The Daily Journal

Travel planning by its very definition can be stressful. There are so many things to do, especially when talking about international travel. The trip taker must pack for different climates, get plane tickets, their passport and many other things. Often times, people are prepared but for those who forget, there may be the need for a American passport rush.

You Need A Passport

By going through the government entities, a traveler has three options: expedited service, routine service and life or death emergency service. In this case, the traveler needs expedited service. You will also need to make sure you have all the necessary materials.

You Need An Itinerary

According to the US State Department, there are a number of items the traveler will need to begin the process. You will need the necessary forms from the federal government, proof of citizenship like a birth certificate, a valid photo ID, your social security card, the application fees and your expected date of travel.

You Need Help

While the US government is trying to change things to make it easier to obtain these in shorter amounts of time, it may still be much faster to get an outside agency to assist. The federal government suggests visiting a passport agency, mailing in your application to the U. S. Department of State, visiting a local post office or checking with your county clerk.

You Need Documents

Whether you choose to take the steps to get one yourself or hire a third party to do it for you, the traveler must have the following items: the proper form from the US government, proof of citizenship, a valid photo ID, two passport photos, your social security number and the application fees. You may also be required to provide travel ticket information or your itinerary.

You Must Pay The Fee

If the traveler chooses to handle the matter personally, the application fee may be expensive for anyone over 18 years of age. For anyone under 18, it may cost a bit less. Expedited passports cost more than the regular ones, however. Payment methods depend on whether you mail your application materials or visit an agency.

You Need A Speedy Delivery

If the traveler chooses to hire an outside agency, there may be even greater chance of getting the document faster. Some websites offer services ranging from the normal speed to 24 hours. The costs associated reflect the speed at which you would like the ID delivered.

You Can Track The Progress

A system is in place to track your pasport rush’s progress as well. You will need the number given to you by the federal government or local agency. Then again, it may just be easier to pay a little more and let a third-party handle the worrying for you.

Sometimes a United States passport rush is the only way to guarantee it will come in on time. You can also rush other passport services like a United States passport name change or a passport renewal.