Passport application delays reach unprecedented levels in the US.
The demand for passports has surged, with the State Department receiving 500,000 applications a week, causing wait times of 10 to 13 weeks for regular processing and 7 to 9 weeks for expedited processing. Staffing shortages are being blamed for some of the delays. The surge in demand is unusual, with the U.S. Travel Association reporting that 52% of Americans plan to travel in the next six months. If you need to renew your passport, you can mail your passport with a DS 82 form and a photo. Passport services are offered at some post offices, libraries, and government buildings.