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U.S. passports

Find out how to apply for or renew a passport and what to do if your passport is lost or stolen.

Apply for a new adult passport

You need a passport to travel to most countries outside the U.S. Learn how to apply in person.

Renew an adult passport

Find out if you can renew your passport or have to get a new one. Learn how to renew your passport by mail or in person in an emergency.

Get a passport for a minor under 18

Find out how to get a child's passport, depending on their age.

Lost or stolen passports

If your passport is lost or stolen you must report it to the State Department right away. How you replace it depends on if you are inside or outside the U.S.

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First-Time Passports

First-time applicants and people who aren’t allowed to get a new passport by mail.

Apply at a Post Office

Expedited Delivery

Renewing Passports

Most people renewing a passport should mail their application directly to the State Department.

Renew by Mail

Passports for Minors

Passports for children under 16 have special requirements. Make sure you are prepared.

Apply for a First-Time Passport

If you've never had a U.S. passport, are 16 or under, or aren't allowed to renew an existing passport by mail, you need to apply for a new passport in person at the Post Office.

Step 1: Gather Documents Early

Generally, you should apply for your new passport as soon as you know you’ll be traveling internationally—at least several months in advance. Passport processing times may vary, so be sure to check the latest State Department service estimates . First-time applicants, minors, and applicants who need a new passport but may not renew by mail may submit their passport application at the Post Office. The U.S. State Department website explains what you'll need to bring with you.

Application forms (unsigned)
Proof of identity document and a photocopy of the front and back
Proof of U.S. Citizenship document and a photocopy of the front and back
Passport fees

Apply for a Passport in Person

Step 2: Prepare Your Application Package

Visit the U.S. Department of State website to learn how to apply for a passport and what documents you need.

Complete your Form DS-11 Application for U.S. Passport on the State Department website.
Print your completed application. DO NOT SIGN YOUR APPLICATION. A Postal employee must witness your signature.
Have a passport photo taken.
Photocopy your proof of identity and U.S. Citizenship documents.
Post Offices accept credit cards, checks, and money orders for Post Office acceptance fees.
State Department fees are mailed with your application. You can pay with a personal, certified, cashier's, traveler's check, or money order, payable to "U.S. Department of State."

Get Started on Your Application

Step 3: Schedule an Appointment

Post Offices that offer passport services have set hours, and you'll need to schedule an appointment using the online Retail Customer Appointment Scheduler or a Post Office lobby self-service kiosk.

Scheduling Online

Go to Schedule an Appointment .
Choose the passport service you need, along with the number of adults and minors who need appointments.
You can search for appointment by location or date first. If you search by location first, you'll then be asked to choose a date and time; if you search by date first, you'll then need to choose a location and time.
After you choose your appointment location and time, provide your contact information, and agree to the Terms and Conditions.
Click Review Appointment , then confirm your appointment.

If you need to modify or cancel your appointment, click the Manage Appointments tab and enter your confirmation number and email address or phone number.

Using a Self-Service Kiosk

Go to a Post Office location with lobby self-service kiosks. Find USPS Locations
At the self-service kiosk, touch the screen to begin, then select "Other Services," then "Passport Scheduler."
Choose the passport service you need, then enter the number of adults and minors who need appointments.
Search for Post Office locations by ZIP Code™ or City/State and choose a location.
Select an available appointment date and time, then agree to the Terms and Conditions.
Enter your contact information and decide if you'd like to receive SMS text notifications.
Review and confirm your information, then select “Schedule Appointment” to finalize.
Take your printed receipt listing your confirmation number and appointment details.

Step 4: Pay Passport Acceptance & Processing Fees

First-time passport applications have two types of basic fees, the application acceptance fee and the application processing fee. Passport photos and fees for faster processing are extra. Learn how to calculate fees and what you can use to pay for them.

Application Acceptance Fees – Postal Service

Pay acceptance fees in person at the Post Office. You may pay by check or money order, payable to "Postmaster," debit card, or credit card.

$35.00 - Post Office acceptance fee
$15.00 - Post Office photo fee (if needed)

Application Processing Fees – Department of State

State Department payment is sent with your application package. State Department fees are paid separately from USPS fees.

State Department Fees State Department passport fees vary. Calculate passport fees online .
Personal, certified, cashier's, or traveler's check, payable to "U.S. Department of State."
Money order payable to "U.S. Department of State." You can buy a money order at the Post Office with cash, a debit card, or a traveler's check. You cannot pay with a credit card.

Application Status Updates

Use the Online Passport Status System to check your application status if you applied by mail or in person. You may not be able to get a status update for 2 weeks after you apply or renew. During these weeks, your application and supporting documents are on their way to the Department of State. See more information about current processing times on the Department of State page " U.S. Passports ."

Renew a Passport by Mail

If you are eligible to renew your passport, please complete Passport Renewal Application Form DS-82 (see completion instructions on the form), and mail your completed renewal application directly to the State Department for processing. To verify if your passport is eligible for renewal by mail, please visit State Department Renew By Mail .

Step 1: Check Your Eligibility to Renew by Mail

A minor's passport may not be renewed by mail; to renew a minor's passport, you need to submit a new, first-time passport application in person . An adult passport may be renewed by mail if it meets certain requirements.

You can renew your adult passport by mail if you answer "Yes" to all 5 of the following statements:

Your passport:

Is in your possession to submit with your application.
Is undamaged other than normal "wear and tear."
Was issued when you were age 16 or older.
Was issued within the last 15 years.
Was issued in your current name or you can document your name change. (Name changes are explained on Change a Passport .)

If your passport does not meet all these requirements, do not mail your renewal application. You must prepare the same application package as a first-time passport applicant.

State Department Renew by Mail

Apply early for renewals as many countries require that passports be valid for at least 6 months after you enter their country. Learn how to properly prepare your application package and include all the necessary documents so your passport is processed on time.

Complete your Passport Renewal Application Form DS-82 on the State Department website.
Print and sign your DS-82 form.
Have a passport photo taken. You can schedule a passport photo-only appointment at a Post Office ™ location.
Calculate your passport renewal fees .
Collect your most recent passport, completed and signed application, renewal fees, and name change documents, if needed.
Use an envelope large enough to fit the application without folding it.
TIP : Pay for Priority Mail Express ® or Priority Mail ® service and get free envelopes that are large enough to hold your application. Order easily online: Priority Mail Express Flat Rate Envelope or Priority Mail Flat Rate Envelope .
Address the envelope to the location for your state. See page 2 of your DS-82 form.

How to Renew a Passport - Details

Step 3: Mail Your Renewal Application

Department of State recommends using a USPS delivery tracking service to mail your renewal application.

Choose one of the following services:

USPS Priority Mail ® Service with Delivery Confirmation
USPS Priority Mail ® Service with Signature Confirmation
USPS Priority Mail Express ® Service (for overnight delivery requests)

Compare Delivery Tracking Services

Step 4: Follow Your Application Progress

If you use a USPS delivery tracking service, go to USPS Tracking ® to see when your package is delivered.

With a USPS tracking service, you can see when your application arrived using the tracking number on your receipt.

USPS Tracking Status

U.S. Passport Application Status

Expedited Passport Delivery

Get a new passport faster in emergencies & special cases.

If you need your passport faster for emergency travel or another special case, you can send your passport application via Priority Mail Express ® service and pay the State Department fee for faster delivery.

Life-or-Death Emergency

If you need to travel within 72 hours (3 business days) for an immediate family member who is dead, dying, or has a life-threatening illness or injury:

Visit the Life-or-Death Emergencies page on travel.state.gov to learn if you are eligible.
The State Department processes these requests by appointment only.
Your appointment date must be within 72 hours (3 business days) of travel.

Urgent Travel in Less than 10 Weeks

If you are traveling in less than 10 weeks, you must call the State Department Passport Agency to schedule an appointment:

You can call 1-877-487-2778 (1-888-874-7793 TDD/TTY) to schedule an appointment.
Your appointment date must be within 72 hours (3 business days) of travel, and you must provide proof of travel.

Note : An extremely limited number of appointments are available for customers who are traveling internationally in the next 72 hours (3 business days), and other restrictions apply .

Get My Passport Fast

Renew Your Passport Fast

If you pay an additional $60 for expedited service and mail it with Priority Mail Express , you can get your renewed passport within 10 weeks.

Check your eligibility under Renew Your Passport by Mail, Step 1: Check Your Eligibility to Renew by Mail .
Prepare your application as listed under Renew a Passport by Mail, Step 2: Prepare Your Application Package .
Add these special fees, both payable to the U.S. Department of State, to your regular processing fees.
$60.00—Expedited application processing at the State Department
$18.32—1- to 2-day delivery service for faster return shipping to you from the State Department
Clearly mark "EXPEDITE" on the outside of the envelope.
Ship your application to the State Department by Priority Mail Express. Cost varies by location.
Both parents/guardians must authorize the issuance of a child's passport. The best way to give consent is for both parents/guardians to go with the child when applying.
Children need evidence of citizenship.
Parents/guardians need proof of parental relationship.
NOTE: Children's passports are only valid for 5 years. They are not "renewable": When a child's passport expires, you must apply for a new passport for them. When making a passport appointment for a child, please choose "New Passport Only" or "New Passport with Photo Services."

