US Passport Agencies Near You
Complete guide to all 26 regional passport offices – plus a faster, easier alternative that doesn’t require appointments.
🔑 Key Takeaways
- 26 regional passport agencies exist across the United States for urgent passport needs, requiring appointments and proof of travel within 14 days.
- Appointments are required at all agencies – call 1-877-487-2778 to schedule, but expect limited availability during peak travel seasons.
- Processing times range from same-day to 3 business days depending on your urgency and documentation completeness.
- Professional expediting services eliminate appointment hassles and provide expert document review, with service fees starting at $147 plus government fees.
- Regional agencies differ from 9,000+ acceptance facilities – agencies handle urgent cases only, while acceptance facilities process routine applications.
- Required documents include completed application forms (DS-11 for new, DS-82 for renewal), proof of citizenship, photo ID, passport photo, and proof of urgent travel.
- Alternative options exist for non-urgent situations including mail-in renewal for eligible applicants and local acceptance facilities for routine processing.
📋 Quick Navigation
What Are Regional Passport Agencies?
Understanding your options when you need a passport quickly
26
Regional Agencies Nationwide
1-3
Business Days Processing
14
Days Max Travel Window
9,000+
Acceptance Facilities Nationwide
Regional passport agencies are specialized U.S. Department of State facilities that serve American citizens who need passports for urgent international travel. Unlike the thousands of local passport acceptance facilities found at post offices and libraries nationwide, these 26 regional offices focus exclusively on time-sensitive passport applications and emergencies.
When Regional Agencies Are Your Option
Regional passport agencies serve specific urgent situations where standard processing won’t meet your needs. Understanding when these facilities are necessary versus when other options might work better can save you significant time and effort.
- Imminent international travel: You’re departing within 14 days (or within 4 weeks if you need a foreign visa for your destination)
- Life-or-death emergencies: Serious illness, injury, or death of an immediate family member abroad requiring urgent travel
- Lost or stolen passport: Your passport was lost or stolen and you have confirmed international travel within 2 weeks
- Damaged passport: Your current passport is significantly damaged and you’re traveling internationally soon
- Name changes: Recent legal name change with upcoming international travel that requires an updated passport
Important to Know: Regional passport agencies require appointments, which must be scheduled by calling the National Passport Information Center at 1-877-487-2778. You’ll need to provide documentation proving your urgent travel need, such as flight tickets or an itinerary. Appointments can be limited during peak travel seasons (summer months, major holidays).
Understanding Different Passport Services
It’s helpful to understand how regional agencies fit into the broader passport services landscape:
- Regional Passport Agencies (26 locations): Handle urgent/emergency applications requiring appointments – this page focuses on these facilities
- Passport Acceptance Facilities (9,000+ locations): Process routine applications at post offices, libraries, and government offices – no appointments needed for most
- Mail-in Renewal: Convenient option for eligible passport renewals (passport issued within last 15 years, in good condition, issued at age 16 or older)
- Expedited Services: Professional services like ours that handle urgent applications without requiring you to secure agency appointments
Related Passport Services & Forms
US Passport Services →
Complete guide to passport applications, renewals, and requirements
First Time Passport →
Step-by-step guide for applying for your first US passport
Passport Renewal →
Renew your passport by mail or in person – all options explained
Local Passport Office →
Find passport acceptance facilities near you for routine applications
DS-11 Form →
Application for first-time US passport (adults & children)
DS-82 Form →
US passport renewal application form
DS-5504 Form →
Passport corrections & name changes
DS-3053 Form →
Statement of consent for child passport application
Child Passport →
Requirements and process for minors under 16
Two Paths to Your Urgent Passport
Understanding both options helps you make the best choice for your situation
Regional Agency Process
- Call 1-877-487-2778 to schedule appointment
- Provide proof of urgent travel (tickets, itinerary)
- Appointments may be limited during peak seasons
- Visit agency in person during business hours
- Available at 26 cities nationwide
- Complete DS-11 or DS-82 form yourself
- Processing: Same-day to 3 business days
- Government fees: $190 (adult book) or $130 (renewal)
Professional Expediting Service
- No appointment scheduling required
- No need to prove urgent travel
- Available year-round, all seasons
- Complete passport application from home
- Service available nationwide
- Expert review of all documents and forms
- Processing: As fast as 3 business days
- Service fee from $147 + government fees
Peak Season Considerations: Regional agencies experience highest demand during summer months (June-August) and around major holidays (Thanksgiving, Christmas, Spring Break). If you’re planning travel during these periods, consider booking our expedited service early or allowing extra time for appointment scheduling. For routine applications, passport renewals by mail can be started 9-12 months before expiration.
