will likely be making an appointment at a local U.S. Post Office location. Planning ahead and securing an appointment can save you time and ensure you have the necessary assistance.

Walk-in passport appointments are possible, but we don’t recommend it. In our experience, trying to get an expedited passport without an appointment rarely results in getting the travel document you need when you need it.

In most cases, a passport expediter will be able to offer you the best hybrid of speed, cost, and convenience.

5 Don’ts to Steer Clear of in Expedited Passport Applications

1. don’t procrastinate.

Avoid the temptation to delay your passport renewal until the last minute. Applying well in advance ensures you have your passport ready when you need it. The longer you wait, the more stress and costs will pile up.

If you do need to get a passport faster than routine service, be sure to err on the side of caution and opt for the expediting option that affords you the most breathing room. You don’t want to risk having to delay or cancel travel plans because you are still waiting for your passport to arrive.

2. DON’T Forget to Check Eligibility

Ensure you meet the eligibility criteria for expedited passport renewal before applying. If you don’t qualify for expedited services, applying for them can lead to unnecessary complications.

For instance, if you visit a regional passport agency without proof of your urgent travel need, you will likely be turned away without being given the chance to submit your application—let alone expedite it.

3. DON’T Submit Incomplete Applications

Submitting an incomplete application can result in processing delays. You can’t submit your application and supporting materials piecemeal; they all need to be properly completed and compiled as part of your application package.

Carefully review all forms and documents before you mail them or bring them to your passport appointment. Ensure nothing is missing or incorrect.

4. DON’T Make These Common Passport Photo Mistakes

Passport photos must meet specific guidelines, such as size, background, and expression. To help, we have compiled a guide to 9 of the most common reasons a passport photo gets rejected and how to avoid them.

Remember, these are hard and fast rules set by the U.S. Department of State, not suggestions. Neglecting these regulations will lead to passport application rejections and delays.

5. DON’T Ignore Application Fee Details:

Every passport application requires very specific payment amounts and methods. Expedited applications require additional fees, as do passport expediting services and expedited mailing options.

Be sure to check our Routine and Expedited Fees Guide to verify the latest application prices as well as what payment methods are acceptable for your chosen application method.

Incorrect payment or failure to include the appropriate fees will result in delays and complications.

Bonus Tips for a Smooth Expedited Passport Process

5 tips just weren’t enough. Here are two more of our best pieces of advice for applicants who need to get a passport fast.

Use a Reliable Passport Service

Consider using a reputable passport processing service that specializes in expedited applications. These services can streamline the application process and offer expert guidance throughout.

Furthermore, when you consider how much it costs to get a passport at a regional agency yourself – including travel, lodging, food, and time off from work – you will likely find that using a passport courier actually saves you money.

Track Your Passport Application:

Keep tabs on your passport application’s status by using the tracking tools provided by the U.S. Department of State or your passport expediting service. This can help alert you to any delays and help ease any anxiety about the processing timeline for your new travel documents.

For more information, be sure to check out our step-by-step guide to tracking your passport status .

You’re Ready to Expedite

Expedited passport applications can be a lifesaver when you have urgent travel plans. By following the do’s and don’ts outlined in this guide, you’ll increase your chances of a successful and stress-free application process.

For more detailed information and resources, please visit our guides to expediting a new passport and expediting a passport renewal .

About the Author: For over 20 years, the U.S. Passport Service Guide team has helped hundreds of thousands of travelers with their travel document questions and shared advice about how to make traveling abroad simpler, safer, and more enjoyable.

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U.S. Passport Renewal Guide

Start your travels in the best possible way! Download our U.S. Passport Renewal Guide now to swiftly navigate the renewal process with expert tips and avoid any travel hiccups. Click below for your ticket to seamless travels!

How to Expedite a Child's Passport

Download our comprehensive guide to expedite a child's passport quickly and efficiently. Get step-by-step instructions, required documents, an application checklist, and useful tips. Just click below:

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Embark on your next journey with ease using our U.S. Passport Renewal Guide. This essential tool simplifies the renewal process, offering expert advice to avoid common pitfalls. Ensure smooth, uninterrupted travels with our guide.