Apply for a Minor's Passport

Department of State Passport Website English | Español
Ask Questions at the National Passport Information Center
Enroll in Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)
Plan Your Trip with the Traveler's Checklist
Get Help in an Emergency Overseas

Lost or Stolen Passports

If your passport has been lost or stolen, you should report it immediately to the U.S. Department of State.

Report Your Lost/Stolen Passport

Protect Your Trip »

The best way to renew a passport in 2024.

The proposed online passport renewal system is behind schedule.

The Best Way to Renew a Passport

Passport of USA (United States of America) on blue travel wallet, wooden background. Close up.

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Key Takeaways

Online passport renewals remain unavailable.
In the meantime, the easiest way to renew your passport is by mail.
It's best to renew your passport several months before it expires.
Some countries require that your passport is valid at least six months beyond the date of your arrival.

In late 2022, the U.S. Department of State began a pilot program in which volunteers could apply to renew their passport online. More than 500,000 passport holders participated in the trial before it was paused in March 2023. The system, which was expected to roll out nationwide late last year, is still in product testing.

Until the online passport renewal program is reinstated, it's best to renew your passport by mail – though there are some instances where you may have no choice but to renew in person. Read on to learn what you need and what to expect when renewing your passport by mail or in person, along with answers to some of the most common questions around passport renewals.

How to renew your passport by mail

If you have an expired or expiring passport in your possession that was issued when you were at least 16 years old and within the past 15 years, you can renew your passport by mail as long as it's relatively undamaged. You'll need to submit the following documentation:

Form DS-82: Complete the DS-82 renewal application.
Existing passport: You will need to send your current U.S. passport, but if you're someone who likes to look back fondly at all of your passport stamps, don't worry – you should receive the original passport back with your new one.
Passport photo: Include a new photo that meets passport requirements (outlined in more detail in the FAQ section below).
Check or money order: Once you determine the applicable fees for your passport renewal, payment must be made with either a check or money order payable to "U.S. Department of State," on the front of which you'll print the full name and date of birth of the applicant. You cannot pay online or send cash at this time.

You can mail all your materials – including your old passport and any name change documents – in a large envelope through the U.S. Postal Service to one of the National Passport Processing Center's designated P.O. boxes; the address varies depending on what state you live in and whether you choose expedited or routine service. Note that if you use a delivery method other than USPS, your application will be returned to you without being processed.

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How to renew your passport in person

If your passport has been damaged, lost or stolen; was issued before you turned 16; or is more than 15 years old, you'll need to renew it in person with the following documentation:

Form DS-11: You can fill out the DS-11 passport application online or by hand, but don't sign the form until an authorized agent instructs you to do so.
Proof of U.S. citizenship: This evidence can take the form of an original or certified copy of a U.S. birth certificate, a Certificate of Naturalization, a Certificate of Citizenship or a Consular Report of Birth Abroad, among certain other options . Aside from the physical proof, you must also bring a photocopy for the State Department to keep.
Identification document: Your government-issued photo ID can be a driver's license, a government employee or military ID, a valid foreign passport, a Certificate of Naturalization, a Certificate of Citizenship, or another form of ID deemed acceptable by the State Department. Just as with the citizenship proof, you have to make a photocopy of your photo ID too.
Passport photo: See the FAQ section below for U.S. passport photo requirements.
Form of payment: When submitting your application at a passport acceptance facility (such as designated libraries, post offices or local government offices), you'll need to pay for the application fee with either a check or money order payable to "U.S. Department of State." The acceptance facility will also charge a separate $35 fee that can be paid by money order or (at select locations) by check, cash or card.

Frequently Asked Questions

U.S. passports are valid for 10 years as long as they were issued when you were 16 years of age or older.

It's best to renew your passport several months before it expires, factoring in mailing times plus current processing times, which are six to eight weeks. Note that in many countries, visitors' passports must be valid for at least six months beyond the date you intend to return to the U.S. You can check the U.S. Department of State's website for information on policies by country.

No, but if you can't supply a birth certificate, you must be able to provide either a valid, undamaged passport; a Consular Report of Birth Abroad or Certification of Birth; a Certificate of Naturalization; or a Certificate of Citizenship. If your state issued a birth abstract (a summary of your birth record), you can submit it as long as it meets the requirements outlined by the U.S. Department of State.

If you cannot provide any of the above, you will need to submit secondary citizenship evidence such as a delayed birth certificate or a Letter of No Record, plus the DS-10 birth affidavit form and early public records like a baptism certificate or doctor's record of postnatal care. Consult the State Department website for other examples of early public records you can use.

Unless you make an appointment at a passport acceptance facility that is equipped to take passport photos, plan to provide a high-resolution photo taken in the last six months whether you complete the process online, by mail or in person.

Photo specs: The photo should be in color and measure 2 by 2 inches; use the State Department's photo tool to ensure it's the correct size. If you're taking the picture at home, stand in front of a plain white or off-white background that's well lit. You will need to have someone else snap the photo, as selfies are not permitted.

Clothing: Glasses are not permitted in photos, nor is any attire that resembles a uniform. It's best to wear plain, everyday clothing. Hats and head coverings aren't allowed in passport photos, unless you sign a statement verifying they are worn as part of a recognized religious practice or provide a written doctor's note confirming they're for a medical purpose.

Expression: Your head should be centered, in full view and facing forward. Pose with a neutral expression or natural smile (don't show your teeth) and ensure your eyes are open.

If you're confident you can follow the guidelines and want to take your photo at home, you can either print it yourself on matte or glossy photo paper or upload it to a passport photo printing service (offered by CVS, Target, Walmart and others). For online applications, you can simply upload the file.

Otherwise, a passport photo can be easily obtained for a fee from select post offices, shipping stores, passport acceptance facilities, and even big box stores and major drugstores (including the same ones that offer printing services).

Technically, you cannot "renew" a passport for a child younger than age 16. Instead, you must reapply using the same in-person process you went through to acquire their first passport. For a list of step-by-step instructions and required documentation for minors, see How to Get a U.S. Passport for Kids . If your child is at least 16 years of age, however, you can renew their passport using the methods detailed above.

If your name has changed since your last passport was issued, you'll need to provide documentation – such as a marriage certificate, divorce decree or court order – that serves as proof of the name change. This requirement applies with whatever method you choose to renew your passport.

As of 2024, the renewal fee for an adult passport book is $130. The State Department's fee calculator provides additional information on passport fees.

Routine processing times for expired passport renewals currently range from six to eight weeks, beginning when the passport center or agency receives your application to renew your passport, according to the U.S. Department of State. Sometimes the process can take less time, but don't count on it.

If you're in a rush to renew your passport, you can pay for expedited service. There are a couple of options:

If you can wait two to three weeks: Expedite your passport by mail. Clearly write "EXPEDITE" on the outside of the envelope. Be sure to submit payment for the $60 expediting fee with your application; if you also want to request the fastest return shipping (which takes one or two days), you'll need to pay $19.53 on top of that.

If you need your passport in days: If you have a life-or-death emergency that requires your passport to be renewed in days or urgent international travel plans necessitating a passport within two weeks, you'll need to make an appointment with a regional passport agency.

Also an option is a service such as RushMyPassport , touting easy, expedited service in as little as one week (though these services can come with a hefty fee). If you're a member of AAA, you can take advantage of exclusive rates on expedited passport renewals through RushMyPassport.

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How to Renew Your Passport

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Table of Contents

How long does it take to renew your passport?

Reasons to renew your passport ahead of expiration, passport renewal fees, how to renew your passport by mail, in person or online, how often do you have to renew your passport, what to do if you have a lost or stolen passport.

Even if an international trip isn't on your calendar anytime soon, grab your passport and check when it expires. If your passport expires within the next year, don’t wait to renew. Some countries will not allow you to enter if your passport expires within six months. And it costs extra money to get a turnaround on your renewal quickly.

According to the U.S. Department of State, current passport processing timelines are as follows:

Routine processing: Six to eight weeks.

Expedited processing: Two to three weeks.

What's more, making an emergency visit to a passport agency if it doesn’t come in time is stressful, and not a great way to start your vacation. Here's how to renew your passport.

Though the State Department gives estimations for returning passports to applicants, you run the risk of being that one-off case that took longer than normal.

In addition, the State Department’s projected processing times do not include mailing times, and the department also warns that it can take up to two weeks for your application to actually be acknowledged as “in process.”

Add that all up, and it’s reasonable to start applying for your passport renewal now — even if it doesn’t expire this year.

It may not be valid for some travel — even if its still valid

Some countries require that passports be valid at least six months beyond the dates of your trip.

That means even if your passport doesn’t expire until the end of 2024, you might not be able to travel internationally during the summer of 2024 if it expires within six months. In fact, some airlines won’t allow you to board with a passport that is near expiry (and hey, you probably don’t want to fly 20 hours to Dubai only to find the United Arab Emirates won’t let you into the country).

The State Department’s Country Information page provides details on which countries have such requirements.

