If you’re trying to figure out whether standard processing will work for your travel date, or what your options are if it won’t, here’s what you need to know.

Why Are Passport Wait Times Still So Long?

The U.S. issued a record 27.3 million passport books and cards in fiscal year 2025—the highest volume in history. Several factors are contributing to continued demand:

Pandemic-era demand shifts
International travel rebounded sharply after the pandemic, leading to several years of elevated passport demand as travelers renewed expired documents and resumed overseas trips.

REAL ID awareness
As the REAL ID requirement took effect in 2025, some Americans chose to obtain a passport book or passport card as an alternative federally accepted form of identification.

Continued growth in international travel
Americans continue to travel abroad in large numbers, creating steady demand for both first-time passports and renewals.

More Americans hold passports than ever
The share of Americans holding a passport has increased from 5% in 1990 to 48% in 2024, according to U.S. Department of State data cited by the Congressional Research Service. With most adult passports valid for 10 years, that growth means significantly more renewals are cycling through the passport system each year.

How Long Does It Take to Get a Passport in 2026?

Here’s where processing times stand right now. All times below are processing only — mailing time is separate and adds to your total.

What Makes Wait Times Even Longer?

Most delays don’t come from processing — they come from what’s around it.

Mailing time isn’t included in the official estimate

The State Department starts the clock when your application arrives, not when you send it. Mailing adds 1–2 weeks each way on top of whatever processing tier you choose.

Application errors restart the clock

A wrong photo, a missing document, or an incorrect fee stops your application completely. Common issues: photos with improper backgrounds, outdated supporting documents, miscalculated fees. Any error means starting over — which can add weeks to your timeline.

Peak season pushes times to the upper end

January through June is the highest-volume window of the year. Processing consistently runs at the longer end of the published range during this period.

When Is the Best Time to Apply for a Passport?

If you have flexibility, timing matters.

January – June: Longest waits

Peak season. Application volume is at its highest. Budget for the upper end of the published estimate.

July – September: Moderate

Volume eases after the summer rush and wait times trend lower.

October – December: Fastest window of the year

Application volume drops and processing times hit their lowest point. If your passport has 9–12 months of validity left and travel isn’t imminent, applying in fall is the easiest way to avoid the spring backlog.

How Can You Get a Passport Faster?

If standard processing won’t work for your travel date, here are your options.

Government expedited service

Add $60 to your application and processing drops from 4–6 weeks to 2–3 weeks. You can also pay for faster return shipping at the time of submission to trim the total further. A good option if you’re traveling in 6–8 weeks.

In-person appointment at a regional passport agency

If your travel is confirmed within 14 days, you may qualify for same-day or next-day processing at one of the State Department’s 26 regional passport agencies and centers. You’ll need proof of travel, and appointments are limited—especially during peak travel seasons.

Because regional passport agencies are not located in every state, some travelers may need to travel significant distances to attend an appointment.

Regional agencies currently accept two types of appointments:

• Urgent Travel Service (travel within 14 days)
• Life-or-Death Emergency Service

Registered passport expediting service

A registered courier is authorized by the Department of State to hand-deliver applications directly to regional processing centers — bypassing standard mail entirely. Expediting begins as soon as your documents are received, with same-week turnaround possible for urgent cases.

Keep in mind: shipping takes approximately 2 days each way, so your realistic door-to-door estimate is your processing time plus about 4 days total for shipping.

If your timeline isn’t urgent, courier services also offer 3-week and 6-week options. These are a good fit if you have a little more time but want a guided process — you’ll have access to customer support and real-time tracking throughout, so you’re never left wondering where your application stands.

For more detail on how the process works, see How to Get an Expedited Passport Renewal.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does mailing time count toward the official processing estimate?

No. Processing time starts when your application is received — not when you mail it. Mailing typically adds 1–2 weeks each way on top of your processing time, though the State Department notes it can take up to 2 weeks in the worst case.

What’s the fastest way to get a passport right now?

A registered courier service is typically the fastest option. Expediting starts as soon as your documents are received, with same-week turnaround possible for urgent cases. Add approximately 2 days shipping each way for your realistic total.

Can I get a passport in a week?

