Understanding the Passport Application Lifecycle
Before diving into the tracking methods, it’s helpful to understand the basic stages your application goes through. Once you mail your application or submit it at an acceptance facility, it is sent to a lockbox facility for initial sorting and fee processing. From there, it is forwarded to a passport agency or center for adjudication. A government agent will review your documents, verify your identity, and approve or deny the application. If approved, your passport is printed, quality-checked, and finally, mailed to you. The tracking system gives you a window into this multi-step process.
Information You’ll Need to Track Your Status
- Last Name: Include suffixes like Jr, Sr, III, if applicable. Be sure to use the exact name you wrote on your application.
- Date of Birth: In the format of MM/DD/YYYY.
- Last Four Digits of Your Social Security Number (SSN): This is a key identifier used in the verification process.
Having this information ready will make the tracking process quick and seamless.
Method 1: The Online Passport Status System (Recommended)
The fastest and most convenient way to check your passport status is through the official Online Passport Status System managed by the U.S. Department of State. The system is available 24/7 and provides the most up-to-date information on your application.
How to Use the Online Portal: A Step-by-Step Guide
- Navigate to the official passport status webpage on the State Department’s website.
- Locate the tracking form, which will ask for the three pieces of information mentioned above: your last name, date of birth, and the last four digits of your SSN.
- Carefully enter your information into the respective fields. Double-check for any typos, as even a small error can result in a ‘Not Found’ status.
- Complete the security captcha to prove you are not a robot.
- Click the ‘Submit’ button to view your status.
It’s important to note that it can take up to two weeks from the day you apply for your application to be trackable in the online system. If you check too soon, don’t be alarmed if your status isn’t found.
Decoding the Online Status Messages
The online system will display one of several statuses. Understanding what each one means is key to managing your expectations.
Status: Not Found
If you see this message, it typically means one of three things: your application is still in transit to the processing facility, it has not yet been scanned into the system, or there might be a typo in the information you entered. Wait a few more business days and try again, carefully re-entering your details. It can take up to 14 days for a new application to become trackable.
Status: In Process
This is the status your application will have for the majority of the waiting period. ‘In Process’ means your application has been received by a passport agency or center and is currently undergoing review. This stage covers everything from the initial document check to the final adjudication by a government official. Your application could remain ‘In Process’ for several weeks without any change, which is completely normal.
Status: Approved
Congratulations! This status means your application has been fully reviewed and approved. The next step is the printing of your passport book and/or card. This is a positive sign that you are in the final stages of the process. Typically, your passport will be printed and mailed within about 10 business days of being approved.
Status: Mailed
This is the final status. It means your new passport has been shipped and is on its way to you. The system will often provide a tracking number for the delivery. Keep in mind that your passport book and supporting documents (like your birth certificate) are mailed in separate packages and may arrive on different days.
Pro Tip: Sign Up for Automatic Email Updates
Instead of manually checking the website every day, you can register for automatic email updates. On the same online status portal, you will find an option to enter your email address. Once you sign up, you will receive notifications whenever your application status changes. This is the most efficient way to stay informed without the stress of constant manual checks.
Method 2: Tracking Your Passport Status by Phone
If you are unable to access the online system or have a more complex question about your application, you can contact the National Passport Information Center (NPIC). This is a useful option if your travel date is approaching and your application is still in process.
To check your status by phone, call 1-877-487-2778 (TDD/TTY users: 1-888-874-7793).
Be prepared for potentially long wait times, especially during peak travel seasons. Have all your personal information ready before you call to expedite the process. The customer service representatives can provide the same status information as the online portal and may be able to offer additional help for special circumstances.
Understanding Passport Processing Times
The most common question applicants have is, ‘How long will it take?’ The Department of State provides estimates for different service levels. It is crucial to check their official website for the most current processing times, as they can change based on demand.
- Routine Processing: This is the standard option. It can take several weeks from the time your application is received.
- Expedited Processing: For an additional fee, you can shorten the processing time significantly. This is a popular option for those with travel plans in the near future.
- Urgent Travel: If you have international travel booked within 14 calendar days, you may be eligible to make an appointment at a passport agency or center. This requires proof of immediate travel.
Remember, the processing time clock starts the day your application is received at the processing facility, not the day you mail it.
What if My Status Hasn’t Changed in Weeks?
It is very common for an application’s status to remain ‘In Process’ for the entire duration of the stated processing window. The lack of change does not necessarily indicate a problem. However, if the published processing time has passed and your status has not changed, it is appropriate to call the National Passport Information Center to inquire about your application.
Tracking the Delivery of Your Passport
Once your status changes to ‘Mailed,’ you can track the physical delivery. Your passport book is sent via USPS Priority Mail with a tracking number. Passport cards are sent via First-Class Mail and do not have tracking. You can find the USPS tracking number in the online portal once it becomes available.
If you paid the extra fee for 1-2 day delivery service, your passport book will be shipped via a trackable overnight service, providing extra security and speed. Your tracking number will also be visible in the online portal.
What About My Supporting Documents?
A common point of concern is the return of original documents, such as birth certificates or naturalization certificates. These documents are mailed back to you separately from your passport book. They are sent via USPS First-Class Mail, which does not include tracking. They may arrive before, on the same day as, or up to two weeks after you receive your new passport. Do not be alarmed if your passport arrives first.
Final Steps: Receiving and Checking Your New Passport
Once your passport arrives, your tracking journey is complete. The first thing you should do is carefully inspect it for any errors. Check that your name, date of birth, and photo are all correct. If you find any printing errors, you must report them immediately by following the instructions on the State Department’s website.
After confirming all the information is correct, sign your passport on the signature line using a pen with black ink. Your passport is not valid until it is signed. With that final step, you are ready for your international adventures!
Conclusion: Patience and Preparation are Key
Tracking your passport application is a straightforward process designed to give you peace of mind while you wait. By using the Online Passport Status System and signing up for email updates, you can stay informed every step of the way. Remember to be patient, as the ‘In Process’ stage can be lengthy but is a normal part of the procedure. By understanding the process and knowing how to find the information you need, you can navigate the waiting period with confidence and look forward to the travels that lie ahead.