Expedited processing fees will eat into your vacation budget

If you procrastinate, then not all is lost — except some of your vacation fund. You can pay extra to receive a passport more quickly, but you’ll have to pay an additional $60 for expedited service.

And even still, the process isn't exactly speedy. Double or triple that cost if you have family members who need that service as well.

You could use a passport to fly domestically too (unless you have Real ID)

Even if you don’t plan to travel internationally anytime in the next few years, a passport could be necessary for domestic travel.

Beginning May 7, 2025, you’ll need Real ID-compliant identification to board domestic flights. Real ID is a state-issued driver’s license or identification card with a star. To obtain Real ID-compliant identification, you’ll typically have to visit your state’s driver’s licensing agency.

To obtain Real ID-compliant identification, you’ll typically have to visit your state’s driver’s licensing agency.

However, you can avoid a trip to the DMV for a new license by showing other acceptable identification at the airport, such as a passport or passport card. Depending on what your local DMV lines are like, it might be easier to just have a valid passport and use it for all domestic and international travel.

How much does it cost to renew your passport? For first-time passport applicants, the cost is $165, including $130 for the application fee and $35 for the execution (or acceptance) fee.

Those who plan to renew their passport do not need to pay the acceptance fee again. You'll be charged $30 for a passport card, $130 for a passport or $160 for both, per person. Expedited services is an additional $60 per person, and if you need it even faster, you can also pay for expedited delivery (one to two days) for an additional $19.53.

Renew by mail

In general, the easiest way to renew your passport is by mail. You can do this if all of the following apply:

You have your passport in your possession (and can submit it with your application).

It is undamaged (aside from normal wear and tear).

You received it when you were at least 16 years old.

It was issued within the past 15 years.

It was either issued to your current name or you can submit documentation of your name change.

To apply by mail, you’ll need the following:

A filled-out DS-82 form .

Your most recent passport.

Name change documents (such as a marriage certificate), if applicable.

A passport photo taken in the past six months.

Payment via personal check or money order to the U.S. Department of State of $130 for a passport book, $30 for a passport card or $160 for both. Expedited service costs an additional $60.

Mail your application and documents to the National Passport Processing Center ( addresses and renewal details can be found here ).

Renew passport in person

If one of the above five scenarios doesn't apply to you, then you’ll need to apply in person. To apply in person, you’ll need the following:

A filled-out DS-82 form.

How to renew your passport online

In the spring of 2023, the U.S. Department of State offered a limited release of online renewal services. This application pathway has since been pause and is no longer available.

A nationwide release is pending improvements to the system.

While you cannot submit an application online now, you can still renew by mail if you are eligible.

Passports expire every 10 years if it was issued after you turned 16 years old. If your current passport was issued while you were 15 and younger, it is valid for 5 years.

Maybe you moved recently and your passport got lost in the shuffle. Or you tossed it in a box after a year of uncertainty of when you’d ever use it again — and now you can’t fathom finding it.

You’ll need to report your lost or stolen passport to the State Department. From there, you must apply for a replacement passport , and standard fees apply.

You can renew an expired passport if the passport was issued within the past 15 years only. If the passport was issued earlier than that, go through the same steps of applying for a new passport.

The cost to renew a passport book is $130. It’s $30 to renew a passport card, or $160 for both. Expedited service costs an additional $60.

Yes, your passport photo must have been taken in the past six months from the time you submit the new passport application.

Yes, your old passport book or passport card will be returned (you need to mail in your most recent passport if you are renewing by mail). It usually will be sent separately from the new passport.

If you were at least 16 years old when the passport was issued, your passport is valid for 10 years. Otherwise, it’s valid for five years.

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On a similar note...

How to apply for and renew a US passport

Finally, the world is starting to ease travel restrictions and welcoming American travelers. Are you ready? First things first, you’re going to need an active U.S. passport to visit any international destination. The current estimated processing time for new passports is 8 to 11 weeks, according to the U.S. State Department, but many reports have indicated longer than usual waiting periods. So, don’t procrastinate.

We’ve combed through the State Department website and created a step-by-step guide to help you apply for and renew your U.S. passport to help you get ready, stay ready, and fly with confidence.

Get Ready: Applying for your first U.S. passport

If this is your first U.S. passport you will have to fill out Form DS-11 and apply in person at an application acceptance facility. Many post offices offer this service, though you may have to schedule an appointment once you’ve gathered all your paperwork. To find a facility near you, search here .

You’ll need to provide the following:

Proof of citizenship

Bring an original or certified copy and a photocopy of the front and back of one of the following:
U.S. birth certificate that meets all of the following requirements: Issued by the city, county, or state of birth
Lists your full name, date of birth, and place of birth
Lists your parent(s)’ full names
Has the date filed with the registrar’s office (must be within one year of birth)
Has the registrar’s signature of the seal of the issuing authority
Consular Report of Birth Abroad or Certification of Birth
Certification of Naturalization or Citizenship

Woman Holds US Passport With COVID-19 Vaccination Card

Proof of Identity

Present your original identification and submit a photocopy of the front and back with your application. Examples you could use include:

Driver’s license
Military identification
Certificate of Naturalization or Citizenship

Color Passport Photo

Taken less than 6 months ago
2x2 inches in size
Not wearing a hat or glasses
Taken in front of a plain white or off-white background
Your head must face the camera directly
Photo must be printed on matte or glossy photo quality paper

The current fee for a non-expedited adult U.S. passport book is $165 ($130 application fee + $35 execution fee). Fees can vary depending on a variety of things, including if you want a passport book and card. You don’t need both but you do need the passport book. However, some find the passport card a convenient additional form of identification when traveling. It fits easily in your pocket, wallet or bag; and you can keep your passport book safely stored in your hotel safe. Calculate your exact fee here .

Young Asian woman with passport carrying suitcase walking in the airport concourse

Stay Ready: Renewing your U.S. passport

The easiest way to renew your passport is by mail, as long as…

You have your physical passport and can submit it with your application
Your passport is not damaged, aside from normal wear and tear
Your passport was issued when you were 16 years old or older
Your passport was issued within the last 15 years
Your passport was issued under your current name or you can document your legal name change.

You will also have to fill out Form DS-82 and submit the following documents:

Your most recent U.S. passport
Name change document, if applicable
Color passport photo (following the same instructions listed above)
Processing fee (calculate here )
Mail all your documents to the appropriate address listed below, depending on your home state and processing time request.

For Routine Service (If you live in California, Florida, Illinois, Minnesota, New York, or Texas):

National Passport Processing Center

Post Office Box 640155

Irving, TX 75064-0155

For Routine Service (If you live in any other state or Canada):

Post Office Box 90155

Philadelphia, PA 19190-0155

For Expedited Service (Additional fee applies for any state or Canada):

Write " EXPEDITE " on the outside of the mailing envelope.

Post Office Box 90955

Philadelphia, PA 19190-0955

You’re almost there. Many international destinations require that your passport be valid at least six months beyond the dates of your trip, so always check your passport expiration date before planning. Also, with constantly changing Covid19 rules and protocols, it’s important to pay attention to the regulations of your destination.

Need some inspiration? Check out our Travelers’ Choice Awards —decided by travelers just like you.

Forget the lines: You may be able to renew your passport online

Renewing your U.S. passport could become much less stressful for some.

Qualifying U.S. citizens can renew their passports online which started on Friday, according to an announcement by the State Department.

"We are committed to the President’s Executive Order on Transforming Federal Customer Experience and Service Delivery to Rebuild Trust in Government," a spokesperson for the State Department told USA TODAY in an email. "Delivering on this promise, we are working toward providing a secure online passport renewal option. Our new online system will save Americans money, time, and effort, making it much more convenient to renew their passports."

Applications will be accepted until a cap is reached, but the spokesperson did not say what the amount is. On Saturday, the agency posted an update saying they reached their monthly goal and that the program will reopen in October.

To renew your passport , you need to mail in your most recent passport plus documents with sensitive information like your Social Security number or make an appointment at a Regional Passport Agency.

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The State Department ran a similar pilot program in August for 25,000 members of the public – it took just 10 days for the limit to be hit. In February, the department tested the system for federal government employees and contractors.

"If this program is successful, it will alleviate a lot of headaches to renewing your passport – making it more time efficient and easy to do online avoids a lot of headaches when sending your passport in and then not knowing when it arrives (at) the passport office," April Cheng, travel expert for TravelChic World , said. "There have been cases where passports have been lost in the mail and/or stolen."

A full public launch of online passport renewal is expected in early 2023, according to the spokesperson.

What can I renew?

You will have the option to renew both passport books and cards, but not if you have one and only want the other – like if you have a passport book but just want to apply for a passport card.

How do I qualify for online renewal?

There are a few requirements to meet if you're hoping to try out the online renewal process, including these key ones:

Your most recent passport is/was valid for 10 years.
That passport was issued between nine and 15 years ago.
You are 25 years old or older.
You're not changing your name, gender, date of birth, or place of birth.
You are not traveling out of the country for at least six weeks from when you submit your application.
You're applying for a regular tourist passport.
You live in the U.S.

How do I participate in the program?