How Our Service Works
A simple, streamlined process from start to finish
1
Choose Your Service
Select your processing speed (3-day, 2-day, or same-day) and complete our simple online order form. We handle new passports, renewals, and more.
2
Submit Documents
Send your documents via mail or visit one of our locations. We review everything for accuracy, including required forms.
3
We Process
Our team handles the entire process with the State Department on your behalf. No appointments needed, no hassle.
4
Receive Passport
Your new passport is shipped directly to you with tracking. Travel with confidence!
Processing Time Guarantee: We’ve successfully processed over 500,000 passports since 1992. Our established relationships with the State Department and experienced team ensure your passport is processed within your selected timeframe. Need help deciding between new passport applications and renewals? Our experts can guide you through the process.
Ready to Get Started?
Let our experts handle your urgent passport needs
Starting at $147 + Government Fees
Monday-Friday, 9am-5pm ET | Same-day quotes available
All 26 Regional Passport Agencies
Click any agency below for detailed information including address, phone, hours, and directions
💡 Tip: Click any marker to view agency details and get directions
Atlanta Passport Agency
Boston Passport Agency
Buffalo Passport Agency
Charlotte Passport Agency
Chicago Passport Agency
Colorado Passport Agency
Dallas Passport Agency
Denver Passport Agency
Detroit Passport Agency
El Paso Passport Agency
Honolulu Passport Agency
Arkansas Passport Center
Houston Passport Agency
Los Angeles Passport Agency
Miami Passport Agency
Minneapolis Passport Agency
New Orleans Passport Center
New York Passport Agency
Philadelphia Passport Agency
San Diego Passport Agency
San Francisco Passport Agency
San Juan Passport Agency
Seattle Passport Agency
Vermont Passport Agency
Connecticut Passport Agency
Tucson Passport Agency
Looking for routine passport services? If you don’t have urgent travel within 14 days, you have more options. Visit our local passport office finder to locate one of 9,000+ acceptance facilities near you, or learn about renewing your passport by mail for maximum convenience.
Can’t Secure an Appointment?
Our service provides the same urgent passport processing without the appointment hassle. Whether you need a new passport or a renewal, we handle everything.
Get Started NowDetailed Service Comparison
Compare your options side-by-side to make an informed decision
| Feature | Regional Agency (DIY) | Passports and Visas.com |
|---|---|---|
| Fastest Available | Same-day to 3 business days | Same-day to 3 business days |
| Appointment Required | Yes – must call to schedule | No appointment needed |
| Proof of Travel | Required (tickets/itinerary) | Not required |
| In-Person Visit | Yes – during business hours only | Optional (or mail documents) |
| Application Review | Self-review (errors delay processing) | Expert review included |
| Service Locations | 26 cities only | Nationwide + online |
| Document Courier | You handle transportation | We handle everything |
| Business Hours | Monday-Friday only | Submit anytime, 24/7 |
| New Passport Cost | $190 (govt fee only) | From $337 (includes service) |
| Renewal Cost | $130 (govt fee only) | From $277 (includes service) |
Cost Consideration: While DIY applications at regional agencies only charge government fees, consider the hidden costs: time off work, transportation to/from the agency (potentially requiring flights for distant locations), parking, and the risk of errors causing delays. Our service fee includes expert document review, courier service, and peace of mind. Learn more about all passport service options and costs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about passport agencies and urgent passport services
How do I get an appointment at a regional passport agency?
