Sometimes, the time approaches for an international vacation and travelers find themselves without a passport. Their document may be lost or stolen or it may have expired before the traveler realizes what has occurred. In these cases, however, travelers still have hope to obtain an expedited passport card application. In fact, by following the correct procedure, travelers may obtain cards within two weeks.

Certain applicants for cards after an expedited lost US passport must always apply in person. Applicants who are applying for their first passport, who are under the age of sixteen or who were under the age of sixteen when they obtained their first card must apply in person at a local agency. Also, if a previous document is more than fifteen years old or if the applicant has a name change, which cannot be legally documented, an in-person application is required. In addition, any person, whose passport was previously lost or stolen must apply in person at a local agency.

The State Department has a specific application procedure. Applicants must fill out the DS-11 form but should not sign it until instructed by the Acceptance Agent. At the agency, applicants should submit their DS-11, evidence of US citizenship and a form of identification. Also, applicants should photocopy their identification documents, pay the fee including the added rush charge and provide an appropriate photo for their card.

Applicants should schedule an appointment by calling a local agency. Applicants will have to follow an automated appointment-setting process over the telephone. By the time the call is concluded, applicants will have the address of the office, a confirmation number and an appointment time.

Expedited applications require added documentation. In addition to the application, identification, photo, and fee, expedited applicants must bring evidence of the date they plan to leave the country. Usually, a travel agency itinerary or an airline e-ticket is accepted as evidence by the agency.

Renewal applicants with more time may send their application by mail. In a manila, letter-sized envelope, applicants should enclose their DS-11 and their check for the application fee, including charges for expediting. Then, the envelope should be addressed to the appropriate agency and the word "expedited" should be written on the face of the envelope before mailing.

Applicants may use a private expediter, as long as they take certain precautions. Applicants will find out more information about the company if they do online research to see if other customers have left comments about the company. Also, customers should verify the telephone number on the company web page by calling it to verify the authenticity of the company.

While it may take some time for them to appear online, applications may be tracked through a website set up by the State Department. If travelers follow procedure accurately, they will be secure in the knowledge that their expedited U S passport card or expedited lost USA passport will arrive in time for travel. Cards may be obtained from local agencies, provided that the applicant appears in-person with completed documentation and pays the extra charge for expediting.