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How to Get an Expedited Passport

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Say you've booked the perfect international getaway just to find that your passport has expired. Or, perhaps you didn't realize that your travel destination requires that your passport have at least six months of validity. Whatever your case may be, Americans have a few options for getting an expedited passport — whether you're renewing it or applying for a new one.

Here's what you need to know about your options for getting a passport on short notice.

» Learn more: The guide to different types of U.S. passports

How long does it take to get an expedited passport?

U.S. passport processing times vary depending on the current demand for new passports and passport renewals. The currently posted timelines for routine and expedited processing are as follows:

Routine processing: Six to eight weeks.

Expedited processing: Two to three weeks.

Keep in mind that these are just the processing time once your passport application is received. Make sure to factor in that it can take up to two weeks for the State Department to receive your mailed application and up to another two weeks for you to receive your completed passport. You can shorten this mailing time by sending your application by express mail and paying for faster return shipping.

It's worth noting that current passport processing times are far higher than in the past. For reference, in December 2019, routine passport requests only took six to eight weeks. Expediting your passport application slashed that processing time to just two to three weeks — or just eight days if you renewed at a passport agency.

While we wait for processing times to return to those levels, here are your options for expediting your U.S. passport application.

» Learn more: Need a passport for a trip? Give yourself a big time cushion

How to expedite a U.S. passport application

The best option to expedite your passport application will depend on how quickly you need your passport. The U.S. Department of State currently offers three types of expedited passport application options: Expedited, Urgent Travel, and Emergency.

Here's a breakdown of each option and how to take advantage of each one.

Expedited passport applications

Submit an expedited passport application request if you're traveling in a few months and the current up-to-11-week standard processing time would cut it too close. The process is otherwise identical to a routine application, simply requiring an additional $60 fee on top of standard passport fees.

New passport applicants can submit an expedited application at a passport acceptance facility. Travelers renewing a passport can submit an expedited renewal application by mail.

Note that the State Department has a money-back guarantee on expedited requests. You can apply for a refund of your $60 expedited fee if the agency doesn't process your application within:

35 business days (excluding weekends and holidays) of receiving an application submitted on Oct. 2, 2023 or later.

45 business days (excluding weekends and holidays) of receiving an application submitted on or before Oct. 1, 2023.

Remember to factor in mailing times when figuring whether or not an expedited application will get you your passport in time to travel. If you want to shorten the overall processing time, send your application to the State Department by express mail. You can also include an extra $19.53 with your application fees for expedited 1-2 day return shipping of your completed passport.

» Learn more: How much does a passport cost?

Urgent travel passport appointments

If an expedited passport application isn't fast enough, you'll need to apply for an in-person appointment at a passport agency. You can only schedule an urgent travel application if you haven't yet applied for a passport and you have international travel booked within 14 days.

You can also get an urgent travel appointment if you've applied for a passport but still haven't received it and your travel date is quickly approaching. In this case, you can only schedule an appointment within five calendar days of your international departure date.

To determine your eligibility, you must provide your travel dates and destinations when calling for an urgent travel appointment. Then, bring printed proof of your international travel to your passport appointment. If you don't provide proof of travel, the passport agency may not honor your appointment request.

The State Department operates around two dozen passport agencies across the U.S. If you don't live in a city with a passport agency, you'll need to travel to one of these locations to submit your urgent travel passport application request.

In addition to potential travel costs, you'll need to pay an additional $60 expedited fee to the passport agency at the time of your appointment.

If you qualify for an urgent travel appointment, call 1-877-487-2778 to see what appointments are available. We recommend calling for an appointment as soon as you're possibly eligible — 14 days before departure if you haven't applied yet or five days out if you've already applied — as spots are extremely limited.

