What do you need to get a 24 hour passport?

Need a Passport Today? How to Navigate the 24-Hour Rush

Life throws curveballs, and sometimes those curveballs involve needing a passport right now. While obtaining a passport within 24 hours is a challenging endeavor, it’s not entirely impossible. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need to give yourself the best chance of success:

1. The Complete and Flawless Application:

This is the foundation of your request. Accuracy is paramount. Download the appropriate application form (typically Form DS-11 for first-time applicants or those who’ve lost their passport) from the U.S. Department of State website. Fill it out completely and legibly, double-checking for any errors. Even a minor mistake can cause a delay. Make sure the information you provide matches your other documents.

2. The Perfect Passport Photo:

Your passport photo must meet specific requirements. It must be:

• Recent: Taken within the last six months.
• Color: No black and white photos are accepted.
• Size: Precisely 2×2 inches.
• Background: Plain white or off-white.
• Expression: Neutral expression, both eyes open, facing directly at the camera.
• Clothing: Everyday attire; uniforms or clothing resembling uniforms are not permitted (except for religious attire worn daily).

You can often get passport photos taken at drugstores, photo studios, or shipping companies. If possible, call ahead to confirm they have experience with passport photos and can meet the strict requirements.

3. Valid Photo Identification:

You need to prove your identity. Acceptable forms of photo ID include:

• A valid driver’s license.
• A previously issued, undamaged U.S. passport (even if expired).
• A certificate of naturalization.
• A certificate of citizenship.
• A military ID.

The photo ID should be original and not a photocopy.

4. The Crucial Element: Proof of Urgent International Travel:

This is where things get critical. A standard passport agency will not expedite your passport to a 24-hour turnaround without compelling evidence. You must demonstrate a genuine emergency that requires immediate international travel. This usually means one of two scenarios:

• Life-or-Death Emergency: This involves a serious illness, injury, or death of an immediate family member (parent, child, sibling, spouse) residing abroad.
• Time-Sensitive Travel for Business: Although less common, proof of urgent business travel may be accepted, especially if it directly impacts the economy or national security.

5. Supporting Documentation for Your Emergency:

Simply stating you have an emergency isn’t enough. You need documents that convincingly support your claim. Examples include:

• For Life-or-Death Emergencies:
  • A death certificate (if applicable).
  • A letter from a hospital or doctor confirming the illness or injury of the family member.
  • Proof of relationship to the person in need (e.g., birth certificate, marriage certificate).
• For Urgent Business Travel:
  • A letter from your employer explaining the urgency of the travel.
  • Relevant contracts or agreements demonstrating the importance of your trip.

6. Scheduling an Appointment (and Persistence):

You will need to contact the National Passport Information Center (NPIC) or visit the Department of State website to attempt to schedule an emergency appointment at a regional passport agency. Be prepared for potentially long hold times and limited availability. Explain the urgency of your situation clearly and concisely.

Important Considerations:

• Fees: Be prepared to pay expedited processing fees in addition to the standard passport application fee.
• Payment: Have a valid form of payment (credit card, money order, or cashier’s check) ready.
• Regional Passport Agencies: Not all regional passport agencies are equipped to handle 24-hour turnaround requests. Focus your efforts on agencies located in major cities.
• Third-Party Expeditors: While some companies offer expedited passport services, they cannot guarantee a 24-hour turnaround and often come with hefty fees. Consider these options carefully.
• No Guarantees: Even with all the right documents and a compelling reason, a 24-hour passport turnaround is not guaranteed.

In conclusion, obtaining a passport within 24 hours is an uphill battle. Thorough preparation, meticulous documentation, and a genuine emergency are essential. While success is not guaranteed, focusing on the steps outlined above will give you the best possible chance of securing your passport in time.