Those who meet the requirements of the State Department can make a MyTravelGov account, a new feature from the State Department where people can apply for an electronic Consular Report of Birth Abroad and renew their U.S. passport. Applicants will receive an email to activate your account.

Applicants can log in and see an option to "Renew Passport" after four hours past registration.

To complete the online renewal, applicants will also need to be able to upload a digital photo and pay using a credit or debit card or Automated Clearing House.

The pilot program is taking applications on "a first-come, first-served basis" so it's possible that an application will not make it into the program if the limit is hit.

If you registered your MyTravelGov account after 12:24 p.m. EDT on Saturday, you'll need to wait to submit your application until the program reopens next month. Those who did before can still submit if they meet the requirements.

How long is a U.S. passport good for? Here's what you need to know.

Is online renewal faster?

No, the processing time will be the same as renewing by mail. In August, the processing time for a passport took between eight and 11 weeks, with five to seven weeks for expedited processing.

"In my opinion, even if the processing time is almost the same as the traditional way, it is better for the American travelers," Kendry Dupree, travel agent for Allure Vacations , said. "One of the benefits of the online Passport Renewal Pilot Program is that it reduces the hassle of traditional renewal of passports."

She added that the traditional method "wastes a lot of time."

Will my passport still be valid if I apply?

As soon as you submit your online application, your most recent passport will immediately become invalid.

Should I try the program if I'm traveling soon?

Both Cheng and Dupree advised against trying to renew your passport online if you're planning on leaving the country soon. Dupree warns that for some, "it might disrupt their traveling plans."

Cheng said there could be a lag time.

"It is a pilot program, so there could be hurdles on how fast they can get the passport back to you," Cheng said. "I would definitely try this new pilot program if you’re not planning on traveling internationally in the next six months to prepare for backlog or potential hurdles with a new program."

5 things I learned when renewing my passport for the 1st time

Passports are your key to the world, allowing you to cross borders, explore new places and experience different cultures. They are also a pain in the you-know-what to renew.

I recently renewed my passport for the first time, and it was quite a tumultuous experience. When I applied in late January, the online renewal portal through MyTravelGov was open, so I decided to take my chances and renew my passport that way.

I figured that after the first rounds of online renewals last year, the kinks would have been ironed out. Boy, was I wrong. I ended up getting my passport a mere 10 days before international travel.

I will caveat my experience with this: I had a very tight window to renew. My passport wouldn't technically expire until January 2024, but I planned an international trip with family in August 2023. So, I needed to have more than six months until my passport expired. I could've renewed over the summer, but I was worried about a rumored government shutdown in June or shortly after.

I had a trip planned for April 2, so I had to renew sometime before that. However, I couldn't renew before Jan. 23 because you can't renew more than a year before a passport expires. That left me with just about nine weeks to get my passport renewed before my trip at the beginning of April.

These are the five things I learned when I renewed my passport for the first time and some tips to make your experience easier than mine.

Allow for lots of breathing room

Going into this experience, I definitely underestimated how long it would take to get my passport renewed. When I submitted it Jan. 29, I got an email that it was received on the same day. So, I naively figured it would take the expected three-to-five-week period for my passport to arrive. But as days turned into weeks and weeks and weeks, I became less confident.

A co-worker submitted his Jan. 25, so I figured we were in the same cycle. However, I became worried when he mentioned that his application status switched to "in process" just four hours after he submitted his application. We even went so far as to compare the numbers of our applications. Mine hovered at "received" almost the entire time until it suddenly switched to "in process" on March 21.

I recommend giving yourself at least 12 weeks before international travel, if not 15. At the time of writing this, the U.S. Department of State is quoting 10 to 13 weeks for routine renewal and seven to nine for expedited renewal. The State Department also recommends renewing passports "well ahead of any planned international travel, even if it still has a few months validity left on it," according to its website. Remember that some destinations require you to have a valid passport for at least six months after your travel dates.

Note: There are also passport agencies and centers that can process the application almost immediately, but it's extremely difficult to get an appointment. I tried calling numerous times to schedule one, and sometimes the phones weren't even connected. Also, you must have imminent travel within two weeks to even get a shot at an appointment.

When in doubt, expedite. Always.

My saving grace in this whole mess was that I expedited from the get-go, and I paid for two-day shipping. I didn't mention earlier that I was scheduled to move out of my New York City apartment March 27 and was then traveling for work right after. The pressure was on.

If you're unsure about whether the routine processing will get your passport to you in time for your vacation, I highly recommend expediting it. It will cost an extra $60, but in my opinion, it's worth it. If you're even more concerned about your timing, I also suggest tacking on the two-day shipping. This will cost you roughly another $20, but again, I was pressed for time. On top of the base fare for renewal ($130), I paid an additional $80, which brought my total to $210 for my renewal.

While I know this isn't an option for every traveler, it isn't something I would have done if my window for renewal this year wasn't so tight. If I didn't have pending travel and a tricky expiration time frame, I wouldn't have paid the extra $80.

Reach out to your local representative

As my application sat in the purgatory that is the "received" status, I decided to reach out to my elected official. I thought the least they could do was contact the State Department for me since, ultimately, that's part of the job. Congressman Jerry Nadler was one of my elected officials, so I went to his website and filled out a casework request for my passport.

On March 20, a representative at his office informed me by email that the State Department was "having issues due to the volume of renewal applications they received through the new online portal."

She explained that previously, the office could reach out to the passport agency location to request immediate processing, regardless of the applicant's travel date. "However, the online renewals are so backed up that the Dept. of State is currently only accepting congressional inquiries on cases with confirmed travel within 2 weeks," she wrote.

I confirmed to her that my travel was within two weeks and provided my flight number. She further requested an electronic privacy release form and my flight itinerary, which I sent (although she later responded that my release form never went through). It turned out that my application status had changed from "received" to "in process" earlier that morning, but I still provided the information in case it was further delayed. My passport was shipped the following day, March 22.

Although it seems like my passport changed to "in process" right around the time the caseworker contacted me, I think it was a coincidence. Despite this, I still recommend contacting a local elected official to aid you in your renewal efforts because she was extremely helpful.

Maybe opt for mail-in renewal

As the State Department streamlines the process of online renewals, it might be better to stick to mail renewal. This might even be the only option available to you, as the State Department paused online renewals March 8. "During our limited release, over 500,000 customers volunteered to submit their applications online and test our system," the website states. "We look forward to launching the enhanced application in a full, nationwide release later this year."

Even though the online renewal option will be available later this year, I think it might be wise to stick with mail-in renewal until the department smooths out the process. Also, the website I used to renew online was extremely temperamental, and I was only able to get to my application status every so often. The site often crashed, which was an issue my co-worker also had.

Expect delays

Unfortunately, it seems like passport renewals are delayed no matter which route you take. Demand is high, and backlogs are imminent. This delayed service is expected, following confirmation to TPG in March and reflecting the agency's upcoming busy season with summer travel. Demand for passports has soared, with 30% to 40% more requests than at the same time last year, according to U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken.

Plan ahead and make sure you submit your application well before upcoming travel. Don't plan nonrefundable travel if you are hovering around a passport expiration/delayed passport renewal. Or, buy travel insurance , just in case.

Bottom line

This was a stressful experience, but it helped that I was on top of the process and exhausted many avenues to speed up my renewal. I had a unique time frame to get my new passport, so I got lucky when it finally arrived before my international travel. Expect it to take a while, especially over the summer, as demand for passports increases. Stay patient and remain calm. Now I return to my motto: Have passport. Will travel.

Additional reporting by Caroline Tanner.

How to Get an Emergency Passport Renewal in 72-Hours or Less

Front of U.S. passport book with epassport symbol.

Emergency passport renewals are only available to travelers with a documented life-or-death emergency that requires urgent international travel within the next 24-72 hours. This express passport renewal option can be used to renew an expired passport or one that does not meet the validity requirement for the country you need to visit.

Some reasons your passport may not be valid include:

Your passport expired - You cannot travel abroad with an expired passport .
Your passport expiration date is too soon - Different countries have different rules about how much validity your passport needs to have. Some countries simply require your passport to be valid for the duration of your stay. Some countries require three or six months of remaining validity on your passport.
Your passport does not have enough remaining visa pages - You cannot add pages to a passport . As such, it's important to know how many blank passport pages countries require . This includes both countries you are traveling to and through.

In situations like these, you only have two ways to get your travel document quickly. You can either submit your application at a regional agency or you can request emergency passport renewal through an authorized expediting service .

In some circumstances, it is possible to get a passport renewal in 24 hours. However, processing delays can extend the wait time for an emergency passport to up to 3 business days.

Be Sure You Qualify for Emergency Passport Renewal

Be advised: you can only renew a passport if you meet the following criteria:

You still physically have your most recent passport . In addition to the passport application, fees, and supporting documents, you need to submit your previous passport when applying to renew it. This means a lost or stolen passport cannot be renewed.
Your last passport was issued within the past 15 years . U.S. passports are valid for 10 years. So, even if your passport is no longer valid, it can still be renewed as long as the expiration date is less than 5 years ago.
Your passport is not extremely damaged . The US Department of State will not accept excessively torn, burnt, mutilated, or water damaged passports for renewal.
You want to renew an adult passport book or passport card . A child's passport book or card does not qualify for emergency passport renewal. That said, there are expedited passport services for getting a child's passport quickly .