» Learn more: 4 times when you should renew your passport

Emergency passport appointments

The U.S. State Department clearly realizes that some situations require special treatment. You can apply for a so-called "life-or-death emergency" appointment at a passport agency if you need to travel internationally within three business days because an immediate family located outside the United States has died, is dying, or has a life-threatening illness or injury.

For the sake of this appointment type, the State Department considers an immediate family member as a:

Parent or legal guardian.

Grandparent.

Travel to visit other family members (aunts, uncles, cousins, etc.) in these situations or to travel to get medical services for yourself do not qualify for life-or-death emergency passport service.

To get a life-or-death passport appointment, call 1-877-487-2778 between 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern Time from Monday to Friday. Outside of these hours and on weekends and federal holidays, call 202-647-4000 instead.

» Learn more: How to get a passport in one day

If you need to expedite a U.S. passport…

Options for expediting a passport range from paying $60 more for an expedited application to applying in person at a passport agency in urgent situations.

If you're traveling in the next few months, don't count on getting your passport anytime soon. Routine passport processing takes weeks — and that doesn't include mailing times. Instead, apply as soon as possible and pay for expedited service.

To get your passport back quicker, pay extra for expedited shipping to and from the agency. Then, if you don't receive your passport as your travel date nears, make an appointment at a passport agency within five days of travel to make sure you have a passport in time to travel.

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On a similar note...

Proof of Travel

Passports through the state department are currently taking 7-10 weeks to process, CIBT standard expedite is currently 3-5 weeks or 2-14 days expedite slots. The U.S. Department of State has 26 locations that issue same-day passports. To qualify for an expedited passport, you must travel within 14 days (or 30 days if a visa is required) and have enough proof of travel.

The U.S. Department of State can only process a limited number of emergency passports a day. So, therefore, proof of travel is necessary. Many applicants do not feel comfortable booking a flight before they have their passport, but in most cases, it is not an option. Many applicants also cut it too close when applying through routine service and do not receive their passport on time. If there is an issue or delay with processing, you will miss your trip. We can offer expedited or mail in program.

Enough Proof of Travel

Plane ticket:.

A plane ticket must show you are traveling within 14 days (or 30 days if a visa is necessary). The plane ticket must be issued by the airline or travel agent and show your name, travel date, and destination.

Hotel Reservation:

Hotel Reservations will suffice for Canada and Mexico only. The hotel reservation must show the name of the hotel, the applicant’s name, and the dates the applicant will be staying. This must also show you will be traveling within 14 days (or 30 days if a visa is necessary).

Business Letter:

A business letter from your employer will generally suffice as proof of travel, but it depends on the agency. If an applicant is going to apply with a business letter, it must show the company’s name, the applicant’s position at the company, the country or countries you are going, and the dates of travel. The manager or a Human Resource specialist must sign the business letter . If an applicant applies using a business letter, it is also suggested the traveler also submit a signed statement explaining the reason for traveling.

It is important to note: provide a print-out of the itinerary for the appointment.  

Get Your Appointment

To apply at a local Passport Agency, you must request an appointment either online or over the phone. On the day of your visit, provide all the documents. Upon approval, you will have your new passport to travel. Contact your local agency by calling (877) 487-2778.

Private Expeditors

Since there are a limited number of Passport Agencies, many applicants cannot be seen in person. But there are third party expeditors, like Americanpassport.com , offering same-day passport service. Expediting services provide many benefits and are registered with the U.S Department of State. Ultimately, they will be submitting your application on your behalf, so there’s no need to be present at the agency yourself. It is important to note, proof of travel is still required when using an expediting service. Be sure you speak with your courier regarding the evidence of travel you will be providing, as different agencies have different requirements.

If you are outside the 14-day window to apply for an emergency passport but don’t think you have enough time to apply the usual way, it is always safer to wait until you can apply as an emergency. You are much more likely to receive your passport if you go to an agency or use an expeditor. However, always account for a delay in processing, so you must give yourself plenty of time when you apply by routine service.

