Regional passport agency · urgent travel service
Houston Passport Agency
One of 27 State Department locations nationwide that can issue passports for urgent travel — by appointment only, for travelers leaving within 14 days.
Source: travel.state.gov — Houston Passport Agency official page. Policies and hours can change; the appointment line confirms current rules.
How agency service actually works
- Call first. No appointment, no entry — this is the rule at every agency, with no exceptions for lines or urgency.
- Prove the deadline. Itinerary, ticket or reservation showing travel within 14 days.
- Come complete. Application filled (unsigned if DS-11), evidence, ID, photo and payment including the $60 expedite fee.
- Same-visit pickup is common for straightforward cases — many travelers leave with the passport the same day or next business day.
Frequently asked questions
How do I get an appointment at the Houston Passport Agency?
Appointments cannot be booked at the door or online for most cases — call the National Passport Information Center at 1-877-487-2778 (TDD 1-888-874-7793). You generally must have international travel within 14 days (or need a foreign visa within 28 days) and proof of travel.
Can I just walk in?
No. Passport agencies see customers by appointment only. If you arrive without one, you will be turned away — even with urgent travel. The appointment line is the only official route, and appointments are free.
What counts as a life-or-death emergency?
Travel within 72 hours because an immediate family member abroad is seriously ill, injured or has died. You'll need documentation (medical statement or death certificate) plus proof of travel. Call the same number and follow the emergency prompts.
What do I bring to my appointment?
Proof of imminent travel, your completed application (DS-11 unsigned, or DS-82 for renewals), citizenship evidence, photo ID, one 2x2 photo, and payment including the $60 expedite fee. Arrive early — federal building security takes time.
Other regional agencies
Arkansas Passport Center
Hot Springs, AR
Atlanta Passport Agency
Atlanta, GA
Buffalo Passport Agency
Buffalo, NY
Boston Passport Agency
Boston, MA
Charleston Passport Center
Charleston, SC
Chicago Passport Agency
Chicago, IL