I just looked into this recently. Processing times are crazy long right now because of the new law that requires passports for travel to Canada and Mexico (which comes into effect in June, I believe?). Everyone who travels regularly to those places is scrambling to get passports right now, in addition the the regular summer scramble. http://travel.state.gov/passport/passport_1738.html There are some passport agencies that can expedite the process. The Boston agency in the Tip O'Neill building is probably his best bet: http://travel.state.gov/passport/about/agencies/agencies_913.html There are also places online that promise same-day service (e.g. www.americanpassport.com - do a google search for "passports") - not sure how legitimate they are. Bronwen www.cdeVision.com -----Original Message----- From: hidden-discuss-bounces at lists.hidden-tech.net [mailto:hidden-discuss-bounces at lists.hidden-tech.net] On Behalf Of Deborah Chandler Sent: Thursday, May 17, 2007 10:43 PM To: Hidden-discuss at lists.hidden-tech.net Subject: [Hidden-tech] Getting a last-minute passport Hi all, A friend of mine plans to leave on May 28th for Germany, but has misplaced his passport. He had one back in 2003, but just can't find it anywhere. He was told by one of the passport offices that he can schedule an appointment with them within two weeks of his trip, to get an expedited passport, but it has to be AFTER he has purchased his plane ticket. So, he's bought the ticket already, a $1000 plane ticket. He has called and made an appointment to get an expedited passport on May 29th, the day after he is scheduled to leave. Ugghh.... Does anyone have any experience with this kind of situation and have any advice to share? He is aware that there are places that will charge good money to help expedite a passport, but it is extra $$ that he does not want to spend unless it is unavoidable. His next step so far is to drive to Boston and wait in person for an appointment at the passport office at the Tip O'Neil Federal Building on Causeway Street. Thanks in advance for any helpful info, Deb