How to Change Your Passport from Routine to Expedited
You applied for a routine passport, thinking you had plenty of time. Then plans changed, perhaps a business trip came up, a family event was scheduled overseas, or flight deals were too good to pass up. Now you’re wondering, can you change your passport from routine to expedited?
The short answer is yes. In many cases, you can expedite your application, but the process depends on the current status of your request. From adding the right fees to choosing the correct submission method, timing is everything.
In this guide, you’ll find a clear, step-by-step process for switching to expedited service and the fastest way to submit your request.
If you’re short on time and want to skip the long lines, Get My Passports can process applications in as little as 3–5 business days. Call (708) 360-7277 today and we’ll guide you through every step.
Quick Overview
Yes, you can change your passport application from routine to expedited after submission if you follow the correct process.
It is best to act quickly because early requests have a higher chance of meeting your travel date.
You must add the $60 expedite fee and send the correct form (DS-11 or DS-82) with complete documentation to avoid delays.
For urgent travel, you can visit a Regional Passport Agency with proof of travel for same-day or 72-hour service.
Avoid common mistakes such as incomplete forms, incorrect photos, or missing signatures, as they can slow down expedited processing.
Step-by-Step: Changing from Routine to Expedited
Switching your application to expedited service is straightforward if you follow each step carefully. Here’s exactly what to do from start to finish.
Step 1: Confirm If You Qualify for Expedited Processing
Expedited service is meant for situations where you can’t wait the standard 6–8 weeks for a routine passport. You’ll need to meet certain criteria or have a specific need for faster processing. Common situations include:
Urgent international travel: Your departure is soon enough that routine processing will not be completed in time.
Upcoming visa deadlines: You need your passport quickly to apply for a visa from a foreign embassy or consulate.
Legal name changes before travel: Your passport must match your travel documents.
Lost, stolen, or damaged passports: You need a replacement before an upcoming trip.
Processing Time Comparison:
Service Type | Approximate Timeline | Requirements |
Routine | 6–8 weeks | None |
Expedited by Mail/Facility | 2–3 weeks | Add $60 expedited fee. This is faster than routine, but still weeks away. |
Regional Agency | Same-day or 72 hours | Proof of travel required. Works if you can visit in person. |
Get My Passports | 3–5 business days or 72 hours | No lines, full document handling. Fastest, most convenient option without in-person visits |
Also check: How to Handle Urgent Passport Delays.
Step 2: Calculate All Costs Upfront
Before switching to expedited service, it's helpful to know exactly what you’ll pay.
Government Fees:
Expedite fee: $60
1–2 day delivery after issuance: $22.05
Passport book renewal: $130
Get My Passports Service Fees:
3–5 business days: $399
10–14 days: $299
21 days: $249
Note: Government fees are paid directly to the U.S. Department of State. Service fees cover professional document review, error correction, and priority hand-delivery.
Step 3: Fill Out the Correct Passport Form
Using the right form is essential for avoiding delays:
DS-11: For first-time applicants, minors under 16, or if your passport is lost, stolen, or damaged.
DS-82: For renewals, if you meet the eligibility requirements.
Tip: Use black ink, print clearly, and ensure every detail matches the information on your identification exactly. Even small inconsistencies can cause processing delays.
Step 4: Gather Required Documents
Ensure you have all the necessary paperwork ready, as missing even one item can delay your application.
Proof of U.S. citizenship: Original or certified birth certificate, previous U.S. passport, or naturalization certificate.
Proof of identity: Valid driver’s license, government-issued ID, or military ID.
Passport photo: Must meet U.S. State Department standards: 2x2 inches, white background, neutral expression.
Get My Passports also offers on-site, compliant passport photos so you don’t risk rejection for incorrect sizes or poor quality.
You can also check our blog for information on Acceptable Proof of Travel for Expedited Passports.
Step 5: Label and Submit for Expedited Service
How you submit depends on your chosen method:
By mail: Write “EXPEDITE” in bold on the outer envelope.
