Definitely schedule an in person visit with the Passport Office, just in case

15 years ago, it was pretty bad.. file 2 first time US Passports for wife and son on Feb 8 2007. ff to April 17 - zip, nada.. call, e mail etc.. nada.. a week later they tell me the passports are in the mail (fed ex or ups, not usps) and 3 days later, still nothing.. call and e mail again, just somewhat incoherent responses.. I schedule an appointment for April 30 (We had international flight reservations for May 2 for family and dog). Visit was successful, as we showed them everything, including our flight reservations and they promised they would be ready for pick up the next morning, May 1 (the day before we travel!). We go back the next day for pick up and nothing! nothing was ready.. my wife (with her South American Latin temper) just gave them a piece of her mind.. The Security (Feds) people came and wanted to take her out, but she refused.. I managed to speak with their people and we got another, more absolute promise they would be ready that afternoon. At that point, we had less than 24 hours before wheels up.. I went back again (3rd time in 2 days I made that 30 mile drive into Boston) found an open free parking there by Boston Garden, walked across Causeway Street, went inside the Tip and finally.. 2 new passports.. That was cutting it close..

We had no such problems getting their Brasilian passports, which was same day service!! My visa was still valid..