Do I have to make an appointment to apply at your acceptance facility?

The Plainsboro Library Passport Acceptance Facility does take walk-ins based upon agent availability, however if you want a guaranteed time slot, we recommend that you schedule an appointment on our website at an earlier time. Please call us ahead of time to verify our hours, acceptable forms of payment, and appointment requirements.

Can I mail in my application or apply online?

When applying using Form DS-11, you are not eligible to mail in your application or apply online. You must apply in person.

Do you process renewals?

Many adult passports can be renewed by mail. If you need to renew an adult passport, please check the requirements for the DS82 form to see if you qualify. The renewal application can be filled out and mailed by the applicant. You may renew by mail if you currently hold a 10-year passport that is less than 5-years expired. Detailed instructions are included in the application. The Plainsboro Library does provide photo services for those renewing their passport for a fee of $15, but we do not process these applications at our facility.

How long does the passport application process take?

The passport application process will take from 20-100 minutes per appointment. Passport appointments for 1 person will last approximately 30 minutes. Passport appointments for 2 people will last approximately 40 minutes. Passport appointments for 3 people are allotted 60 minutes, appointments for 4 last 80 minutes, and appointments for 5 people are 100 minutes. More time may be needed for complex cases involving citizenship, parental guardianship, or last-minute travel.

I’m running late, will I still be able to have my appointment?

We have a 10-minute grace period for appointments. If you are running more than 10 minutes late, please call to reschedule your appointment. We cannot guarantee to take your appointment if you arrive more than 10 minutes late.

Should my application be filled out prior to my appointment?

Yes, the DS11 application must be filled out in black ink only prior to the beginning of your appointment. If this form is not filled out at the time of your appointment, you will be asked to reschedule. If any part of your application is incomplete, including supporting documents, you may need to reschedule your appointment.

How long will it take to get my passport?

For up-to-date information on when you will get your passport, please see Processing Times. If you need your passport quickly, please see Get My Passport Fast.

How do I track the status of my passport application?

To track the status of your passport application, visit the website passportstatus.state.gov or call the National Passport Information Center (NPIC) at 1(877)-487-2778. To receive email notifications about the status of your passport application, you can sign up here.

How can I get my passport fast in case of an emergency?

Urgent Travel Service: Call 1-877-487-2778 from 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. ET, Mondays through Fridays (closed on federal holidays) to schedule an appointment if you are traveling internationally within 14 calendar days or need a foreign visa within 28 calendar days.

Find more information here.

Can I pay for faster delivery and return shipping?

  • You may choose one or both of the following shipment options:
    • Delivery to the the Department of State: Purchase Priority Mail Express from the United States Postal Service for faster shipping of your application to the Department of State. The price for this service varies depending on the area of the country.
    • Return to you: Pay $21.36 for 1–2-day delivery. This means you will receive your passport 1-2 days after the Department of State sends it. Include the $21.36 fee with your passport fee in your check or money order payable to the U.S. Department of State for fastest return shipping. Do not submit a return envelope to the Department of State with $21.36 of postage prepaid.
  • You may receive your passport and the supporting documents submitted with your application in separate mailings.

Can I pay using a starter check?

We do not accept starter checks for payment during a passport appointment. If you would like to pay using a check, please use a personal check, cashier’s check, or business check. If you do not have checks, you can also use a money order instead for payment.

When should I renew my passport?

You can renew your passport at any time during its validity and up to 5 years after its expiration. Some countries require that your passport be valid for at least six months beyond your travel date. Some airlines will not allow you to board if this requirement is not met.