Typically, a getting a passport is something that eats up quite a bit of time and then involves waiting around until the processing agency pulls your file. Normally, this will take about 2 months for someone that has to get a new passport. However, there are times when waiting that long will simply not do and a 24 hour passport is needed.

Most people will not ever need to get a 24 hour passport, but unexpected situations may arise that cause for rush processing. If an emergency situation happens for someone that has never had a passport, they better get ready to do some running. It is best to have everything together that is needed the moment that they walk into the passport office.

The U.S. Department of State specifies that a 24 hour passport should only be given to someone who has suffered a death, serious injury, or serious illness overseas to someone in their immediate family. In the case of injury or illness, the family member must be hospitalized. In the event of such an emergency, applicants are encouraged to call the State Department Passport hotline.

Many external agencies promise to help customers obtain passports as quickly as possible. While these agencies are often very helpful, it is quite difficult to make any promises regarding passports. Getting a passport in one day is difficult for a variety of reasons.

Obviously, it is much easier to obtain a passport renewal in twenty-four hours than it is to obtain a new passport. Sometimes passport renewals can be done electronically, or temporary emergency renewals may be granted via the Internet. Emergency applicants that only need a passport renewal often stand a very good chance of having their request granted in a timely fashion.

New passport applicants face a much more challenging road than passport renewal applicants. Because everything has to be done in person, it can make the while process a bit more difficult. For those that live in small towns, they may have to travel hundreds of miles to a passport office that can provide the services that they need.

Also keep in mind that when rush service is requested, try to make an early appointment or get there as soon as the office is opening. This will get the application into the loop that much faster and hopefully get it processed within the time frame that is needed. When using these services, make sure a reputable company is used if you are stepping outside the government offices. They will have the process in place and will be more likely to make the turnaround happen.

While trying to get a 24 hour U.S. passport can be challenging, the task can be completed. Now having said that, this is something that nobody should ever have to go through because of the cost and time commitment, not to mentions stress. Play it safe and get a U.S. passport because anything can happen at any time and you just never know when an international trip is on the horizon.