In many cases, yes — but the timeline depends on when your documents arrive. Expediting starts once your application is received, so factor in approximately 2 days for inbound shipping and 2 days for return delivery. See courier service options to find the tier that fits your travel date.

Why are passport wait times so long in 2026?

Demand is at a record high. The U.S. issued 27.3 million passports in FY2025 — the most ever — driven by post-pandemic renewals, the REAL ID deadline, and travelers preparing for ETIAS. Peak season from January through June adds further pressure.

Do I need to expedite my passport for Europe travel in 2026?

If your passport is valid, your travel is more than 8 weeks out, and your passport won’t expire within 6 months of your return date, standard processing may be enough. If any of those conditions don’t apply, expediting is worth considering. The EU’s ETIAS system is also expected to launch Q4 2026 — you’ll need a valid passport to obtain authorization.

What if standard processing won’t work for your timeline?

If you need your passport faster than routine or government expedited allows, a registered expediting service may be able to help — even on short notice.

If you applied for a passport renewal lately, you may have noticed that your new passport looks different than before. The NGP is being issued to all applicants.

What is the U.S. Next Generation Passport?

The U.S. Next Generation Passport is the future of American travel documentation. The NGPs were first introduced in 2021. These passports are equipped with cutting-edge features to enhance their functionality and safety. 

The biggest upgrade in the Next Generation Passport is the information page. This is the page with your name, photo, birthdate, and where you’re from. The passport photo is laser engraved in black and white, and the page is tougher and more durable.

Can I Request a New Generation Passport?

The rollout of the NGP began in 2021. As of the beginning of 2023, all passport agencies are issuing the new passport books. The Next Generation Passport look is only extended to passport books. The passport card has not been upgraded yet. 

How to Apply for a Next Generation Passport

The application process for the Next Generation Passport is the same as other applications. You will need to gather the necessary documents, including proof of citizenship, a passport-sized photo, and a completed application form.

Currently, the U.S. Department of State’s standard processing time is 6-8 weeks. If you need your document sooner, you can expedite your passport.

I Don’t Have the Next Generation Passport. Do I Need to Upgrade my Current Passport?

No!—your existing passport is still valid until it expires. The new design doesn’t make your old passport obsolete, so you’re good to go as long as it meets entry requirements for your destination.

That said, it’s always smart to double-check your passport’s expiration date before making any travel plans. Many countries require at least six months of validity to enter.

While you’re at it, take a moment to review your travel checklist—valid passport, visa (if needed), and travel medical insurance. It’s one of those things you hope you won’t need, but you’ll be glad to have if anything unexpected comes up—especially medical emergencies abroad.

Why is there a QR Code on the Next Generation Passport?

The QR code stickers on the back of passport books are placed to make life easier for travelers. It leads to the Department of State’s informational passport page.

You can take off the sticker if you want, but it is suggested to keep it. The code will give you quick access to the informational webpage. The code is the same on all passports. It does not contain any personal info.

What Are the 5 Types of Passports?

There are various types of passports available to United States citizens, depending on their travel needs. These are the five types of U.S. passports:

• Regular Passport (Blue Cover): This is the standard passport issued to US citizens for international travel. It’s suitable for most international trips.
• Official Passport (Black Cover): Issued to government employees and officials traveling abroad on official business.
• Diplomatic Passport (Black Cover): Reserved for US diplomats and high-ranking government officials. It provides diplomatic immunity and privileges.
• Emergency Passport (Red Cover): Issued in cases of emergency travel, such as lost or stolen passports when immediate travel is necessary.
• Next-Gen Passport (Purple Cover): The Next Generation Passport, with its violet cover, incorporates advanced security features to enhance protection and functionality.

Expedited Passport Services with RushMyPassport

If you need a passport quickly, but don’t have the time or patience to go to a passport agency or post office, RushMyPassport can help.

With services ranging from new passports, passport renewals, child passports, or replacing a lost or stolen passport, our team of registered couriers and passport advisors will help get your passport fast.

Get started today to find out why RushMyPassport is the most convenient way to get a passport in a hurry!

• The newly launched Online Passport Renewal System – processing 8-10 weeks
• In person at a Passport Office by appointment only – same day processing
• By USPS Mail – Expedited and Routine Service – 3-8 weeks plus 2 weeks shipping
• Private Passport Expediting Service – 1-14 days processing plus overnight shipping

Can I renew my United States Passport online?

