Dear Passport Processing Center,
I’d like to commend you on a recent job well done. What I’m speaking of is my unnecessarily complicated and frustrating experience in obtaining my U.S. passport book.
Back in late February, I applied for my first U.S. passport. At that point, the wait time on your Website for processing applications was three weeks. At the two-week point, I decided to try to track the status of my passport application online using your handy online tracking system. I was repeatedly told that my passport application was not found. Note: If this function ceases working, shut it down so as not to freak people out.
After waiting four weeks and no passport, I decided to call the National Passport Information Center. Twenty-five minutes later, I got to speak to a real person. I was informed that my application was, in fact, received and there was a backlog of applications so the processing time was taking longer than expected. I was told that if I didn’t receive my passport within two weeks, I should call back.
Two weeks later: no passport. I call again. I was informed that my passport was mailed the day before and I should receive it shortly. Lo and behold, and against all odds, I actually received my passport in the mail—a mere six ½ weeks after I applied.
A week after finally getting my passport, I received an enveloped marked “Official Government Business.” What the hell?! I opened it to find a note from you, informing me that my passport application was received and that I should expect my passport shortly. Way to go, people.
In summation, thank you for the extended wait and unnecessary stress. Your kindness and efficiency will not soon be forgotten.
Regards,
Lady Bird Johnson