If your existing passport doesn't meet the requirements above, it is still possible to get emergency passport service. You need to follow this guide to getting a new passport in an emergency ; the instructions outlined below are only for an urgent passport renewal.

The Department of State approves emergency passport applications for new and first time passports as long as you can provide sufficient proof of your urgent travel needs. If you have an emergency that requires traveling internationally but don't qualify for a passport renewal, check out our guide to emergency passport service .

If you do not have proof of urgent travel plans, there are several other methods of US passport renewal that you should explore instead.

Again, be aware that getting a same-day or one-day passport renewal is typically only available to those who have sufficent proof of a life-or-death emergency.

What Qualifies as a Life or Death Emergency for Urgent Passport Service?

Per the U.S. Department of State website:

To qualify for life-or-death emergency service, your immediate family member must be a parent, legal guardian, child, spouse, sibling, or grandparent.

To be clear, other relatives such as aunts, uncles, cousins do not qualify for life-or-death emergency service. Furthermore, simply visiting another country for medical treatments or medication doesn't qualify, either.

Note : You will need to supply sufficient proof to the Department of State to qualify for this level of expedited service.

The process remains the same as getting an emergency passport renewal for urgent travel, with the exception being how you make the appointment.

On Mondays through Fridays from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. (ET), call 1-877-487-2778.
If you have a life-or-death emergency after 8:00 p.m. (ET) on Mondays through Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays, and federal holidays, call 202-647-4000. This number is not for use between 8:00 a.m. and 8:00 p.m. (ET) on Mondays through Fridays.

Emergency Passport Renewal at a Regional Agency

If you choose to attempt an emergency passport renewal on your own, know that there is no room for error. Even a simple mistake can delay your international travel.

There are three steps that must must happen in order for you to renew a US passport at a regional processing center.

Depending on the time of year and the passport agency you call, it may require several attempts to finally reach a representative.

A walk in appointment is possible, but it is a big risk-especially if you have an emergency. Calling to make an appointment ahead of time is a better choice.

Completed Form DS-82 - This is the standard U.S. passport application document for renewing an adult passport.
Your most recent passport - Again, passports must have been issued within the past 15 years and be relatively undamaged (normal wear and tear is acceptable).
One passport photo - Passport photos must be taken within the last 6 months and follow the passport photo size and content guidelines issued by the Department of State.

When applying in person at a passport office, you can pay your passport fees with cash (exact amount only), check, money order, or most credit or debit cards (including most pre-paid cards).

Name change documentation - If your name has been legally changed since you got your previous passport, you also need submit an official document to support this.
Evidence of travel - Most, regional agencies require evidence of travel if you are applying for emergency passport services. This is the only way you can get the fastest processing time.

Emergency Renewals through an Expedited Passport Courier Service

Applicants who do not want to take the time to make an appointment or who are unable to travel to the nearest regional agency, can authorize a registered expediter to submit the US passport renewal application form on their behalf. For some people, this is the fastest, and most cost-effective way to get emergency passports . It also reduces the risk of errors or delays.

To get emergency passport service through a passport expediting service, follow the steps below:

Complete the online application form
Send the following to the passport expediter:
Completed and signed form DS-82
Your current passport
New passport photos
Payment for all fees
Any proof of your emergency travel needs
Any additional documentation of legal name change

Since you need a passport so quickly, you should select same day passport service and send your documents using two-way overnight delivery like priority mail express.

At this point, you should receive a status update including projected processing times for your emergency passport renewal.

When the application has been processed, a representative will visit the agency on your behalf and pick up your renewed passport. It will then be sent to you by express mail.

Click for reliable expedited passport courier service .

Emergency Passport Service While Traveling Abroad

American citizens who are traveling abroad and need to renew a United States passport quickly due to an emergency can do this at the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate general. Emergency or limited-validity passports can be issued the same day. They are usually valid for one year but can be replaced before the expiration date for a full-validity passport at no additional cost. If you find yourself in this situation, you can find a U.S. embassy or consulate general here .

Emergency Passports for Minors

As mentioned previously, passports for a minor cannot be renewed-even in an emergency. However, you can still get a passport for a child quickly, whether there is an emergency need to travel or not.

There are a very unique set of steps you must follow. Check out our guide for expediting a passport for a minor .

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Passport Backlog Eases: Your Questions Answered

Find the solutions to common passport questions about cost, timing and more.

a passport application sign inside a NYC Post Office

Veronica Stoddart,

This year is on track to set a record for the highest demand for passports, according to the U.S. State Department. From October 2022 to September 2023, the State Department issued more than 24 million passport books and cards, the most ever. Passport processing delays were lengthy as a result. Now the State Department said processing times are at pre-pandemic levels.

Amid all the confusion around getting a passport, here are some tips to guide you through the ins and outs of the process.

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Passport application and renewal

How can you apply for a passport.

If it’s your first time, you have to apply in person at a passport acceptance facility .

How should you renew a passport?

To renew, mail the application and supporting documents (your most recent passport, a photo and passport fees) through the U.S. Postal Service. Make sure you’re eligible to renew before you mail in your application.

How long does it take to get and renew a passport?

As of Dec. 18, the State Department reports that processing time for routine applications takes six to eight weeks, down from seven to 10 weeks, for new passports and passport renewals .

Mailing can add up to two weeks for the application to arrive at a passport agency or center and up to two weeks for you to receive your passport.

Expediting a passport

How can you expedite a new passport or renewal.

You can upgrade your passport application from routine to three categories: expedited , urgent travel or emergency for an additional $60 (on top of the application fee of $130 for a new or renewed passport plus the execution fee of $35 for a new one).

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You can also add one- to two-day delivery for $19.53.

Expedited: Choose this service if you’re traveling in less than 10 weeks from the date you submit your application. Processing takes two to three weeks, down from three to five weeks (not including mailing time). You can expedite a renewal by mail or a new passport at an acceptance facility such as a post office, clerk of court, public library or other local government office that accepts passport applications.
Urgent travel: Choose this service if you are traveling within the expedited service time of two to three weeks. Call 877-487-2778 to make an appointment at a passport agency or center within 14 calendar days of your travel date if you have not already applied or within five calendar days if you have already applied (appointments are accepted only by phone). Note: Passport agencies and centers are operated by the State Department and are different from passport acceptance facilities. Appointments are limited and cannot be guaranteed.
Emergency: Choose this service if you have a life-or-death emergency that requires travel within three business days. Call 877-487-2778 or 202-647-4000, depending on the day and time, to make an appointment at a passport agency or center and provide proof of the qualifying emergency and proof of travel.

Another option is to use a private passport expediter or courier service. Some of these companies are registered with State Department passport agencies and are allowed to submit expedited passport applications on behalf of customers. Check the website for language that says “Authorized/Registered by State Department.”

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These companies may charge several hundred dollars for expediting services, or charge for services that are offered for free by the State Department, such as making an appointment and filling out a form. Buyer beware: The State Department may not be able to honor appointments booked via third parties, according to a department spokesperson.

Passport types and options

What is an electronic passport.

An electronic or e-Passport contains an electronic chip with the same information that is printed on the passport’s ID page. It provides protection against identity theft and makes it difficult to use an altered or forged passport.

All U.S. passports issued from 2006 to 2022 were e-Passports, distinguished by the international e-Passport symbol on the front cover. Since then, new passports are Next Generation Passports, redesigned to be safer and smarter with enhanced security features, according to a State Department spokesperson.

When should you get a “backup” passport?

A second passport is useful in a number of situations. For example, if you plan to visit two foreign destinations within a tight time frame and need visas for both.

There may not be enough time to wait for the first visa to be added to your passport before you need to submit your passport to apply for the second visa.

Travel writer and former Travel + Leisure international editor Mark Orwoll discovered this the hard way when he was planning back-to-back trips to countries that both required visas.

When he found out he could get a second passport, he had to pay an expediting service $649 (in addition to the State Department’s $60 expedite fee) to rush it and to facilitate both visas so he could get them on time. “I hated to spend so much money, but the expediter got it for me in a matter of days,” Orwoll says. “Because I travel so much overseas, I decided it was worth it. And besides, it’s pretty cool to have two passports!”

Another reason to have two passports is if a foreign country denies you a visa or entry because your passport has stamps showing travel to certain countries. For example, an Israeli entry or exit stamp will prevent you from entering some Arab countries, such as Kuwait, Lebanon and others. Two passports will allow you to divide your entry stamps.

The second passport will be valid for four years or less, instead of 10 for the original one. You must meet several additional requirements to get it.

Can you add visa pages to a passport?

No. If you need additional visa pages in your passport, you must renew it. If you travel overseas frequently and anticipate needing extra visa pages, apply for a “large book,” which provides 24 extra blank pages for stamps and visas at no extra charge.

Should you keep a photocopy of your passport when you travel?

