If you’re flying abroad for the holidays, you need your travel documents in order now, most importantly your passport. If you need to get a new passport, here’s why you shouldn’t waste your money on a courier service.


A courier service might seem like it takes the hassle out of having to actually deliver or mail the forms yourself, but the State Department warns that if you’re using form DS-11 (first-time applicant and all minors) you’ll have to appear in-person anyways, and the other services they offer usually aren’t worth the money either, from special photo services (which you can get at a local post office) to “rush” services that don’t save time and just amount to extra fees.

Since courier services have no affiliation with the government, they have no power to influence how quickly you get your passport. If you need a passport in a hurry (like you’re traveling in a few weeks), the State Department has a few options for expediting your passport application or renewal. For most of them, you’ll need to apply in-person with the usual paperwork and need an appointment.


Passport Expeditors and Couriers | State Department