Passport may not arrive time - should I change my surgery date?

[TNRose 1]

My surgery date is January 20th in Tijuana. I've got my airline tickets, time off from work, but just today got to apply for my passport, and my husbands.

I expedited our passport request, but I'd have to receive our passports by Friday, January 12th for our trip. Am I cutting it too close? Should I reschedule? Gosh, I hate to because it means I'll have to wait a few more months (blackout period at work) but I really hate to cancel at the last minute.

Any suggestions? I didn't make copies of our birth certificates...I didn't realize if I had copies we could cross the border with that, our drivers license, and a receipt from the passport request.

[sashamp 6]

You should be able to get another copy of your birth certificate from your local health department.

[laurenella82 625]

Where are you located? I applied for an expedited passport in April for a cruise and I got it in about 6 business days but it can take up to 2 weeks. Just to cover yourself I would suggest getting another birth certifications but I think you'll be ok.

[TNRose 1]

Thanks for the responses! It's a great point about the local health department, but I live in TN, and was born in WV. My husband's would be possible, but not mine. They say it can take up to 3 weeks; I applied with 2 weeks and 2 days to spare. That's super close!

[built2livenotexist 119]

I had a mishap with my app due to keeping my ex husbands last name but being remarried after the fact and never changing my name legally. I didn't find out that the app was on hold until 2 weeks before I was to fly out. I got the needed documents, and expedite fee and overnighted it. Got my passport 4 days later. Good luck.

[JordanB 9]

My passport was expedited and it took about 10 days. It really was quick! Is there some way for you to check with USPS to track it? I've heard they are absolutely strict about the passport. I don't know if you'll be able to get through without the passport card or the actual passport. ... Have faith... If you're flying out on the 20th you will be fine.

Edited January 1, 2015 by brknbrr

[BLERDgirl 6,417]

I would try for the birth certificate and wait until the last possible second to cancel.