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How to Expedite a U.S. Passport That Is Already "In Process"

Complete phone script, fee authorizations, and escalation procedures for speeding up an active application when sudden travel plans arise.

Quick Answer • In-Process Escalation

If you originally submitted your application under routine service and now have urgent travel, you can upgrade your pending file by calling the National Passport Information Center at 1-877-487-2778. You must provide your 9-digit locator number, your confirmed travel itinerary, and a credit card to authorize the $60.00 expediting fee plus the optional $21.36 1-2 day delivery fee.

Step-by-Step Phone Upgrade Procedure

  1. Gather Your Information Before Calling:
    • Your 9-digit application locator number.
    • Confirmed flight reservation details (airline, flight number, departure airport, and departure date).
    • Credit card (Visa, MasterCard, Discover, or American Express).
  2. Call NPIC at the Best Time: Dial 1-877-487-2778 at 8:00 AM Eastern Time sharp to minimize hold times. Press option 1 for English, then follow prompts for existing applications.
  3. Speak to an Adjudication Specialist: State clearly: "My application is In Process under Locator [Number], and I need to place an Urgent Travel Notice on my file and authorize payment for expedited service and 1-2 day return delivery."
  4. Note the Reference Code: The representative will transmit an electronic priority dispatch to the specific federal agency holding your file. Record the representative's ID and timestamp.

Urgent Travel Within 5 Business Days

Emergency In-Person Appointments: If your flight departs within 5 business days and your passport has still not been assigned a USPS tracking number, calling NPIC will allow the representative to check for emergency in-person appointment slots at one of the 29 regional passport agencies nationwide. At an in-person appointment, your passport can be printed on-site the same day.