You’ve already applied for your US passport… that’s great! Whether it’s the passport book or the passport card, both are super important when you’re planning a trip or getting ready for a vacation. And the best part? With a US passport, you can travel to more than 180 countries without a visa. Not bad, right?
Now, I’m not going to sugarcoat it—once you send in your application, it can take several weeks for your passport to arrive. So, if you’re thinking about buying plane tickets, you might want to hold off. Make sure to check the status of your US passport application so you don’t get caught off guard.
But can you check the status of your US passport application? Of course you can. Read on, and I’ll show you how.
But first, let’s talk about…
How long does it take to get a US passport?
The average processing time for a US passport is 4 to 6 weeks. This timeline applies whether you’re getting the passport book or the card.
Now, if you paid extra for expedited service, the wait is shorter – about 2 to 3 weeks. But remember, that’s just for the processing and printing. You must also consider the mailing time, which can take up to 4 more weeks- two weeks for your application to reach the office and two more for the passport to arrive at your door.
The good news is that you can speed things up.
Use Priority Mail Express to ensure your application arrives faster. Alternatively, for an additional $21.36, you can request 1-2 day delivery of your passport once it’s ready.
Note: This last option is unavailable if you’ve only applied for the Passport Card.
Learn more: US Passport vs Card: Which Should You Choose?
The clock resets if you receive an email or letter asking for more documents. This can delay the process, so respond as soon as possible. That’s why it’s essential to keep checking the status of your US passport application. That way, you’ll know if they’re still asking for something or if your passport is already on its way.
Now, let’s move on…
How to check status of US passport application
There are three ways to check the status of your US passport application: by email, online, or by phone.
Checking the status of your US passport application by Email
Just to be clear, you can’t send an email to ask about your status. But if you include your email address on your application, the agency will send you updates as your passport progresses.
It’s not the most detailed way to track things, but at least you won’t be in the dark. Just make sure you provide the correct email on your application. And if you’ve changed it, you can update it to continue receiving notifications.
Check your passport status online
This is hands-down the best way to track the status of your US passport application. It’s quick, easy, and available anytime from your phone, tablet, or computer.
Just visit the official US Department of State website.
If you just submitted your application, don’t panic if you don’t see any information immediately. It can take up to 14 days for your status to appear in the system. Until then, you’ll see “not available.
Once you’re in, you’ll need to enter three things:
- Your last name
- Your date of birth
- The last four digits of your Social Security Number
That’s it. After that, you’ll see the real-time status of your US passport application. Now, don’t expect much detail, it’ll just show you what stage your passport is in.
Checking your passport status by phone
You can check the status of your US passport application by phone. Call the National Passport Information Center at 1-877-487-2778 (or 1-888-874-7793 if you are hearing impaired), and speak with a customer service representative. Their hours are Monday through Friday, 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. ET, and Saturday, 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. ET.
Now, like when we talked about checking your citizenship status, this should be your last resort. Phone lines are usually busy, and wait times can be long. Also, don’t expect to get much more information than on the website. The agent will tell you what stage your passport is in without giving any extra details about any delays.
So, only call if you need to talk to someone and you’ve tried everything else.
What do passport status updates mean?
When you go online to track the status of your US passport application, you’ll see one of the following statuses: Not Available, In Process, Approved, or Sent.
But what do they mean?
- Not Available: This can mean one of two things. Either your application has not yet reached the processing center (which can take up to two weeks), or there is a temporary system problem.
- In Process: Your application has been received and reviewed by the Department of State.
- Approved: Good news! Your application has been approved, and your passport has been printed.
- Passport Sent: They sent your passport to the address you provided. To get the tracking number, return to the same website and enter your information.
- Supporting Documents Sent: If you submit original documents, such as an old passport, birth certificate, or naturalization certificate, they will be mailed to you separately. Don’t worry if they arrive in different envelopes.
What if my passport hasn’t arrived?
If your US passport application status says “mailed,” but it’s been more than 14 days and you still haven’t received it, call the National Passport Information Center at 1-877-487-2778 (or 1-888-874-7793 if you’re hearing impaired).
Remember the hours: Monday through Friday, 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m., and Saturday, 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Eastern Time.
The agent will help you complete Form DS-86 to report your missing passport.
Important: You have up to 90 days from when the passport was issued to report it. If you miss that window, you must reapply and pay the full fee. And if the passport shows up after you’ve reported it, you won’t be able to use it – it will arrive canceled.
If your passport still hasn’t arrived and your trip is within 14 days, call the Passport Information Center. They can alert the agency handling your case to expedite the process.
If you have a family emergency and need to travel within the next three business days, call the same number to request an emergency appointment. If you qualify and can verify your emergency and travel date, you may be able to get an appointment.
And if you need to call after regular business hours or on a federal holiday, call 202-647-4000. But remember, the numbers are for emergencies only.
Summing up…
The best way to check the status of your US passport application is online using the official tracking system. If you provided your email when you applied, you’ll receive updates directly to your inbox.
You should only call in exceptional circumstances – for example, if it’s been more than two weeks since your passport was marked “mailed” and you still don’t have it, or if your trip is less than 14 days away and your passport hasn’t arrived. It’s also a good option if you have a last-minute emergency.
Do you have questions about your case, the timeline, or any step in the process? Leave them in the comments, we’re happy to help!