When it comes to applying for a US passport, the big question many people ask is: Should I pay extra for expedited processing? At passportwaitingtime.com, we track real user-submitted data to provide accurate, crowd-sourced averages — and our latest numbers give a clear picture of whether that extra fee is really worth it.
| Application Type | Standard Processing | Expedited Processing |
|---|---|---|
| First-Time Adult Passport | 30 days | 17 days |
| Adult Passport Renewal | 22 days | 17 days |
*Times displayed in table are calculated using crowd sourced data from recent passport application and is not government figures.
When Expedited Processing Might Be Worth It
Expedited service through the US Department of State currently costs an additional $60 on top of the standard application fees. You’ll also want to factor in faster shipping costs if you’re mailing your application.
Paying for expedited service can be worth it in the following situations:
- You have travel booked within the next month and need your passport in hand.
- You’re renewing but can’t risk delays, for example, if you need to apply for a visa or show ID for a job or licensing process.
- Peace of mind is worth the extra fee — especially if you’ve had delays or issues in the past.
A reduction of 13 days for a first-time passport and 5 days for a renewal may not seem dramatic, but when you’re on a tight schedule, those days count.
When You Might Not Need to Pay Extra
If your travel is more than a month away, standard processing may be perfectly fine. Especially in the case of adult renewals — where the average is just 22 days — the 5-day difference might not justify the extra $60 fee.
Also, keep in mind:
- Processing times can fluctuate, but current turnaround is relatively fast.
- The savings could be better spent on expedited shipping if you want to play it safe without paying the full expedited processing fee.
The Bottom Line
At the moment, standard passport processing times in the US are quicker than usual. For most travellers, particularly those renewing their passport, waiting a few extra days could save you $60 — without the stress.
But if time is tight, or you simply want the extra security, expedited service still offers a meaningful time advantage, especially for first-time applicants.
Before applying, check back with us at passportwaitingtime.com — our community-driven data helps you make informed decisions and avoid unnecessary stress.
Disclaimer: All passport wait times shown are estimates based on data submitted by recent applicants to passportwaitingtime.com. These are not official government figures and cannot be guaranteed. Your actual processing time may differ depending on your location, application method, document accuracy, and other factors.