Planning to travel internationally this year? Better turn in your passport application ASAP
The summer travel season is right around the corner, which means travelers itching to see the world should get a move on making sure they have an up-to-date passport in hand.
The State Department says routine passport processing times are estimated to be eight to 11 weeks – still above the pre-pandemic average of six to eight weeks but much better than the 18-week wait travelers faced last summer.
The State Department encourages U.S. citizens to apply for a passport “well in advance” of any expected travel and suggests applying for or renewing a passport at least six months ahead of planned travel to avoid any problems.
Here’s what else travelers should know about passport applications before their trip.
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How long is the wait time for passports?
Passport processing times have been at eight to 11 weeks since fall.
It’s important to remember that the State Department no longer includes mailing times in its estimate, so the total wait time could stretch longer than 11 weeks. It may take up to two weeks from the application date until the application is considered “in process.”
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How can I rush my passport application?
Need a faster turnaround? Expedited processing can drops the processing wait time to five to seven weeks, but travelers will need to pay an extra $60.
I need my passport soon. How can I schedule a passport appointment near me?
Passport agencies offer two types of appointments: Life or death emergency services and urgent travel services.
► Life-or-death emergency service is available for people who have an immediate family member outside the U.S. who has died, is dying or has a life-threatening injury or illness that requires travel to a foreign country within three business days. All passport agencies offer limited appointments for this service, and travelers must provide proof of the emergency.
► Urgent travel service is available for non-emergency international travel within five business days. Limited appointments are offered at select passport agencies.
Travelers must call the State Department to make an appointment.
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How much does a passport cost?
Passport fees vary by age and include an application fee and, in some circumstances, an execution fee.
- Travelers 16 and older who are applying for the first time must pay $165 in fees.
- Travelers 16 and older who are renewing their passport book must pay $130 in fees.
- Travelers under 16 applying for a passport book must pay $135 in fees.
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How can I check my passport application status?
Travelers can check the status of their passport application on the State Department’s website.
- “Not available” means the application is still in transit to the State Department.
- “In process” means the application is being reviewed.
- “Approved” means the State Department has finished reviewing the application.
- “Mailed” means the State Department is sending the passport in the mail.
A tracking number can be found online.
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How often do I need to renew my passport?
Passports issued to travelers 16 and older are valid for 10 years. Passports issued to people under 16 are valid for five years.
A passport does not have to expire before the owner can renew it. The State Department encourages travelers whose passports are set to expire within one year to apply for a new passport.
Follow USA TODAY reporter Bailey Schulz on Twitter: @bailey_schulz.