The State Department announced in September 2024 that its online renewal system is now operational. It continues to monitor feedback to improve the safety, security and experience of the new process.

It is not available for the renewal of children’s passports, for first-time passport applicants for renewal applicants who live outside the United States or for expedited applications. It will still take up to 8 weeks for processing plus shipping time of 2 weeks. If you need your passport quicker than these time-frames allow then you’ll likely need to utilize a private expediting company.

Am I eligible to renew my passport online?

Just like applying for a passport using traditional methods such as a Passport Acceptance Facility or Post Office, there are specific eligibility requirements when renewing your passport online. These eligibility requirements are outlined by the U.S. Department of State as follows.

• Your most recent passport is/was valid for 10 years, and you are age 25 or older. 
• Your recent passport was issued over 9 years ago but less than 15 years ago (in 2007) from the date you plan to submit your application. Your passport can be expired. 
• You are not changing your name, date of birth, or place of birth.
• You are not traveling internationally for at least six weeks from the date you will submit your application. Processing times for the online renewal service will be the same as those for renewal by mail.
• You are applying for a regular (tourist) passport. You cannot renew a special issuance (diplomatic, official, service) passport online.
• You live in the United States (either state or territory)
• You have your passport with you, and it is not damaged or mutilated, and you have not previously reported it as lost or stolen. 
• You can pay for your passport using a credit/debit card or an ACH (Automated Clearing House) payment transferring funds from your bank account.
• You can upload a digital passport photo (.JPEG file format). Go to Uploading a Digital Photo for more information.

Online Passport Renewal: Pros and Cons

While renewing your passport online may seem like a convenient option, there are definitely pros and cons to this method of renewing a United States Passport. Here are some important facts to take into consideration when deciding on how to apply for a passport renewal, or whether you should renew your passport online.

• The initial pilot program user feedback has been varied and could be subject to unforeseen complications.
• Passport photo compliance can be difficult to achieve. Passport photos are one of the most common reasons for delays in passport applications. The size, compression, background, and even what you’re wearing in the photo can have an impact on the approval of your passport photo. If you intend to apply for a passport renewal online, we suggest a professional digital passport photo tool.
• Service speeds through the online passport renewal portal remain the same as applying through traditional methods. Expect to wait up to 8 weeks for routine processing plus an additional 2-3 weeks for shipping. If you need your passport faster, you’ll likely need to use a private expediting company.
• Processing times as outlined by the U.S. Department of State are estimations and are not guaranteed. Additionally, these estimated service times do not take shipping times into consideration, and can often be the difference between receiving your passport on time or missing your trip.
• To apply for a U.S. Passport Renewal Online, you must create a separate MyTravelGov account, and go through steps to activate it.

What documents are required to renew my passport online?

The documents required when applying for a passport online are almost exactly the same as when applying for a passport renewal through traditional methods. However, there are a few differing requirements listed in this article, and the method of delivery obviously differs. Here are the required documents you should account for when applying for an online passport renewal.

• Expired or Expiring U.S. Passport 
• DS-82 Passport Application
• Digital Passport Photo

What are the fees for an online passport renewal?

The online passport renewal fees are paid online using a credit, debit card, or ACH payment using funds from your bank account. The payment method will require users to create an account on pay.gov, which is a government website used to collect payments.

• Adult Passport Book: $130
• Digital Passport Photo (varies depending on service but ranges from $9.99-$19.99)

How to get your passport fast

If you need a passport faster than the online passport renewal process can provide, you can still make an appointment and go in person to a passport office or use a private passport expediting company. 

A private expediting company will take your application directly to the Department of State, where it can be processed in as little as 1 business day. The company will then ship your new passport back to you, usually overnight.

In addition to speeding up the application process, utilizing a private expediting company can also reduce the chance of mistakes that could delay your passport application. If there is a problem or delay at the passport office, the expediting company will notify you and help you resolve the issue right away.

Expediting your passport with RushMyPassport

If you need a passport quickly, but don’t have the time or patience to go to a passport agency or post office, RushMyPassport can help.