Yes. Losing your passport on an international trip can be very disrupting. To facilitate getting a replacement, keep a photo of your passport ID page on your cellphone or bring a photocopy with you and store it in a separate place from your passport so you have a record if your passport is lost or stolen, says Kevin Coffey, author of Traveler Beware! An Undercover Cop’s Guide to Avoiding: Pickpockets, Luggage Theft, & Travel Scams . To get a replacement , bring your copy to the nearest embassy or consulate, complete a loss report and an application form, show an additional government ID and supply one recent passport photo.

someone filling out a passport application or renewal form

Passport card

What is a passport card, and where can you use it.

A passport card is a wallet-size document that can only be used to reenter the United States at land border crossings and seaports of entry from Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean and Bermuda. It provides a less expensive ($30), smaller alternative to the passport book for those who travel frequently to these destinations by land or sea.

Passport cards cannot be used for international travel by air.

To apply for a passport card , use the same form as applying for a passport book. You can apply for both simultaneously. The processing time for the card is the same as for the book, but cards are only sent via first-class mail.

Editor's note: This article was originally published on Nov. 8. It has been updated to reflect new information.

Award-winning travel writer Veronica Stoddart is the former travel editor of USA Today . She has written for dozens of travel publications and websites.

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Form Finder -- Passport Forms

If you are applying for a U.S. passport, use the Passport Form Filler to fill out our primary forms (DS-11, DS-82, DS-5504, and DS-64) online and print them. The Form Filler will save you time and reduce the chance of errors on your form.

In need of a US passport? Here's what to know about applying in central Iowa

Ready to book an international vacation and in need of a passport? First-timers applying for passports should keep in mind the process requires time, money and planning. There are different fees and documents needed for the process that can take up to a couple of months to complete.

Here is everything you need to know before starting the passport application process:

How to get a passport in Polk County?

If you're applying for a passport for the first time, you have to turn in your documents in person.

Several local post offices, plus the Polk City Public Library and Polk County Recorder's Office serve as passport acceptance facilities. You can find a complete list at travel.state.gov or make an appointment through the post office's website at usps.com . There are more than 100 locations across the state of Iowa.

You can fill out the paperwork online through the State Department's Form Filler tool to save time and reduce the chance of errors.

How much is a US passport?

You will pay two sets of fees to apply for a passport.

The first is the State Department's passport fee. A passport card, which is not accepted for air travel, is $30. A first-time passport book is $130, while both the book and the card are $160, according to the State Department.

All passport acceptance facilities in Polk County also charge a $35 acceptance or agent fee.

Additional fees may apply if you need a facility to take your photo or need to rush an application.

What documents do I need for a passport application?

Prepare to submit a birth certificate, naturalization certificate or an expired passport for the application process. You will also need a valid driver's license or some form of personal identification. There is an application form that must be completed along with a fee.

How long does it take to get a passport?

Typically, passport processing takes six to eight weeks, according to the State Department.

How to get a passport photo

The photo must be in color and 2x2 inch in size. The background of the photo must be an off-white or plain white, according to Polk County .

The Polk County Recorder's Office and Polk City Public Library offer a photo service for a $15 fee. Select USPS passport acceptance facilities will also take your passport photo for $15. CVS and Walgreens also offer passport photo services.

Can I get a same-day passport in Iowa?

No. The earliest a passport can be expedited in Iowa is two to three weeks , which does not include mailing time. It costs an extra $60.

The State Department also offers an "urgent" processing that must be done in-person and requires that you have international travel within 14 days. The closest passport offices are in Minneapolis or Chicago.

Can you renew a passport online?

The State Department tested an online application system for renewals, but it has been paused since March 2023 .

Renewals can be completed by mail depending on if you meet the requirements , which include the following:

I can submit my passport with my application.
It is not damaged (other than normal wear and tear ).
I have never reported it lost or stolen.
It was issued within the last 15 years.
It was issued when I was age 16 or older.
It was issued in my current name, or I can provide another document such as a marriage certificate or divorce decree that is evidence of my name change.
It was not limited to less than the normal 10-year period of validity because I've lost multiple passports or I've had multiple damaged passports.

Kate Kealey is a general assignment reporter for the Register. Reach her at [email protected] or follow her on Twitter at @ Kkealey17 .

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3 Ways to Renew Your Passport in a Hurry — and Everything Else to Know

Posted: February 6, 2024 | Last updated: February 6, 2024

Excited to have a vacation on the horizon, I bought airline tickets for a trip out of the country recently. To my shock, the airline alerted me that my passport would expire before my trip. Suddenly, I needed to move fast to get the passport renewed.

There’s been a big demand for passports in recent years, with the growth of overseas travel. “In 1990, only 5 percent of Americans had a passport. Today, that number is 48 percent,” the State Department says . For a time the agency fell behind its goal of processing applications within six to eight weeks for routine applications, although it says that it has caught up now.

Besides the routine approach for renewing a passport, there are three other, faster ways to renew: expedited, urgent and emergency. Each has rules, fees and processing times.

Read on to learn about your options to renew a passport, including official routes (click the timelines for details) and how to speed up a renewal application that’s already in the system. We also look briefly at private companies — couriers and expediters not affiliated with the government — that claim to process passport renewals quickly.

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<ul> <li><strong>Time left before travel: </strong>Eight weeks or more</li> <li><strong>Fees</strong><strong>:</strong> <a href="https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/passports/how-apply/fees.html">Passport book,</a> $130; passport card (not good for international air travel), $30. Postage not included. Optional <a href="https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/passports/passport-help/faqs.html#:~:text=If%20you%20were%20age%2016,front%20of%20your%20passport%20card.">one- to two-day delivery</a> service, $19.53, is available for passport books only.</li> </ul> <p>Submit a routine renewal application if you’re not in a rush. Routine processing time is six to eight weeks, not including mailing.</p> <p>According to a hotline agent I spoke with, you can either <a href="https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/passports/have-passport/renew.html">renew by mail</a> or <a href="https://passportappointment.travel.state.gov/">make an appointment</a> with a passport agency near you. (For now, a trial online system<a href="https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/passports/have-passport/renew-online.html"> has been paused</a>.) Download and complete <a href="https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/passports/how-apply/forms.html">Form DS-82</a>, or use the <a href="https://pptform.state.gov/">online Form Filler Tool</a> and print the completed form at home.</p> <p>As you’d expect, government forms and rules can be fussy. <a href="https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/passports/how-apply.html">This link explains</a> how to apply, including how to take a good photo. Children under age 16 <a href="https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/passports/need-passport/under-16.html">aren’t eligible</a> to renew using Form DS-82. Instead, use <a href="https://eforms.state.gov/Forms/ds11_pdf.PDF">Form DS-11</a> and apply in person. You can get help — no charge — filling out forms, answering questions and assembling your application at one of many official <a href="https://iafdb.travel.state.gov/">passport acceptance facilities</a> (including post offices, libraries and some local government offices).</p>

Routine passport renewal timeline

Time left before travel: Eight weeks or more
Fees : Passport book, $130; passport card (not good for international air travel), $30. Postage not included. Optional one- to two-day delivery service, $19.53, is available for passport books only.

Submit a routine renewal application if you’re not in a rush. Routine processing time is six to eight weeks, not including mailing.

According to a hotline agent I spoke with, you can either renew by mail or make an appointment with a passport agency near you. (For now, a trial online system has been paused .) Download and complete Form DS-82 , or use the online Form Filler Tool and print the completed form at home.

As you’d expect, government forms and rules can be fussy. This link explains how to apply, including how to take a good photo. Children under age 16 aren’t eligible to renew using Form DS-82. Instead, use Form DS-11 and apply in person. You can get help — no charge — filling out forms, answering questions and assembling your application at one of many official passport acceptance facilities (including post offices, libraries and some local government offices).

<p>Back when boomers were beginning to travel, it was common to head to one’s bank and buy a batch of <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/1996/05/18/your-money/IHT-travelers-check-at-105-shows-its-age.html">traveler’s checks</a>. Users signed the checks when they received them and then added a (presumably matching) signature when they purchased something. The main draw? Unlike cash, a lost traveler’s check could be easily replaced.</p> <p>But banking and spending have changed, and today, you can spend money on vacations much as you do at home — by using credit or debit cards, or withdrawing local currency from a bank machine.</p>

1. Expedited passport renewal

Time left before travel: Less than eight weeks

Fees: $60 expediting fee on top of application fee

Submit your expedited renewal application by mail or in person at a passport acceptance facility . Processing time (not including mailing) is two to three weeks.

Here’s how I made my expedited renewal application:

On advice from the National Passport Information Center hotline (1-877-487-2778), I took my completed application, regulation passport photos , old passport and a check for the application and processing fees to a U.S. Post Office. The passport hotline is open weekdays 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. ET and on weekends from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
I put everything in a USPS’ Priority Mail Express envelope, since I was in a hurry to receive my renewed passport. I called the passport hotline, and they advised using the one- to two-day delivery service for an additional fee.
My new passport arrived in two weeks, quicker than I’d dared hope. My old passport was returned separately.

Using USPS Priority Mail Express was a great tip from the hotline. Otherwise, an application can spend up to two weeks in the mail to the passport agency; and your new passport could spend another two weeks in the return mail.

