How to Schedule Your Passport Appointment at a Local Acceptance Facility

Book your appointment online or by phone before you go in person

Most passport appointments in the United States are booked through the State Department's official scheduling system at passports.state.gov. You can reserve a time slot online, which is usually faster than calling. If you prefer to book by phone, call 1-877-487-2778 (toll-free, Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. to midnight Eastern time).

The appointment system shows you available dates and times at acceptance facilities near your zip code. You choose the location and time that work for you, then confirm your booking. The system sends you a confirmation number by email — save this number and bring it with you on your appointment day.

Walk-in appointments are not accepted at most facilities, so booking ahead is necessary. A few locations may hold limited same-day slots, but these fill quickly and are not may provide.

Key Takeaways

• Book your appointment at passports.state.gov or by calling 1-877-487-2778 before your visit — walk-ins are not accepted at most locations.
• You will need your confirmation number, a valid photo ID, proof of citizenship, and proof of your Social Security number on the day of your appointment.
• Appointment availability varies by location and season; rural areas and winter months often have longer waits than urban areas in summer.
• Bring the completed passport form (DS-11 for a new passport, DS-82 for renewal) along with your documents to speed up the process.

What documents to bring to your appointment

Bring your confirmation number and a valid photo ID — a driver's license, state ID, or military ID all work. You also need proof of citizenship, which means an original or certified copy of your birth certificate, naturalization certificate, or previous passport. A photocopy is not enough.

Bring proof of your Social Security number. This can be your Social Security card, a W-2 form, a tax return, or a bank statement with your number on it. You do not need to bring the original Social Security card itself.

If you are renewing a passport that is not damaged or lost, you may be able to use the mail-in process instead of an in-person appointment. Check the State Department website to see whether your situation qualifies for the simpler renewal path.

Complete your passport form before you arrive

Fill out form DS-11 (Application for a U.S. Passport) if this is your first passport or if your current one is expired, lost, stolen, or damaged. Fill out form DS-82 (U.S. Passport Renewal Application) if you are renewing a valid passport and meet the renewal conditions. Both forms are available at passports.state.gov.

Print the form and sign it in front of the acceptance agent — do not sign it before your appointment. Bring the unsigned form with you. If you bring a completed and signed form, the agent may ask you to sign it again in their presence anyway, which can slow down your appointment.

You can also fill out the form on a computer and print it, or write it by hand. Either way, use black or blue ink and write clearly.

Bring a photo that meets State Department rules

Your passport photo must be 2 by 2 inches, taken within the last six months, and show your face straight-on against a white or off-white background. You cannot wear sunglasses, a hat, or anything that covers your face, though religious head coverings are permitted if they do not hide your face.

Many acceptance facilities have a photo service on-site or can direct you to a nearby location that takes passport photos. CVS, Walgreens, and UPS stores also offer passport photo services. A photo usually costs between $10 and $20. If you already have a photo that meets the rules, bring it with you.

Know how long your appointment will take

Most passport appointments last 15 to 30 minutes, though the exact time depends on how busy the facility is and whether your documents are in order. Arrive 10 to 15 minutes early. If you bring incomplete documents, the appointment may take longer or you may be asked to reschedule.

After your appointment, the acceptance agent sends your application to a passport processing center. Standard processing takes 6 to 8 weeks. Expedited processing takes 2 to 3 weeks but costs an extra $60. You cannot choose expedited processing at the appointment itself — you must request it when you book or pay the fee at the facility.

What to expect if you need a passport urgently

If you need your passport within two weeks, you can request expedited processing and pay an additional fee. Some passport agencies also offer same-day or next-day service for people traveling within 72 hours, but this service is only available at certain locations and requires you to go in person with proof of your travel plans.

Check passports.state.gov to see whether your nearest facility offers expedited in-person service. If it does, you can call ahead to ask about availability. Bring your flight confirmation, cruise ticket, or other proof of travel with you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can someone else book an appointment for me?

Yes, a family member or friend can book the appointment for you online using your information. However, you must be present in person at the appointment — the acceptance agent will not process your application if you do not show up yourself.

What if I cannot make my appointment?

Cancel your appointment through passports.state.gov or by calling 1-877-487-2778 as soon as you know you cannot attend. This frees up the time slot for someone else. You can then book a new appointment at a different time.

Do I need an appointment if I am renewing my passport by mail?

No. If your passport is valid and not damaged, you can renew it by mail without an appointment. Mail the completed DS-82 form, your current passport, a new photo, and the renewal fee directly to the address on the State Department website.

What if the nearest facility has no appointments available for months?

Check facilities in nearby cities or counties — sometimes a 30-minute drive opens up much sooner availability. You can also call 1-877-487-2778 to ask whether any locations have cancellations. If you need your passport urgently, ask about expedited in-person service at agencies that offer it.

Can I change my appointment date or time?

Yes. Log into passports.state.gov with your confirmation number and reschedule, or call 1-877-487-2778. You can change your appointment as many times as you need before the scheduled date.