Call the National Passport Information Center at 1-877-487-2778 to schedule an appointment. You’ll need to provide proof of urgent international travel within 14 days, such as flight tickets or an itinerary. Appointments are required at all regional agencies. Be prepared to explain your travel urgency and have your travel documents ready when calling. You’ll need to complete either form DS-11 (new passport) or form DS-82 (renewal) before your appointment.
Can I walk into a passport agency without an appointment?
No, all 26 regional passport agencies require appointments for security and efficiency. Walk-ins are not accepted. If you arrive without an appointment, you will need to schedule one before being served. If you need urgent service without the appointment process, consider our professional expediting service. For routine applications that don’t require urgency, check our local passport office directory for nearby acceptance facilities.
What’s the difference between a passport agency and an acceptance facility?
Passport agencies (26 locations) handle urgent applications and can process passports in 1-3 business days, but require appointments and proof of urgent travel. Acceptance facilities (9,000+ post offices, libraries, etc.) accept routine applications with standard 8-11 week processing and generally don’t require appointments. Agencies are for emergencies; acceptance facilities are for advance planning. Learn more about local passport acceptance facilities or explore our guide to US passport services.
How fast can a regional passport agency process my passport?
Regional agencies typically process passports within 1-3 business days, with same-day service possible for true life-or-death emergencies when you’re traveling within 72 hours. Processing speed depends on your specific situation and documentation. Whether you need a first-time passport or a passport renewal, agencies can handle urgent requests with proper documentation and completed forms.
Is using a passport expediting service worth it?
Many travelers find professional expediting valuable for urgent situations. Benefits include: no need to secure an appointment, expert document review to prevent errors, door-to-door service, and peace of mind throughout the process. When you factor in travel time, time off work, and the convenience of having experts handle everything, many find the service fee worthwhile. We’ve successfully processed over 500,000 passports since 1992. Explore our full range of passport services to find the right option for you.
What documents do I need for a passport agency appointment?
You’ll need: (1) Completed DS-11 (first passport) or DS-82 (renewal) form, (2) Proof of US citizenship (birth certificate, previous passport, or naturalization certificate), (3) Valid government-issued photo ID, (4) One passport photo (2×2 inches), (5) Payment for government fees, and (6) Proof of urgent international travel. Missing documents will require rescheduling your appointment.
Which regional passport agency is closest to me?
The 26 regional passport agencies are located in: Atlanta, Boston, Buffalo, Charlotte, Chicago, Colorado Springs, Dallas, Denver, Detroit, El Paso, Honolulu, Hot Springs (AR), Houston, Los Angeles, Miami, Minneapolis, New Orleans, New York City, Philadelphia, San Diego, San Francisco, San Juan (PR), Seattle, St. Albans (VT), Stamford (CT), and Tucson. Use our complete agency directory above to find the nearest location with full details. If the nearest agency is far from you, consider our nationwide expediting service or check for local passport acceptance facilities in your area.
Can I renew my passport at a regional agency?
Yes, regional agencies handle both new applications and renewals for urgent travel situations. However, you must have proof of international travel within 14 days. If you don’t have urgent travel, standard renewal by mail using form DS-82 is more convenient and doesn’t require appointments. Note: Passports issued more than 15 years ago, damaged passports, or passports issued before age 16 cannot be renewed by mail and require a new application using form DS-11. Check our passport renewal guide to determine your eligibility.
Do I need a passport book, card, or both?
For international air travel, you need a passport book. The passport card is only valid for land and sea travel to Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Bermuda. Most travelers applying at regional agencies for urgent travel need the passport book. If you’re unsure which type you need, our passport services guide explains the differences in detail. Our experts can also help you determine the right option when you call 1-800-860-8610.
What if my child needs an urgent passport?
Children under 16 have different requirements and must apply in person with both parents present (or with notarized consent from the absent parent using form DS-3053). Regional agencies handle urgent child passport applications, but the same appointment and documentation requirements apply. Both parents must provide identification and the child must be present. All child passports require form DS-11. Our service can expedite child passports while ensuring all special requirements are properly handled. Learn more about passport requirements for minors.
Skip the Appointment Process
Join 500,000+ customers who chose the convenient path to urgent passport service
From $147 + Government Fees
Expert support available Monday-Friday, 9am-5pm ET