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Requirements for Proof of International Travel for Expedited Passports

In order to expedite a new adult’s or new child’s passport through Fastport Passport , you will need to provide with your documents Proof of International Travel  in the name of the passport applicant, showing that the adult (aged 16 or older) or child applying for an expedited passport is leaving the United States within 14 days or less from the date that the applicant’s documents arrive at our Coney Island Avenue office.

The three key pieces of information that are needed on proof of international travel are:

• Passport applicant’s name
• The date of international travel- this date must be in 14 days or less from the date that your documents are received by us.
• The destination country

Proof of International Travel is most commonly submitted in the form of an airline itinerary , or photocopy of a plane ticket in the passport applicant’s name. This is the preferred form of proof of travel by the United States Department of State.

If the passport applicant is not flying out of the U.S. (i.e., traveling to Canada or Mexico by car ), proof of international travel may be submitted in the form of a hotel reservation in the passport applicant’s name.  

If the passport applicant does not have an airline itinerary or hotel reservation because s/he is traveling for business , his or her boss or superior may submit a typed and HAND-SIGNED letter on official company letterhead on behalf of the applicant. Our website has a business letter template, or the letter-writer can follow the formatting below:

Company Name

123 Business Address Ave, Suite #123 ● City, State, Zip Code ●

Phone (321) 555-1234 ● Fax (123) 555-5678 ●

To The U.S. Department of State or Whom It May Concern:

We are currently making arrangements for <passport applicants name> to travel to <name of destination city and foreign country> in order to <state the nature of the business to be conducted>. The tentative dates for this trip are <enter a date within the next 2 weeks in which to leave the U.S., and an expected return date>. We would greatly appreciate your help in getting <applicant’s name>’s passport expedited as quickly as possible in time for this planned trip.

If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact me, <letter writer’s name and title> at <direct business telephone number, email address, and personal telephone number>.

Letter must be printed and Hand-Signed by letter-writer

Typed Signature

If you are traveling to Canada or Mexico by car, are not staying in a hotel, not traveling for business reasons, but are staying at the residence of a friend or family member, you can have the friend of family member that you are staying with type and hand-sign a letter on your behalf following the same general template as the Business Letter above. The letter-writer should also take a front and back photo-copy of his/her ID to prove his/her identity. This letter can be scanned into the letter-writer’s computer after it is hand-signed, and emailed to the passport applicant to serve as proof of travel.

NOTE: Do NOT allow the letter writer to fax their letter to you. Faxes typically print out in a blurry manner, and are almost always rejected by the U.S. Department of State when they are issuing expedited passports and reviewing the applicant’s proof of international travel. If the letter-writer cannot deliver you the original signed copy of the letter, a scanned and emailed copy of the letter will typically suffice.

If you have any questions about how to obtain an expedited new adult’s passport, a new child’s passport, or an expedited passport renewal, please call or visit one of our locations, or log on to our website to chat live with a passport expert Monday through Friday from 9am to 5pm Eastern Time.

Passports Expedited On Time, Everytime. Service fees starting as low as $119

• Search forums
• After The Green Card And US Citizenship
• US Citizenship

HELP! Proof of International Travel for expedited passport, does this qualify?

• Thread starter Mombasa_guy
• Start date Oct 11, 2012

Mombasa_guy

Registered users (c).

• Oct 11, 2012

cafeconleche

• Oct 12, 2012

Of course a bus ticket counts. You just need to convince them that you will be crossing the border right after. They have no right to ask you to postpone your trip, and they are paid to issue you a passport in an hour.  

Jackolantern

cafeconleche said: Of course a bus ticket counts. You just need to convince them that you will be crossing the border right after. Click to expand...

mogambo1 said: Well that is 22 min journey by bus. I think you should also arrange proof of the emergency situation that has arisen in Tijuana that is leaving you without a choice but to make this immediate trip. IMO return reservation if close to your departing (say 1 week) unless substantiated with a proof of emergency travel would compel them to ask you "Why cant you postpone this trip?" Also as far as my understanding goes there is nothing called one day passport, it is one week passport if you are willing to pay extra. 1 day is a favor done to applicants based on their extremely emergent international travel situation. Click to expand...

