Lost or expired passports are not valid for use so they must be replaced if the traveler wishes to venture out of the country. Passport replacement may take up to eight weeks if the passport holder deals directly with the federal government. Though this might be adequate for some people, others will find that they need a new passport within a shorter time.

By going on the Internet and conducting a quick search, one can find a myriad of providers that can help get a new one in as little as 1 to 2 business days if necessary. These services do charge a fee above and beyond that of the standard issuing charge but this can be well worth it should an emergency replacement be needed. The fee can range anywhere from an extra $150.00 to $300.00 per passport, depending on how quickly the new one is needed.

These independent companies have established relationships with the government agency that issues passports. They are able to push the passport application through quicker than the passport applicant is able to do on his or her own. The best an applicant could do in non-emergency situations is selected expedited processing through the government and this service still runs about three to four weeks.

The passport applicant bears some responsibility when working with an independent processing service. The applicant must complete the standard government application for a passport as well as some additional forms required by the processing company. The government application may be found on either the government’s Web site or the processing company’s site. The processing company provides a full set of instructions regarding form completion, just as the government does.

New photographs will also be necessary when applying for a replacement and should be done to conform to the guidelines set by the issuing agency. The pictures must be 2” by 2” in size and identical in every way. The easiest way to ensure they are correct is by using a service or photographer that specializes in passport photography as they will know what is needed to meet all the requirements.

The application, photos, and additional required identification will need to be provided to the processing company. This information should be mailed in one package and sent via a service that permits tracking of parcels. The tracking service provides real-time verification that the package arrived safely. The couriers that offer package tracking also often provide expedited shipping, making it possible to select overnight delivery..

When mailing the package to the processing company, include the existing passport. The company will have this passport canceled so it is no longer valid for use. They will return it to the passport holder to keep in permanent records.

If the U.S. passport needs replacement due to being lost or stolen, the holder should report the loss when it occurs. The government will note that the passport is not valid for use. If the lost passport is later recovered, the holder may return it to the government for cancellation. Whether lost, stolen, or expired, USA Passport replacement is relatively quick and easy, especially when an outside company is used to expedite processing.