Losing or having your passport stolen is stressful, but replacing it doesn't have to be a nightmare. The key is knowing where to go and what to expect from a qualified passport acceptance facility. This guide walks you through the actual process, costs, and how to find a reliable service near you.
What Passport Acceptance Facilities Actually Do
Passport acceptance facilities are authorized locations—typically post offices, libraries, county clerk offices, or dedicated passport agencies—that verify your documents and submit your replacement application to the State Department. They don't issue passports, but they're the critical first step. These facilities check that your application is complete, witness your signature, and certify that your photos meet federal standards before forwarding everything to the processing center.
Not all government offices accept passport applications. A real facility is listed on the State Department's official acceptance agent locator tool and staffed with trained personnel who know passport rules inside and out.
Finding a Passport Acceptance Facility Near You
Start by visiting the State Department's acceptance agent search at travel.state.gov or calling 1-877-487-2778. Search by ZIP code or city to see which locations near you are authorized. Most Americans have multiple options—post offices (especially larger branches) and public libraries are commonly convenient.
When you call ahead, ask:
- Are they accepting new applications right now (some reduce hours seasonally)?
- Do they require an appointment or accept walk-ins?
- What's their typical wait time?
- Do they accept credit cards or cash only?
Mercoly helps you compare and find trusted passport acceptance facilities in your area, so you can see reviews, hours, and services all in one place rather than hunting multiple websites.
Documents You'll Need to Bring
Bring these items to avoid a rejected application:
- Your old passport (or police report if it was stolen)
- Completed Form DS-11 or DS-82 (depending on whether you're renewing or replacing)
- A government-issued photo ID (driver's license, state ID)
- Two 2×2-inch color photos with a plain white or off-white background
- Proof of citizenship (birth certificate, naturalization certificate)
- Proof of citizenship and identity (your old passport or combination of documents)
- Payment (see costs below)
If your passport was stolen, bring a copy of the police report. The facility may require it to process your replacement claim.
Timeline and Cost Expectations
Processing times vary significantly based on demand and whether you pay for expedited service:
- Routine processing: 6–8 weeks, $130 (passport book) or $35 (card)
- Expedited processing: 2–3 weeks, add $60 to book fee
- Execution fee: $35 (charged at the acceptance facility, non-refundable)
Total cost for a replacement passport book with routine processing is typically $165. Expedited bumps it to $225. Some acceptance facilities charge a small additional fee (usually $5–15) for their services on top of the State Department fees.
If you need a passport in under 2 weeks for international travel, some facilities offer same-day or next-day photo services, but you'll still wait for the State Department's processing. No legitimate facility can bypass federal timelines.
What to Expect During Your Visit
Arrive with all documents organized and ready. The acceptance agent will review your application, verify your identity, witness your signature, and inspect your photos. The visit typically takes 15–30 minutes at a busy facility.
The agent will collect your old passport (or note the theft in the system if it was stolen) and submit everything electronically or by secure mail. You'll receive a receipt showing your application number—keep it for tracking purposes.
Don't expect to leave with a new passport that day. All passports go through federal processing, no matter where you apply.
Red Flags to Avoid
Steer clear of any service claiming they can expedite beyond what the State Department offers, or charge unusually high fees. Passport acceptance facilities are government-authorized; they shouldn't charge more than the official fees plus a small execution fee.
Also avoid applying through non-official channels online. Scammers target people in a rush by promising faster processing—they don't deliver.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I replace my passport at any post office? Not all post offices accept passports—only those designated as acceptance agents. Use the State Department locator to confirm.
Q: If my passport was stolen, does that affect the replacement timeline? No, the timeline is the same whether it was lost or stolen. Just bring a police report as proof.
Q: Can I expedite my replacement if I lost my passport abroad? You'll need to contact the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate first. Domestic expediting doesn't apply to international situations.
Start your search for a nearby facility today—the sooner you submit your application, the sooner you'll travel again.