<ul> <li><strong>Time left before travel: </strong>Two to three weeks</li> <li><strong>Fees:</strong> $60 expediting fee on top of application fee</li> </ul> <p>For <a href="https://passportappointment.travel.state.gov/">urgent travel</a> (if you’re traveling within 14 days or if you need a foreign visa within four weeks), you can skip the mail and <a href="https://passportappointment.travel.state.gov/">make an appointment</a> (no charge) online to visit <a href="https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/passports/get-fast/passport-agencies.html">a passport agency or center</a>. It’s OK to make your appointment as many as 14 days in advance, but the appointment itself must fall within five calendar days of your departure. No specific processing time is given for urgent applications.</p> <p><a href="https://www.moneytalksnews.com/10-small-money-moves-that-will-make-big-difference/">Related: 11 Small Money Moves That Will Make a Big Difference</a></p> <p>One hitch: “Appointments are limited and we cannot guarantee one will be available,” <a href="https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/passports/get-fast.html">the State Department says</a>. Walk-ins are not accepted.</p>

2. Urgent passport renewal

Time left before travel: Two to three weeks

For urgent travel (if you’re traveling within 14 days or if you need a foreign visa within four weeks), you can skip the mail and make an appointment (no charge) online to visit a passport agency or center . It’s OK to make your appointment as many as 14 days in advance, but the appointment itself must fall within five calendar days of your departure. No specific processing time is given for urgent applications.

Related: Half of All Retirees Say They Fear This

One hitch: “Appointments are limited and we cannot guarantee one will be available,” the State Department says . Walk-ins are not accepted.

<p>In general, checked baggage fees are nonrefundable. However, if your flight is canceled or impacted by a significant delay, and you opt not to travel, you are eligible for a refund from United.</p> <p>According to <a href="https://www.united.com/en/us/fly/contract-of-carriage.html">United’s contract of carriage</a>, passengers who are eligible for a refund of tickets, bags, or other fees, must request a refund within “90 days of the date the fee(s) was original paid or flight date, whichever is later.”</p> <p>Beyond that time frame, United is not obligated to provide a refund.</p> <p>United will only compensate damaged or lost baggage and baggage contents up to $3,800, and they exclude numerous items from being claimed (all items are listed in their contract of carriage), such as: antiques, flowers and plants, eyeglasses and musical instruments.</p>

3. Emergency passport renewal

Time left before travel: Three business days (72 hours)

This category of renewals is reserved for a life-or-death emergency that requires international travel. You’ll need an appointment. It’s OK to book the appointment as far as two weeks in advance but the appointment itself must be within three business days of your international travel.

Before making the appointment you’ll need to document the emergency. Here’s how to apply for an emergency passport renewal . Bring proof of travel to your appointment.

The emergency provision is for a documented “life-or-death” emergency involving an immediate family member (not aunt, uncle, cousin, or other relative) outside of the United States who:

Is dying (in hospice care)
Has a life-threatening injury or illness

Upgrading a passport application already in the system

If you’ve already submitted a passport renewal application but need to travel sooner than you’d thought, you can apply to upgrade your application.

The State Department explains how to proceed if you’ve already got an application in the system and have urgent travel. Call the passport hotline for instructions.

Are couriers and expediters worth it?

Some people, hoping to move quickly and willing to spend more money, use private courier and expediter companies . Such companies are not affiliated with the government, despite what some may say or imply.

A service may promise fast service for an additional fee. But with an outside service, “you will not receive your passport faster than applying at one of our passport agencies ,” the State Department says.

Some services may offer to wait in line for you, mail your documents or make an appointment on your behalf. But the State Department doesn’t charge for appointments and says, “If you are asked to pay for an appointment, you should consider the request to be fraudulent.”

The State Department doesn’t back promises from private companies or guarantee documents’ safety in the hands of couriers and expediters.

Also, scammers sometimes pose as passport expediters and courier companies. Experian, the credit agency, tells how to protect yourself from passport scams . The State Department also maintains a list of registered couriers .

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Passports, travel and living abroad

Renew or replace your adult passport

You must renew your passport before you can travel if either:

your passport has expired
you do not have enough time left on it

How much time you need on your passport depends on the country you’re visiting. Check the entry requirements of the country you want to travel to .

There are different rules if your passport is lost, stolen or damaged or you need to change your name or personal details .

If your passport is burgundy or has ‘European Union’ on the cover, you can still use it as long as it’s valid for travel.

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To renew your passport you’ll need:

your old passport
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Renew online

Use this service to renew your passport online. It costs £82.50.

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a digital photo
a credit or debit card
your passport

This service is also available in Welsh (Cymraeg) .

Renew using a paper application form

You can get a paper application form by either:

going to a Post Office that has a Check and Send service
calling the Passport Adviceline

It costs £93. You can pay by either:

debit or credit card - fill in the form in the application pack
cheque - made payable to ‘HM Passport Office’

You’ll need 2 new and identical printed photos of yourself.

Unexpired visas

Send your previous passport with the visa attached to it with your application. Your previous passport will be returned to you.

You’ll be able to use the visa if you carry both passports.

The rules are different if you’re travelling to Russia .

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How many months do I need left on my UK passport before I travel?

Many countries across the world require you to have a few months left on your passport at the time of travel – here are the main holiday destinations to watch out for, article bookmarked.

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You might think that you can just hop on a plane with an in-date passport and travel the world. In fact, many countries demand that visitors have months left on their passport before it expires.

Some – including Australia , Canada and the US – only require your travel document to be in date for the duration of your trip.

But others give a more restrictive time frame, with no real pattern from region to region – while most of Asia requires six months on your passport, for example, different Caribbean islands demand different time frames.

In some destinations, you can also be caught out for not having enough space left in your passport for new immigration stamps.

Here are the key passport validity rules for British passports for the world’s top holiday destinations.

Barred from Europe: 2.4m Brits caught in post-Brexit passport chaos
When do I need to renew my passport for travel to Europe?
This is the best time to renew your passport to save money

Valid for the duration of your stay

These countries only ask that your passport is valid until the day you leave the country.

*While this is technically the rule for Canada, if you have six months or less on your passport, it may take longer for you to get through immigration.

Valid for one day

Costa Rica requires Britons to have one day’s validity from the day of their departure.

Valid for three months

All EU countries, plus those in the Schengen Area (excluding Ireland) require you to have three months left on your passport from the day you plan to leave. Your passport must also be less than 10 years old on the day you enter the country. This is true for the following countries:

Republic of Cyprus
Czech Republic
Liechtenstein
Netherlands
Switzerland
Vatican City

These non-European countries also require three months’ validity on your day of departure:

British Virgin Islands
French Polynesia
New Zealand
South Korea

Valid for six months

In most cases, this means valid for six months from the date you arrive in the country, but it’s worth checking the Foreign Office’s individual entry requirements for the country you’re visiting to make sure.

Antigua and Barbuda
The Bahamas
Dominican Republic
Ecuador (& Galapagos Islands)
Madagascar*
Philippines
South Africa*
United Arab Emirates

*South Africa, Madagascar, Kenya also require you to have two blank pages left in your passport; Namibia requires one blank page.

Valid for 180 days

India requires a more specific 180 days of validity from the date you arrive. It also asks visitors to have two blank pages available for their visa.

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Our fees on this page are for customers applying in the United States and renewing by mail from Canada.
If you need to apply for or renew your U.S. passport in another country, visit the webpage of the U.S. embassy or consulate .

What fees should I pay?

I'm an adult (16 and older) and i'm applying for the first time.

You will need to pay both an application fee and an acceptance fee. Pay the acceptance fee to the facility which takes your application, and the application fee to the U.S. Department of State.

Our Apply in Person page has more information on how to submit your application.

I'm an adult (16 and older) and I'm renewing my passport

Adults (16 and older) may be able to renew their passport. Our Renew page has more information on how to submit your application.

My child is under 16 and I'm applying for his or her passport

All children must apply in person. You will need to pay both an application fee and an acceptance fee when applying for your child. Pay the acceptance fee to the facility which takes your child's application, and the application fee to the U.S. Department of State.

Our Children Under 16 page has more information on how to apply for a child's passport.

I'm changing or correcting my passport

I need to rush my passport or pay for a special service.

Include these fees as part of the application fee you pay to the U.S. Department of State.

We accept different forms of payment

Applying at a passport acceptance facility (post office, government office, library).

Go to our Apply In Person page to find the steps to apply.

You will need to pay both an application fee and an acceptance fee. Pay the acceptance fee to the facility which takes your application, and the application fee to the U.S. Department of State.

To pay for the application and special services such as expediting your application:

Submit a check (personal, certified, cashier's, traveler's) or money order payable to "U.S. Department of State"
You cannot pay using a credit or debit card.
Do not cancel your check or money order after you have applied.

