Passport status lookup and missing application updates
Check a submitted U.S. passport application at passportstatus.state.gov. Have the applicant's last name, date of birth, and last four Social Security number digits ready. The U.S. Department of State also sends updates to the email address included with the application.
How do I check my passport application status?
Enter the applicant's details in the status system, including any last-name suffix. Use the same name as the application. For a hyphenated name or an apostrophe, try the punctuation variations suggested on the State Department status page if the first attempt finds no record.
This lookup follows an application already submitted. It does not order a passport or complete a renewal. Save any application locator number and delivery tracking number that appear.
Why is my passport status not available?
The first processing update can take up to two weeks after you apply. A delivery carrier marking an envelope delivered may refer to a mail-sorting facility, before the application reaches passport intake and review.
After that period, the next contact depends on what happened. If payment has not been processed, contact the carrier or acceptance facility to trace the application. If payment was processed but no record appears, call the National Passport Information Center. For a brief website failure, try again later or use another browser or device.
What do In Process and Approved mean?
| Message | Meaning |
|---|---|
| In Process | An agency or center is reviewing the application. |
| Approved | Review is complete and printing is being prepared. |
| Passport Mailed | The new passport has been sent. |
| Additional Information Needed | The agency has requested information and the application is on hold. |
Approved can change back to In Process if a problem is found during final review. Read an information request separately from a normal processing update and follow its instructions. A missing document or photo request requires a response; refreshing the status page will not resolve it.
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QR Code GeneratorWhere is the passport delivery tracking number?
The Passport Mailed update includes tracking for a passport book. Passport cards are sent by First Class Mail. If a tracking number appears, save it and check the carrier's delivery record. A processing message and a delivery scan answer different questions.
If the new passport itself has not arrived more than two weeks after mailing, call the National Passport Information Center. A passport never received in the mail has a non-receipt process; do not assume it follows the same steps as losing a passport after receiving it.
Why have my supporting documents not been returned?
Your previous passport and citizenship documents are returned separately from the new document. Allow up to four weeks after receiving the new passport book or card for supporting documents. Contact the National Passport Information Center if that period has passed.
Who do I call if my trip is approaching?
If you already applied and international travel is within 14 days, call 877-487-2778. An agency visit requires an appointment. Keep your travel details and application information available when calling.
For travel farther away, the contact page identifies reasons to call, including changing the mailing address or requesting faster service. Do not submit another passport application just because the current status has not changed.
FAQ
Does delivered mean my application is In Process?
No. Carrier delivery can happen before passport intake and review.
Can I look up status without my full Social Security number?
The status system asks for the last four digits, along with the applicant's name and birth date.
Will the passport and old documents arrive together?
Supporting documents are returned separately. The status page says they can arrive up to four weeks after the new passport.