Courier and Expeditor Companies

Courier companies, also known as “passport expeditors,” are private companies, some of which are allowed to submit passport applications on behalf of customers.

Thinking of using a courier company? Here are a few things you should know:

  • These companies do not operate as a part of the U.S. Department of State. 
  • You will not receive your passport any faster than you would if you applied in person at a passport agency or center
  • Courier companies charge additional fees for their services.
  • If you are using a courier company and applying on Form DS-11, you still must appear in person at an acceptance facility such as a post office, library, or local government office. You will also need to provide additional information, such as proof of urgent international travel in 14 days, or 28 days if you need a foreign visa. 
  • You cannot submit an application online through a courier company.

Disclaimers

  • The U.S. Department of State is not responsible for any issues arising from, caused by or otherwise attributed to a courier company, including but not limited to courier company negligence, failure to maintain passport documents' physical condition, or loss of documents in their possession.
  • The U.S. Department of State does not intervene or resolve applicant disputes with courier companies. If you believe you are the victim of a crime or there has been criminal activity by the courier company, please contact your local law enforcement office.
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Frequently Asked Questions

The company I looked up has a government seal on their website. Doesn't that mean it's an official government service?

No. Some companies may appear to be part of the U.S. government because they use logos that look like official government seals. These companies are not part of the U.S government or government contractors and do not operate as a part of the U.S. Department of State.

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The company I'm using said I could renew my passport online through their website. Is that true?

No. You can only renew your passport online through the U.S. Department of State. All passport applications submitted by a courier company must be printed out and signed in ink. You must also provide original, physical documents when submitting your application through a courier company. 

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Is there a fee to fill out a passport application or make an appointment?

No. Passport applications are available free-of-charge on the Passport Forms page. There is also no fee for making an appointment at a passport acceptance facility or one of our passport agencies or centers.

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Should I be worried about handing over my personal information?

Not necessarily. However, we do advise that you practice due diligence by researching courier companies you plan to use since you will be sharing with them your most sensitive identification information and documents. In addition to standard consumer research, the Better Business Bureau and Chamber of Commerce may be helpful resources.

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Anything else I should know about couriers?

Be sure to read the "fine print" when visiting these companies' websites.

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Never mind, I don't want to use a courier service. What can I do?

You can expedite your application directly with Passport Services. For details, please see Get A Passport Fast

Last Updated: September 26, 2022