How to Check Passport Status
The United States passport is a valuable document that allows you to travel to over 180 countries without a visa. It is important to keep your passport up-to-date, as it will expire every 10 years for adults and 5 years for children under 16.
If you are applying for a new passport or renewing your old one, you can check the status of your application online. This will allow you to see where your application is in the process and when you can expect to receive your passport.
How to Check Passport Status Online
To check your passport status online, you will need to visit the U.S. Department of State’s passport website: https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/passports.html.
Once you are on the website, click on the "Check Passport Status" link. You will then be asked to enter your last name and date of birth. Once you have entered this information, click on the "Submit" button.
The website will then display the status of your passport application. You will be able to see if your application has been received, is being processed, or has been approved. If your passport has been approved, you will be able to download a tracking number that you can use to track the shipment of your passport.
How to Check Passport Status by Phone
You can also check your passport status by phone by calling the National Passport Information Center at 1-877-487-2778. You will need to provide your last name, date of birth, and Social Security number when you call.
The operator will be able to tell you the status of your passport application and provide you with a tracking number if your passport has been approved.
How to Check Passport Status by Mail
You can also check your passport status by mail by sending a letter to the National Passport Processing Center. The address is:
National Passport Processing Center
PO Box 90955
Philadelphia, PA 19190-0955
In your letter, you will need to include your last name, date of birth, Social Security number, and a photocopy of your government-issued ID. You will also need to include a self-addressed, stamped envelope so that the National Passport Processing Center can send you a response.
How Long Does It Take to Get a Passport?
The processing time for a passport can vary depending on the time of year and the volume of applications. However, you can expect to receive your passport within 4-6 weeks of applying. If you need your passport sooner, you can pay an additional fee for expedited processing.
What If My Passport Is Lost or Stolen?
If your passport is lost or stolen, you will need to report it to the U.S. Department of State immediately. You can do this online, by phone, or by mail.
To report a lost or stolen passport online, visit the U.S. Department of State’s website: https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/passports/have-lost-stolen-passport.html.
To report a lost or stolen passport by phone, call the National Passport Information Center at 1-877-487-2778.
To report a lost or stolen passport by mail, send a letter to the National Passport Processing Center. The address is:
National Passport Processing Center
PO Box 90955
Philadelphia, PA 19190-0955
FAQ
- How often do I need to renew my passport?
Adults need to renew their passports every 10 years. Children under 16 need to renew their passports every 5 years.
- How much does it cost to get a passport?
The cost of a passport depends on the type of passport you are applying for. The fee for a standard passport book is $110 for adults and $80 for children under 16. The fee for a passport card is $30 for adults and $15 for children under 16.
- How can I get a passport expedited?
You can get a passport expedited by paying an additional fee. The fee for expedited processing is $60. If you need your passport expedited, you will need to submit your application in person at a passport acceptance facility.
- What is the difference between a passport book and a passport card?
A passport book is a traditional passport that you can use to travel to any country. A passport card is a smaller, cheaper passport that you can use to travel to Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Bermuda.
- Can I travel with an expired passport?
No, you cannot travel with an expired passport. If you try to travel with an expired passport, you will be denied entry to the country you are trying to visit.