Ah yes, I misread the OP and thought the bus ticket was to San Diego, after which they were going to go across to Mexico (by car, possibly). Looks like you have all you need.  

• Oct 13, 2012
• Oct 31, 2012
• Nov 1, 2012

Mombasa_guy said: mogambo1 eat crow! I got it the same day with the info above no questions asked Click to expand...

Jackolantern said: You are very misinformed. A passport agency will produce the passport the same day or next day with proof of international travel in the near future, and it doesn't have to be an "extremely emergent" travel situation. Click to expand...

mogambo1 said: Thanks. Here is an excerpt from the relevant page. The Expedited Fee is required for each application submitted in person at a Passport Agency or Center. Some Passport Agencies and Centers require proof of international travel within two weeks , or proof of need to obtain a foreign visa within four weeks . Check the individual agency/center pages for additional details. You may not present a travel itinerary on an electronic mobile device as proof of travel at a Passport Agency or Center which requires it. An appointment is required to apply at a Passport Agency or Center. Schedule an appointment 24/7: 1-877-487-2778 . Click to expand...

mogambo1 said: Thank you for the invitation to your house, but I don't relish crows, so you can enjoy it with your Mexican family. Click to expand...

cafeconleche said: Haha, eat crow! Funny. I would assume Mombasa_guy is Kenyan, like the president. Not Mexican. Click to expand...

• Nov 2, 2012

Mombasa_guy said: ha ha ha ha Mogambo1 is an interesting specimen to say the least. He dishes out screeds of hopeless erroneous advice then gets upset when the facts/events prove him wrong. Instead of eating humble pie he then segues into doing and posting some "research" (why didn't he take a few seconds to do it before he blurted out his initial terrible advice?) before launching a flurry of vicious personal attacks! Very funny. Click to expand...

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Make an Appointment at a Passport Agency

Life-or-Death Emergencies

Courier and Expeditor Companies

You may qualify for an appointment if you need to travel to a foreign country in the next two weeks because your immediate family member outside of the United States:

• Has died, or
• Is dying (hospice care), or
• Has a life-threatening illness or injury

Who is an immediate family member?

• Parent or legal guardian
• Grandparent

We do not consider aunts, uncles, cousins, or other relatives to be immediate family members.

If you are traveling to another country for medical services, you will not qualify for life-or-death emergency service. 

How do I make an appointment?

Schedule your appointment up to two weeks before your international travel. 

Follow these steps:

• Death certificate
• Statement from a mortuary
• Letter from the hospital. The letter must be on hospital letterhead, signed by a doctor, and explain your relative’s medical condition.
• If the document is not in English, get it translated by a professional translator.  
• Get proof that you are traveling to a foreign country in the next two weeks such as an itinerary or airline ticket.
• Complete a passport application , get a passport photo , and valid government-issued photo ID .
• First, try to make an appointment online  if you have not applied for a passport. 
• Mondays through Fridays from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. ET: Call  1-877-487-2778 . If you are deaf or hard of hearing, call  1-888-874-7793  for TDD/TTY teletype services.
• Saturdays, Sundays, federal holidays, and after 8:00 p.m. ET on Mondays through Fridays: Call  202-647-4000 . Do not call this number between 8:00 a.m. and 8:00 p.m. ET on Mondays through Fridays, or if you need  Urgent Travel Service . 

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Planning to travel abroad? Passports are needed for international travel, and you may need a passport sooner than expected.

A passport is a form of documentation that serves as proof of citizenship. countries issue passports to their citizens; u.s. passports are issued by the united states department of state., get your u.s. passport fast.

Many countries require your passport to be valid 6 months after your planned return date, and some require travel visas to enter. Make sure you have everything you need in time for your departure date and get exclusive AAA rates on expedited passport and travel visa services online with RushMyPassport.com .

