How to Get a Passport Appointment at the Chicago Passport Agency

Where to book your Chicago passport appointment

The Chicago Passport Agency is located at 69 West Washington Street, Suite 1425, Chicago, IL 60602. You cannot walk in without an appointment — the office only sees people by scheduled time slot. To book, you must go to travel.state.gov and use their appointment system. You cannot call the Chicago office directly to reserve a time.

The State Department's online system shows available dates and times. Appointment slots fill weeks or months ahead during peak travel seasons (spring and summer), so the sooner you book, the sooner you can be seen. If no dates appear available, check back daily — cancellations do open up, and the system updates throughout the day.

You will need a valid email address to complete your booking. The confirmation goes to that email, and you should save or print it. Bring the confirmation number with you on your appointment day.

Key Takeaways

• Book your appointment at travel.state.gov, not by phone or in person — the Chicago office does not accept walk-ins.
• Bring your confirmation number, a valid photo ID, and any documents the State Department asked you to bring when you booked.
• Arrive 15 minutes early; arriving more than 15 minutes late may result in your appointment being cancelled.
• Processing times vary by service type: routine passports take longer than expedited ones, and passport cards have different timelines than books.
• If you cannot make your appointment, cancel it online so the slot opens for someone else and you can rebook for a different date.

What documents to bring to your appointment

Bring your confirmation number from your online booking. Bring a valid photo ID — a driver's license, state ID, or military ID all work. If you are renewing a passport, bring the old one. If you are applying for your first passport or replacing a lost one, bring your birth certificate (original or certified copy) plus one additional form of ID.

The State Department's website lists specific documents based on your situation when you book. Read that list carefully and gather everything before you go. Missing a single document can mean your appointment is rescheduled or you have to return another day.

Bring a completed passport application form. For a new passport or replacement, use Form DS-11. For renewal, use Form DS-82 or Form DS-64 if your passport was lost or stolen. You can fill these out online at travel.state.gov and print them, or fill them out by hand before you arrive. Do not sign the form until you are at the appointment — the acceptance agent must witness your signature.

Bring a passport photo if you are applying for a new passport or replacing a lost one. The photo must meet State Department standards: 2x2 inches, color, taken within the last six months, with a plain white or off-white background. Many drugstores and photo shops in Chicago can take passport photos on the spot if you need one.

Processing times and when you will get your passport

The Chicago Passport Agency handles expedited service only — not routine processing. Expedited service means your passport is processed faster than the standard timeline, but it still takes time. Current processing times vary, and the State Department updates them regularly on travel.state.gov.

Expedited passports typically take one to two weeks from the day the agency receives your application, though this varies. If you need your passport even faster, you can request expedited service with a one-business-day turnaround at some passport agencies, including Chicago, but this costs extra and requires proof of imminent travel (a plane ticket or cruise confirmation dated within two weeks).

You can track your passport's status online using your confirmation number and date of birth. The State Department's website has a tracking tool that shows whether your application is being processed, approved, or ready for pickup.

Fees and payment methods

Passport fees depend on the type of document and whether you are applying for the first time or renewing. A passport book costs more than a passport card. Expedited processing adds a fee on top of the base fee. The State Department's website lists current fees — they change periodically, so check travel.state.gov before your appointment.

The Chicago Passport Agency accepts cash, check, and credit or debit card. If you pay by check, make it out to the U.S. Department of State. Bring the exact amount or be prepared for change. Ask the acceptance agent which payment method is fastest if you are unsure.

What to expect during your appointment

Arrive 15 minutes early. The office is in a federal building, so you will go through security screening at the entrance. Allow extra time for this, especially if you are unfamiliar with the building. Arriving more than 15 minutes late may result in your appointment being cancelled.

An acceptance agent will review your documents, ask you questions about your application, and take your photo if you are applying for a new passport. They will verify that your form is complete and signed correctly. If anything is missing or incorrect, they will tell you what needs to be fixed before they can accept your application.

Once your application is accepted, you will pay the fee. The agent will give you a receipt and tell you how to track your passport and when to expect it. Some people pick up their passport in person; others have it mailed. Ask the agent which option applies to you.

If you need to cancel or reschedule

Cancel or reschedule your appointment online at travel.state.gov using your confirmation number. Do this as soon as you know you cannot make it. Cancelling opens the slot for someone else and lets you book a different time without losing your place in the system.

If you miss your appointment without cancelling, you may have to wait longer to book a new one. The system may flag your account, and you might not be able to book another Chicago appointment for several weeks. Always cancel if your plans change.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a same-day passport at the Chicago office?

The Chicago Passport Agency offers expedited service with a one-business-day turnaround, but only if you have proof of imminent travel within two weeks. You must book this service in advance through travel.state.gov and pay an additional fee. Same-day service is not available for routine or standard expedited passports.

What if I do not have my birth certificate?

You will need an original or certified copy of your birth certificate to apply for a new passport. If you do not have one, contact the vital records office in the state or country where you were born. They can issue a certified copy, though this takes time. Plan ahead — do not wait until your appointment to get this document.

Can someone else go to my appointment for me?

No. You must appear in person at your appointment. The acceptance agent needs to verify your identity, witness your signature, and take your photo. A family member or friend cannot do this on your behalf.

How do I track my passport after my appointment?

Use the tracking tool at travel.state.gov. Enter your confirmation number and date of birth. The system shows your application status and estimated completion date. You can also call the National Passport Information Center, though wait times are often long.

What if I booked the wrong appointment type?

Cancel your current appointment online and book a new one with the correct service type. Do this as soon as you realize the mistake. If you are unsure which type you need, read the descriptions on travel.state.gov or call the National Passport Information Center before rebooking.