Anyone that has even had to get a passport knows that it can be a bit trying even under the best of circumstances. When trying to a get a 24 hour passport, the difficulty meter goes up significantly. However, under the right circumstances, this difficult task can be accomplished, for a fee of course.
Most people will not ever need to get a 24 hour passport, but unexpected situations may arise that cause for rush processing. If an emergency situation happens for someone that has never had a passport, they better get ready to do some running. It is best to have everything together that is needed the moment that they walk into the passport office.
The U.S. Department of State specifies that a 24 hour passport should only be given to someone who has suffered a death, serious injury, or serious illness overseas to someone in their immediate family. In the case of injury or illness, the family member must be hospitalized. In the event of such an emergency, applicants are encouraged to call the State Department Passport hotline.
Many external agencies promise to help customers obtain passports as quickly as possible. While these agencies are often very helpful, it is quite difficult to make any promises regarding passports. Getting a passport in one day is difficult for a variety of reasons.
Someone that is only getting a passport renewal will probably have a much easier time with this process. Since everything is already in place, they may actually be able to do their application right over the Internet or online. However, if they are in need of the 24 hour service, it is likely that they will still need to go to either the local passport office or a private agency.
New passport applicants face a much more challenging road than passport renewal applicants. Because everything has to be done in person, it can make the while process a bit more difficult. For those that live in small towns, they may have to travel hundreds of miles to a passport office that can provide the services that they need.
Something else to consider is that it is always best to make sure that an appointment has been made or that the applicant is the first person in line when the office opens. If they allow appointments, get one because it will guarantee the place in line. It is never good to just hope to show up and get right in. We all know how government waiting rooms can be.
It is very difficult to get a passport in 24 hours, but not impossible. Often times, success comes down to luck and circumstance. Hopefully you will never be in a situation that would warrant a 24 hour United States passport, but if the unthinkable happens, the above advice should be able to point you in the right direction to get a U S passport.