RushMyPassport.com offers:

• Personalized passport application review — avoid common mistakes that cause delays in the passport applications process
• Real time tracking of your passport or travel visa progress
• Exclusive AAA rates to members on expedited passport courier service
• Services start at just $99.00

Where to Get a Passport Photo?

Get your passport photos taken at a AAA branch office

AAA members receive a discount on a set of 2 passport photos taken at a AAA branch for a nominal fee

First-time applicants

First-time applicants must apply in person at an authorized Passport Application Acceptance Facility or Passport Agency if:

• You are under the age of 16
• Your previous passport was issued when you were under the age of 16
• Your previous passport was lost, stolen, damaged or issued more than 15 years ago
• Your name has changed since your U.S. Passport was issued, and you are unable to legally document your name change.

Renew your passport by mail:

You can renew an expired or soon-to-be expired U.S. passport by mail if it meets the following criteria:

• It is undamaged and can be submitted with your passport application
• It was issued when you were 16 or older and within the last 15 years.

Visit the U.S. Department of State website (new tab) to download required forms and for more information.

Do Kids Need ID to Fly? Travel Identification Info for Every Age

A couple of times a year, I get a panicked message from a friend or reader who is about to take an airplane flight with their kids. Suddenly they’ve realized that they have no idea what kind of identification they need for their children to fly, if any. After a decade and a half of flying on hundreds of flights and dozens of airlines with my kids to destinations all around the world, I know this question can certainly be confusing!

In the United States, there are multiple entities that set the official legal rules and regulations governing air travel identification and documentation. Those can include Customs and Border Protection, the Department of State, the Department of Homeland Security, the Federal Aviation Administration, the Transportation Security Administration, and each specific airline.

So exactly what documentation is required to board an airplane with kids? As you might imagine, it depends! Here is all the information you need to make sure you have the right identification to travel aboard both domestic and international flights with kids.

Short on Time? Quick Answers in a Nutshell

Children under the age of 18 typically do not need ID to fly on domestic flights within the United States when accompanied by an adult. Airlines may require identification, however, in more unusual circumstances such as with very young infants, lap children, unaccompanied minors, or older teens flying solo. Identification – specifically a passport book but sometimes more – is always required for kids of any age to travel on international flights.

Identification Required for Kids for International Travel

Most travelers usually expect strict identification rules when it comes to international travel. If you are traveling internationally by air the answer to the question of whether kids need ID to fly is pretty simple. Yes! They do!

Not just any ID will suffice. Just as with adults, a passport book is required to fly with kids internationally no matter how young. If you have kids who are United States citizens, getting an official passport can be time-consuming and expensive. In addition, it requires some logistical steps that parents can mess up.

How to Get Passports in the US for Kids

Specifically, the consent of both parents is required for kids under age 16. That usually means both parents need to appear in person at a passport acceptance facility (like many post offices, local government offices, etc.). Alternatively, one parent can appear in person with a notarized statement of consent from the other parent. I got a notarized letter from my husband the last time we applied for our kids because his work schedule made it difficult for him to be available during the limited business hours passport acceptance facilities in our area were open.

Note also that you can’t just easily renew children’s passports by mail like you can for adults. The same in-person application process with both parents present is required. Plus kids under age 16 must renew passports every 5 years, instead of every 10 years for adults.

For that reason, I highly recommend starting the process of obtaining passports for your kids many months in advance of any international travel. After the paperwork is submitted, the process can take 2-3 months for a passport to arrive. Plus, it can often take many weeks before you can get an appointment to even submit the paperwork.

This obviously makes international travel with very young infants especially challenging, as it takes time to first get a birth certificate for the child and then apply for a passport.

Hopefully you are landing on this article in plenty of time to get your paperwork in order for your specific situation. But if not, there may be ways you can get what you need more urgently. You can pay a $60 extra fee to expedite a passport, which can cut several weeks off of standard processing times. And in more urgent situations, there is an even more expedited option available by applying at a passport agency (which can be done if a trip is within 14 days or less).

Special Note about International Land Crossings and Cruises

One reason some travelers misunderstand the air travel rules for kid identification is because the rules for kids crossing land borders and on some cruises can be different. For example, minors who are US citizens can cross into Canada by land with only a birth certificate.