With services ranging from new passports, passport renewals, child passports, or replacing a lost or stolen passport, our team of registered couriers and passport advisors will help get your passport fast!

Get started today or visit a FedEx Office location near you to find out why RushMyPassport is the most convenient way to get a passport in a hurry!

When is the Paris Olympics?

The Paris 2024 Olympics will take place from July 26th to August 11th, 2024. Athletes from around the world will gather in the iconic city of Paris. The city will transform it into a hub of sporting excitement and cultural exchange. The rich history and vibrant energy make Paris the perfect place for this extraordinary event.

How Many Times Has Paris Hosted the Olympics?

Paris holds the honor of hosting the Olympics for the third time, showcasing its enduring commitment to the spirit of the Games. The city previously hosted the Olympics in 1900 and 1924. This makes Paris the second city to host the Olympics for a third time, after London hosted the games in 1908, 1948, and 2012.

Tickets & Travel Requirements for the Paris Olympics

Attending the Paris 2024 Olympics can be a dream come true for many, but it’s essential to consider the associated costs. Ticket prices vary depending on the event and seating category. Additionally, you need to make sure that you have the required travel documents to enter France.

2024 Olympics Tickets

For those eager to witness the spectacle firsthand, buying tickets for the Paris 2024 Olympics is the first step. The official Olympic website provides a user-friendly platform for purchasing tickets, allowing fans to choose their preferred events and seating categories. We recommend keeping an eye on the official website for updates on tickets.

Passport Requirements

You will need a passport before traveling to France. Passports must be valid for at least three months beyond your planned date of departure. 

The Government of France does not recognize the 12-page U.S. emergency passport, so this will not fulfill the travel requirements. If traveling on this emergency passport, you may be refused boarding and/or entry by immigration officials.

Visa Requirements

A tourist visa is not a travel requirement for U.S. citizens visiting France. U.S. citizens may enter France as a tourist without a visa and can stay up to 90 days in France. France’s travel requirements vary depending on the country you live in. While U.S. citizens do not need a travel visa, it is recommended to search the visa requirements for your country before booking your trip.

You may have heard about the ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorization System), originally scheduled to launch in 2024. This travel requirement would be needed for all U.S. citizens planning to travel to Europe. But luckily for Paris Olympics attendees, the ETIAS requirement has been pushed back to May 2025.

How to Find a Hotel for the Paris Olympics

Since this is a worldwide event, it’s a good idea to book your hotel as soon as possible. If you wait too long, you might have a hard time finding any open rooms that fit within your budget. Using a hotel booking site can help you find the best rates for a hotel close to the action!

What to Expect from the Paris Olympics

The 2024 Paris Olympics promise a great experience. Athletes will compete in a variety of sports, showing their skills and determination. The event will be a display of athletic excellence and a celebration of diverse cultures. Nations from around the world come together to participate in the Olympic spirit.

Event Schedule

The event schedule for Paris 2024 will be jam-packed with thrilling competitions. From the opening ceremony on July 26th that will kick off the festivities to the closing ceremony on August 11th that will bid farewell to the Games.

The world’s greatest athletes will be competing in a range of sports. 2024’s competitions include archery, swimming, diving, gymnastics, football (A.K.A. soccer), and more! Every moment will highlight the power of sports to unite people from different backgrounds.

Paris Olympics Venue Map

The Paris 2024 Olympics are not just in traditional sporting arenas. They will take place at the heart of the city and stretch across the entire Île-de-France region. The unique concept guiding the masterplan for the Paris 2024 Olympics includes a total of 35 venues. These venues are strategically positioned to create an immersive experience. The complete venue map can be found on the Paris Olympics website.

Simplify the Passport Application Process

The Paris 2024 Olympics are poised to captivate the world with their blend of athleticism, cultural exchange, and the unique charm of the host city. 

Make sure you have all of the travel requirements! Don’t let a missing or expired passport keep you from experiencing this amazing event. RushMyPassport can help you get your passport quickly and securely. Our experts personally review each application to eliminate errors. Get started today!

In this blog post, we’ll explore whether to renew your passport or submit a new passport application. We’ll also discuss the benefits of getting an expedited passport, which can be particularly helpful if you’re short on time and need your passport quickly.

So, whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a first-time globetrotter, read on to learn more about passport renewal vs. new passport applications, and how to get an expedited passport.

Passport Renewal

If you meet all of the qualifications listed below, you can renew your passport instead of having to apply for a new one:

• You were 16 or older when you applied for your most recent passport.
• You still have your most recent US passport, and it is undamaged and in good condition.
• Your passport is no more than 15 years old. Or in other words, if your adult passport with a ten-year validity is more than 5 years expired, you cannot renew it.
• If you’ve changed your name since your last passport was issued, you have legal documentation to support the name change.

Passport renewals can be done through the mail or in person. Applicants can visit their local post office for the application or fill it out online: Passport Renewal Form DS-82. Be sure to include a recent passport photo along with a check for government fees, and include your recent passport.

New Passport

• If your passport has been lost or damaged, you must apply in person for a new passport.
• If you were under the age of 16 when you got your current passport, you need to apply for a new one.
• If your passport is more than 15 years old, you’ll need a new one.
• If you’ve changed your name and don’t have the applicable paperwork, you’ll also need to apply for a new passport.

What’s the difference between applying for a passport renewal instead of a new passport?  When applying for a new passport, you have to go in person to a passport acceptance facility and fill out form DS-11, Application for a New Passport. Since you have to apply in person, you’ll pay a $35.00 execution fee in addition to the fees listed above.  Plus, you’ll need to bring proof of identity and proof of citizenship.

This step in the process is extremely important and can impact the time it takes to get your new passport.

After you’ve submitted your application, all you have to do is have patience and wait for your passport to arrive in the mail. It can take up to 8 weeks for routine processing.

How To Get Your Passport Fast

If you need a passport quickly, it is important to understand how soon you’re traveling, and how quickly you’ll need your passport to ensure its delivery prior to your trip. If you’re planning to leave the country sooner than later, you’ll likely need some type of expedited passport service.

Current routine processing for passports currently takes up to 8 weeks.  If you want to get your passport in time, it’s important to choose the right expediting method from the start.

Expedited Passport Service at a Passport Acceptance Office

One way to speed up the process of getting a passport is by requesting standard expedited services at the post office or another passport acceptance office. You’ll pay a $60 expediting fee in addition to your regular application fees. If you want overnight delivery, you’ll also pay an extra shipping fee.

Expediting at the post office generally gets you service in up to 3 weeks, and is not guaranteed. In addition, if there are any problems with your applications or documentation, your passport could possibly be delayed.

Expedited Passport Service at a Regional Passport Agency

There is another way to obtain a new passport, and that is to schedule an appointment with a Regional Passport Agency. However, there are some requirements you must meet. You must be departing for your international travel within 14 days or less, or if you’re leaving next month and need to get a visa before you travel.

In this situation, Regional Passport Agencies will typically get your passport to you within 8 business days. However, these appointments can be hard to obtain because there are only a handful of regional passport agencies serving the entire country, so you may have to travel to get to one near you.

Additionally, passport agencies often have limited operating hours. If you work during the day and can’t get time off, this may not be an option for you. At a Regional Passport Agency, you’ll pay the same additional $60 expediting fee you’d pay if you were applying for passport expedited service at a Passport Acceptance Office.

Using a Passport Expediting Company

If you need a passport sooner than a Passport Acceptance Office or the post office, but you can’t (or don’t want to) go to a regional passport agency, it may be worth considering using a private passport expediting company.

A registered passport expediting company will take your application to the Department of State, where it will be processed in as little as 7 business days. The company will then ship your new passport back to you, usually overnight.

Not only does using an expediting company reduce the time needed to receive a United States passport, but it also lessens the chance of errors that could delay your application. If there’s a setback at the passport office, the expediting company can inform you immediately so that corrections can be made, and your passport can be on its way to processing and back to you in time for your trip.

Get Your Passport Fast With RushMyPassport

If you need a passport quickly, but don’t have the time or patience to go to a passport agency, RushMyPassport can help. With services ranging from new passports, passport renewals, child passports, or replacing a lost or stolen passport, RushMyPassport is the most convenient way to get a passport in a hurry! Visit us online to get started, or visit a FedEx Office location near you!