How to Check Your U.S. Passport Application Status in 3 Easy Steps

How to Check Your U.S. Passport Application Status in 3 Easy Steps: Applying for a U.S. passport is an essential step for international travel. Once you submit your application, you might wonder how long it will take and how you can track its progress. Fortunately, the U.S. Department of State provides simple ways to check your passport application status online, by phone, or through email updates. This guide will walk you through three easy steps to check your passport status, provide tips on avoiding delays, and explain what to do if you need your passport urgently.

How to Check Your U.S. Passport Application Status in 3 Easy Steps

Tracking your U.S. passport application is simple if you follow the right steps. Whether you check online, by phone, or via email updates, staying informed will help you plan your travels with confidence. If you need your passport urgently, be sure to explore expedited options.

How to Check Your U.S. Passport Application Status in 3 Easy Steps?

Step 1: Understand Passport Processing Times

Before checking your passport status, it is important to understand the estimated processing times.

Routine and Expedited Processing

• Routine Processing: Takes 4 to 6 weeks after the Department of State receives your application.
• Expedited Processing: Takes 2 to 3 weeks with an additional $60 fee.
• Expedited at Agency: For emergency travel within 14 days, you may be eligible to apply at a passport agency. Appointments are required.

Mailing times are not included in these estimates. It can take up to two weeks for your application to reach the passport center and another two weeks for delivery after approval.

Step 2: Choose Your Preferred Method to Check Application Status

Online Status Check

The fastest and easiest way to check your passport status is through the Online Passport Status System.

1. Wait at least 14 days after applying before checking your status.
2. Visit the Online Passport Status System.
3. Enter the following information:
   • Last Name (include suffixes, if applicable)
   • Date of Birth (MM/DD/YYYY)
   • Last Four Digits of Your Social Security Number
4. Click Submit to view your application status.

Phone Inquiry

If you prefer speaking with an agent, call the National Passport Information Center:

• Phone Number: 1-877-487-2778 (TDD/TTY: 1-888-874-7793)
• Hours of Operation:
  • Monday–Friday: 8:00 a.m. – 10:00 p.m. Eastern Time
  • Saturday: 10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. Eastern Time
  • Closed on federal holidays

Email Updates

• If you applied online, email updates are sent automatically.
• If you applied by mail or in person, visit the Online Passport Status System and enter your email to receive notifications.

Step 3: Understand Your Application Status

Here is what each status means:

• Not Available: Your application has not yet been processed. It may take up to two weeks after submission for your status to update.
• In Process: Your application is being reviewed at a passport center. Processing times vary.
• Approved: Your application has been approved, and your passport is being printed.
• Mailed: Your passport has been sent via mail. If you applied for a passport book, you can track delivery online.
• Additional Information Needed: There is an issue with your application. You will receive a letter or email with further instructions.

Common Reasons for Delays

Some applications take longer than expected due to:

• Incomplete Forms: Missing signatures, incorrect information, or blank fields.
• Insufficient Identification: Issues with your ID or proof of citizenship documents.
• Recent Name Changes: If your name has changed, ensure you include legal proof.
• Photo Issues: Poor-quality photos or ones that do not meet requirements.

To avoid delays, double-check your application before submission.

What to Do If You Need Your Passport Urgently?

If you need a passport within 14 days, you may qualify for Expedited at Agency service.

Steps to Get an Urgent Passport

1. Check Appointment Availability: Visit the State Department’s Appointment System to check for openings.
2. Call for Appointment: Dial 1-877-487-2778 for emergency appointments.
3. Bring Proof of Urgency: Such as an itinerary showing international travel within 14 days.

For life-or-death emergencies, such as medical emergencies requiring international travel, call 1-877-487-2778 for special processing options.

What to Do If Your Passport Is Lost or Stolen?

If your passport is lost in transit, report it immediately:

1. Fill out Form DS-86.
2. Call the National Passport Information Center at 1-877-487-2778.
3. Submit a new application if necessary.

Real-World Example

Sarah applied for her passport six weeks before her international trip. After three weeks, she checked the Online Passport Status System, but her application was still “In Process.” Worried about delays, she called the National Passport Information Center. They advised her to wait one more week. Four days later, her status changed to Approved, and she received her passport within another week.

The lesson? Check your status early and act quickly if delays occur.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How long does it take to get a U.S. passport?

• Routine: 4 to 6 weeks
• Expedited: 2 to 3 weeks (additional $60 fee)

Can I expedite my passport after submitting my application?
Yes. Call 1-877-487-2778 to request expedited processing.

What if my passport status says “Not Available”?
This means your application is still being processed. Wait at least two weeks before checking again.

How do I fix a mistake on my passport application?
Contact the National Passport Information Center immediately for guidance.

What should I do if I haven’t received my passport after it was mailed?
If more than two weeks have passed since your passport was mailed, call 1-877-487-2778 and submit Form DS-86.