On some closed loop cruises starting and ending in the United States going to destinations like Mexico, Canada, or many Caribbean countries, there are times when both kids and adults can technically travel without a passport using a birth certificate or passport card.

But none of these exceptions apply to international air travel. Don’t mix these rules up!

Child Travel Consent Form

Although a passport book is necessary to travel with kids on international flights, it isn’t necessarily fully sufficient. There are some times that other travel documents may be required – such as a visa for certain countries.

What is even more likely to trip up international travelers is the situation in which a child is traveling with only one parent or is traveling with another adult who isn’t a parent. In many of these circumstances, proof that both parents consent to the specific trip can be required. In these cases, the best practice is to carry a notarized letter of consent for the child to travel.

Some countries have very specific forms or formats that you need to follow. Mexico is one such example and historically has tended to be quite strict. My husband will likely be traveling solo with one of our kids to Mexico for a family wedding in a few months, and we are already planning to get the a letter of consent completed as an extra precaution.

Many countries don’t have clear cut rules that are easy to research. For example, I flew last summer to Italy (first entering the Schengen Area in Frankfurt, Germany) with both of my kids without my husband. I wasn’t able to get completely definitive information as to whether consent was required. As a result, we went ahead and had my husband complete a notarized letter of consent that I kept with me along with a copy of his passport. We weren’t asked to show it, but I breathed easier knowing I had it!

Unfortunately, profiling can and does occur depending on where you are traveling. So parents who don’t share the same last name as their children or who may appear to be another race or ethnicity may find they face extra scrutiny. The best way to avoid any surprises – just or not – is to err on the side of having this document even when it’s not necessarily required.

Identification Required for Kids for Domestic Travel

If you are traveling domestically, the answer to the ID question is a little more complicated but thankfully usually much easier. In most standard circumstances, identification is not required for minors for domestic travel within the USA. There are specific unique situations, however, where it can be.

What Identification is Needed at TSA Checkpoints?

For domestic travel, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) will not require you to have an ID for children under age 18 at the security checkpoint.

That said, TSA agents may well talk to your child to confirm their identity and to screen for cases of child abduction. Agents have asked my kids over the years for their names. In some circumstances, they’ve pointed to my husband or me and asked our children who we are. If you have kids who are shy or who take warnings of stranger danger to heart, let them know in advance of your trip that it’s ok for them to speak to these agents and to answer truthfully.

Related: Strategies for Speeding Through TSA Checkpoints with Kids

Special Situations Where Kids May Need ID for Domestic Travel

While the TSA won’t require identification for kids under age 18, many airlines have policies in specific circumstances where some form of ID will be required. It’s vital to know about these outlier circumstances so you don’t come to the airport unprepared.

Young Infants

A number of airlines have rules that prohibit or limit newborns from flying. Airline rules differ, with some airlines like Delta prohibiting newborns under 7 days old from flying on any flights. Others set limits only on international travel, including Southwest which limits infants 14 days old or younger from flying on international flights. Most airlines allow young infants under their age limits, however, to fly with a letter of permission from a physician.

Related: Essential Tips for Your Baby’s First Flight

If you are traveling with a newborn, it’s highly advised to bring a document like a birth certificate for proof of age. And if you are looking for an exception to an age minimum of any sort, a physician’s letter is essential.

Lap Children

When you are flying with a child who will be sitting in your lap (permitted for kids under age 2), having identification to prove age may be required. Some airlines will allow younger infants to board with no ID, as it’s normally obvious that very small babies are not yet near the maximum age cutoff. Families with older babies toddling and speaking always should carry proof of age no matter what the airline. Airline employees can ask at any time for proof to make sure the child is young enough to travel as a lap child.

Related: What to Consider before Flying with a Lap Child

If you are flying Southwest Airlines, however, do not leave ID at home no matter what the age of your lap child. Southwest is the only US carrier that absolutely requires identification of any and every lap child regardless of how old they appear. You’ll need to show it at the ticket counter to obtain a boarding verification document (that works like a boarding pass) for the lap child.