In person: Tell the agent you need expedited service when applying at an acceptance facility or regional agency.
Through an expeditor: Simply hand over your documents; they’ll handle same-day agency delivery for you.
The most common mistakes are using the wrong form, missing signatures, or submitting non-compliant photos.
Step 6: Choose the Right Submission Location
Where you submit your application affects how fast you’ll get your passport.
Expedited by mail: Send to the expedited address listed on travel.state.gov; takes about 2–3 weeks.
Regional Passport Agency: Requires an appointment and proof of travel within 14 days; processing can be same-day or within 72 hours.
Through Get My Passports: No agency appointment needed. We hand-deliver and collect your passport in just 3–5 business days or within 72 hours.
Step 7: Pay All Required Fees
Every passport application, expedited or routine, requires specific payments, and the amounts depend on the type of service you choose. Making sure these are paid correctly is crucial for smooth processing.
Government fees: Must be paid via check or money order made out to “U.S. Department of State”. Cash or card payments are not accepted for this portion.
Get My Passports service fees: Can be paid by credit card, debit card, or other accepted payment methods directly to the company.
Double-check totals: Add government and service fees together before submission. A missing or incorrect payment can result in your application being sent back, delaying your passport.
Recommended: Everything You Need to Know About Expedited Passport and Visa Services in Chicago.
Step 8: Track Your Application
Tracking helps you stay informed about the current status of your passport and when to expect it.
Government tracking: Visit travel.state.gov and use the “Check My Status” tool. You’ll need your last name, date of birth, and the last four digits of your Social Security number.
Get My Passports tracking: The team provides real-time updates directly to you via email, text, or phone, so you know exactly when your application is submitted, processed, and ready for delivery.
Step 9: Prepare for Special Circumstances
Some situations require extra documentation, and missing it can cause delays.
Lost or stolen passport: Fill out Form DS-64 (Statement Regarding Lost or Stolen Passport) and submit it with Form DS-11 (Application for a U.S. Passport).
Name changes: Provide legal proof such as a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order.
Minors under 16: Both parents or legal guardians must appear in person with the child. If one parent can’t attend, a signed and notarized Form DS-3053 (Statement of Consent) is required, along with a photocopy of the non-appearing parent’s ID.
Step 10: Optional — Expedite Through Get My Passports
The government’s expedited passport service can still take weeks, requires in-person visits to a regional agency, and offers little to no guidance — meaning mistakes or incorrect photos can lead to costly delays. There’s no personalized review, and you’re responsible for every step, from booking appointments to ensuring documents meet strict requirements.
Get My Passports changes that completely. We manage the process end-to-end, helping you skip long lines, avoid errors, and receive your passport in as little as 3–5 business days, or even 72 hours for urgent needs. As an officially registered partner with the U.S. Department of State, we combine speed, security, and expert support so you can travel stress-free.
Our Services Include:
Faster turnaround and delivery in 3–5 business days or 72 hours for urgent cases
End-to-end handling, no DMV or acceptance facility visits required
30-minute expert consultation to prevent costly application mistakes
Compliant passport photos with guaranteed correct size and quality
Secure, registered processing with an on-time delivery guarantee
English and Spanish bilingual support
Live passport tracking and real-time status updates
Hand-delivery to passport agencies when needed
Rated 5 stars on Google Maps for speed, accuracy, and service, we are a trusted Chicago-based passport expediting service you can rely on. Call (708) 360-7277 or book your appointment today to get started.
Conclusion
When travel plans are on the line, waiting weeks or even months for a passport isn’t an option. Unfortunately, delays, long lines, and last-minute changes can turn a simple application into a stressful race against time.
The key is acting fast and choosing a process that works on your timeline, not the government’s. With Get My Passports, you can switch to expedited service at any stage and avoid costly delays. Rated 5 stars on Google Maps for speed, accuracy, and service, we’re the Chicago passport experts you can rely on. Call (708) 360-7277 or visit our Chicago office today. We’ll handle everything from start to finish so you can travel with confidence.