Wait-out time on new passport?

NakedDex

While I was about to book flights to Philly the other day, I realised my passport was missing. Four days of panicked searching, turning the place upside down in the process, has turned up nothing so I can only conclude it is lost. I last saw it back in October when it was last used.
This means I have to apply for a new one, section six etc, all of which paperwork is filled in and beside me. However, I was told today by the passport office that there is a three month period where I cannot fly to the US on a newly issued passport, whereas on their website I see no mention of it and on the US Embassy website it mentions a six month wait period, but that Ireland is exempt from it.
I've checked the dates and, assuming I get this all sent away by Passport Express for the "(minimum) ten day service", the earliest I can expect it back in my hand would be four days later than I need it to if this three month/ninety day rule is actually in effect.

Can anyone clarify if it is, or if the Embassy website is correct in saying Ireland is exempt from it?
I haven't yet booked the flights but the date I need to be flying out in is fairly set in stone at this stage. Is there anything I can do beyond crossing a fistful of fingers that it processes faster than expected?

robinph

I'd be more inclined to belive the US Embassy web sites opinion on the matter than someone in the Irish passport office.

NakedDex

As would I. The only mention of a 90-day style rule is that you stay less than 90 days for the visa waiver qualification.
I'm going to call the passport office to confirm this tomorrow, but they were considerably less than helpful each time I called today regarding this and the lost passport.

Bogger77

I traveled this time last year, with a 2 day old passport. I did have my old one with me, just in case, but I had no issues at Immigration in SFO. Even with that, I got pictures taken on Thursday, got passport on Friday, haircut on Saturday from shaggy to crewcut, Flew on Sunday, and didnt even raise an eyebrow!!

NakedDex

That's somewhat relieving. Especially considering the other two tabs opened in this browser are the flights and hotel waiting to be booked since last Saturday.

Bogger77

I'd call the US embassy, or even check out official US dept of State websites, I'd not bother with the guys in the Irish passport office. They don't know, dont have to know, and it's not their colleagues who you'll be dealing with in Shannon/Dublin or the US border entry point.

NakedDex

I was going to call the Embassy today until I realised it's €2.40 a minute to call them (an Embassy with a premium rate number, welcome to the USA...). I may have to bite the bullet tomorrow to confirm.