Are there some instances where passengers haven’t had to show documentation for their children on Southwest? For sure. But I’ve flown with a lap child on Southwest more than a dozen times, and I can assure you that every time I had to show proof of age, even with a kiddo as young as 4 months! You don’t want to chance this.

Related: Complete Guide to Flying Southwest with Kids

What kind of identification works for lap children? A simple copy of a birth certificate will usually suffice. No need to rush to the DMV to get your tot a state-issued ID card.

Birth certificates can, however, can take awhile to obtain after a child is born. If you need to fly with a young infant domestically, most airlines will also accept hospital discharge documentation or vaccination records from a pediatrician’s office. The key is that the document have the child’s date of birth on it. When in doubt, if you cannot obtain a birth certificate, call the airline you are flying beforehand to confirm alternatives.

Unaccompanied Minors & Minors Traveling Solo

Another circumstance in which identification may be required for a child is in the case of children flying alone. Again, each airline’s policy is different.

In this situation, age really matters. All US airlines permit older teens (usually ages 15+ but sometimes younger) to fly solo just like adults. And most of them also allow younger kids (often ages 5-14) to fly as unaccompanied minors by paying a fee for limited supervision by airline employees. Depending on the child’s age and circumstances, different documentation can be required.

For older teens under age 18 flying truly solo and not with an unaccompanied minor program, ID is almost always required. Since many kids in this age range won’t have a driver’s license or official government photo ID yet, some airlines (like United) will accept other forms of identification like a birth certificates or student IDs. Other airlines (like Delta), however, require that 15-17 year olds flying solo have the same kind of photo ID that is required of adults. So if your child doesn’t have a driver’s permit or license yet, you’ll likely need to pack a passport.

Younger kids flying as an unaccompanied minor may need some identification as well. This also varies based on the airline and the circumstance. For example, when my son flew earlier this year as an unaccompanied minor on Southwest, I had to show ID as his parent, but I was not asked to show identification for him. Officially, however, Southwest’s policy is that parents may need to show proof of age for the minor. We probably weren’t asked because I booked under my son’s Rapid Rewards account that includes his date of birth (and he clearly appears to be within the age range of the program).

Most other US airlines won’t ask for ID for unaccompanied minors in straightforward situations, but the important thing to note is that they can . So the safest course of action is to at least carry a birth certificate. I put a birth certificate in my son’s backpack anyway, so we were prepared!

Here are links to the relevant age and ID policies that may apply to minors flying solo or as unaccompanied minors on each major US airline:

• Alaska Airlines
• American Airlines
• Delta Airlines
• Frontier Airlines
• Hawaiian Airlines
• JetBlue Airways
• Southwest Airlines
• Spirit Airlines
• United Airlines

Additional Identification Air Travel Tips

• When in doubt, bring it : I know from lots of digging around fine print on the internet that it’s sometimes impossible to get a definitive answer about identification. When in doubt, I highly recommend you err on the side of packing more than you need rather than less. A passport book is the gold standard. For domestic travel an original birth certificate (with the raised seal) can be helpful in many circumstances too.
• Keep extra copies on the cloud : Back in the pre-internet old days of travel, most of us traveled with extra passport copies in a separate bag in case we lost the original. In the digital age, having backups is easier than ever. I keep a copy on the cloud of passports and birth certificates for everyone in the family. That way, I can easily access everything on my phone in cases of emergency.
• Take extra precautions in case of child custody disputes and divorce : It’s crucial in situations of divorce or shared custody that parents have all of their legal ducks in a row before boarding a plane with their child, even for a simple hop across state lines. As a former attorney myself, I strongly suggest you consult your own legal counsel. Always make sure travel is permitted and that you know what additional documentation you need to bring to avoid any potential issues.

The post Do Kids Need ID to Fly? Travel Identification Info for Every Age appeared first on Trips With Tykes .