To pay the separate $35 fee to the acceptance facility, contact your acceptance facility to learn what form of payment they will accept. Please note customers who want to apply at a post office must make an appointment directly on USPS.com . Some locations accept:

Personal checks and money orders
Credit cards. Note: the facility may add a surcharge to cover the cost of the credit card transaction.
Cash (exact amount only)

Renewing by Mail

If you are renewing by mail :

Send us a check (personal, certified, cashier's, traveler's) or money order payable to "U.S. Department of State"
Do not cancel your check or money order after you have applied as you may have to pay additional fees.
When renewing by mail from Canada, you must pay by check or money order payable in U.S. dollars through a U.S. bank.

Applying or Renewing at a Passport Agency

Go to our Passport Agency and Center page for steps on how to apply at one of our 26 locations across the country.

Fees can be paid using:

Major credit cards
Debit/Check card (not ATM cards)
Digital wallet payment such as Apple, Google, or Samsung Pay
Cash ( Exact amount only - no change provided )
Bank Draft or Money Order

Applying from Outside the United States

Check the U.S. embassy or consulate website to learn more about ways to pay for passport services if you are applying outside the United States.

Requesting a Refund for Expedited Service

Service Commitment

If you paid the $60 fee for expedited service when you applied and you did not receive expedited service, you may be eligible to request a refund of this fee. We cannot refund any other passport fees or your travel expenses if you miss your trip.

Non-Refundable Fees

We cannot refund the passport application fee and the execution fee. By law, we collect both fees and keep them even if a passport is not issued.

Learn more about refunds on our Refund of Expedited Passport Fee page.

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IMAGES

Passport Renewal: How to Do It Quickly and Easily
Simple and easy ways to renew your passport
Passport Renewal
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US Passport Renewal Process
Passport Renewal: Everything American Travelers Need to Know

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Step by Step Guide to Renewing Your US Passport
How To Renew US Passport 2024 🇺🇸♻️
How to Expedite a Passport Renewal
How to Renew Your U.S. Passport
How to Renew a Passport

COMMENTS

U.S. passports
Lost or stolen passports. If your passport is lost or stolen you must report it to the State Department right away. How you replace it depends on if you are inside or outside the U.S. Find out how to apply for or renew a passport for an adult or a minor under 18. Know what to do if a passport is lost or stolen.
How to Get my U.S. Passport Fast
Choose this service if you are traveling in less than 2-3 weeks. If you have not applied, make an appointment online. Your appointment at a passport agency or center must within 14 calendar days of your international travel date. If you have already applied, call us at 1-877-487-2778 . We cannot guarantee an appointment will be available.
Renew my Passport by Mail
Follow these steps to renew your passport and track your status: Confirm you meet the requirements. Fill out your form online and print it. Submit your most recent passport. Submit other documents (if you are changing your name) Provide a photo. Calculate fees. Submit application. Enroll in email updates.
U.S. Passports
Routine: 6-8 weeks* Expedited: 2-3 weeks and an extra $60* *Consider the total time it will take to get a passport when you are booking travel. Processing times only include the time your application is at a passport agency or center.. It may take up to 2 weeks for applications to arrive at a passport agency or center. It may take up to 2 weeks for you to receive a completed passport after we ...
Passport Application & Passport Renewal
Passports. Thousands of Post Offices ™ accept first-time passport applications for the U.S. Department of State. Most of those locations can also take your passport photo. Renewing Passports: If you answer 'Yes' to all 5 eligibility questions in the "Renew a Passport by Mail" section, mail your renewal form directly to the State Department.If you don't meet all the renewal requirements, you ...
The Best Way to Renew a Passport in 2024
In late 2022, the U.S. Department of State began a pilot program in which volunteers could apply to renew their passport online. More than 500,000 passport holders participated in the trial before ...
How to Renew a Passport
Payment via personal check or money order to the U.S. Department of State of $130 for a passport book, $30 for a passport card or $160 for both. Expedited service costs an additional $60. Mail ...
How to get and renew a US passport
Mail all your documents to the appropriate address listed below, depending on your home state and processing time request. For Routine Service (If you live in California, Florida, Illinois, Minnesota, New York, or Texas): National Passport Processing Center. Post Office Box 640155. Irving, TX 75064-0155.
Don't Wait
If your passport will expire within the next year, it's time to renew it. If you don't have a passport, it's a great time to apply for one. Apply Early. Here's what you need to know about applying for or renewing your passport: Processing can take 8-11 weeks for routine service. Please allow plenty of time ahead of your trip to get your ...
Learn from my experience: How to avoid a 7-week passport renewal saga
Four days later, on July 20, my apartment notified me of a USPS delivery at the front desk and I was pleasantly surprised to see a priority envelope from the U.S. Government containing my passport. In total, it took me 48 days, nearly seven weeks, door-to-door, to renew my passport.
Forget the lines: You may be able to renew your passport online
There are a few requirements to meet if you're hoping to try out the online renewal process, including these key ones: Your most recent passport is/was valid for 10 years. That passport was issued ...
Renew my Passport Online
Renew Online - Limited Release. The Limited Release is Currently Paused. On March 8, 2023, we paused our limited release of the online renewal service, so that we can introduce improvements based on customer feedback. During our limited release, over 500,000 customers volunteered to submit their applications online and test our system.
International Travel Recommendations
Office of the Spokesperson. April 26, 2022. U.S. citizens considering international travel should plan ahead and be informed about travel requirements before making decisions or firm travel plans. We urge U.S. citizens considering international travel to check their passport expiration date early and if renewal is needed, to submit applications ...
5 things I learned when renewing my passport for the 1st time
If you're even more concerned about your timing, I also suggest tacking on the two-day shipping. This will cost you roughly another $20, but again, I was pressed for time. On top of the base fare for renewal ($130), I paid an additional $80, which brought my total to $210 for my renewal.
How to Get an Emergency Passport Renewal in 72-Hours or Less
The process remains the same as getting an emergency passport renewal for urgent travel, with the exception being how you make the appointment. On Mondays through Fridays from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. (ET), call 1-877-487-2778. If you have a life-or-death emergency after 8:00 p.m. (ET) on Mondays through Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays, and federal ...
How to Skip the Wait and Renew Your Passport Right Away
You must have an appointment before even thinking about heading to the passport office, and the only way to make an appointment is by calling 1-877-487-2778. You can call to schedule the ...
How to Get a Passport: Answers to Common Questions
Emergency: Choose this service if you have a life-or-death emergency that requires travel within three business days. Call 877-487-2778 or 202-647-4000, depending on the day and time, to make an appointment at a passport agency or center and provide proof of the qualifying emergency and proof of travel. Another option is to use a private ...
Passport Forms
Form Finder -- Passport Forms. If you are applying for a U.S. passport, use the Passport Form Filler to fill out our primary forms (DS-11, DS-82, DS-5504, and DS-64) online and print them. The Form Filler will save you time and reduce the chance of errors on your form.
In need of a US passport? Here's what to know about applying in central
The first is the State Department's passport fee. A passport card, which is not accepted for air travel, is $30. A first-time passport book is $130, while both the book and the card are $160 ...
3 Ways to Renew Your Passport in a Hurry
Time left before travel: Eight weeks or more Fees: Passport book, $130; passport card (not good for international air travel), $30. Postage not included. Optional one- to two-day delivery service ...
U.S. Passports
Processing Times. Routine: 6-8 weeks*. Expedited: 2-3 weeks and an extra $60*. *Mailing times are not included in processing times. Processing times only include the time your application is at one of our passport agencies or centers. The total time to get your passport includes both processing and mailing times.
Make an Appointment at a Passport Agency or Center
Our passport agencies and centers: Process all applications we receive from acceptance facilities and by mail, and. Serve customers by appointment only who have urgent travel to a foreign country in the next 14 calendar days, or need a foreign visa in the next 28 calendar days. The U.S. Department of State runs each passport agency and center.
Renew or replace your adult passport: Renew
Renew using a paper application form. You can get a paper application form by either: going to a Post Office that has a Check and Send service. calling the Passport Adviceline. It costs £93. You ...
Passport renewal: How many months do I need left to travel
Many countries across the world require you to have a few months left on your passport at the time of travel - here are the main holiday destinations to watch out for Travel Desk Friday 29 March ...
Passport Fees
Passport Fees. Find your passport fee in one of three ways: Use the fee calculator. Download the fee chart PDF, or. Expand the boxes on this page. Our fees on this page are for customers applying in the United States and renewing by mail from Canada. If you need to apply for or renew your U.S. passport in another country, visit the webpage of ...

U.S. passports

Apply for a new adult passport

Renew an adult passport

Get a passport for a minor under 18

Lost or stolen passports

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First-Time Passports

Renewing Passports

Passports for Minors

Apply for a First-Time Passport

Step 1: Gather Documents Early

Step 2: Prepare Your Application Package

Step 3: Schedule an Appointment

Step 4: Pay Passport Acceptance & Processing Fees

Application Acceptance Fees – Postal Service

Application Processing Fees – Department of State

Application Status Updates

Renew a Passport by Mail

Step 1: Check Your Eligibility to Renew by Mail

Step 3: Mail Your Renewal Application

Step 4: Follow Your Application Progress

Expedited Passport Delivery

Life-or-Death Emergency

Urgent Travel in Less than 10 Weeks

Renew Your Passport Fast

Lost or Stolen Passports

Protect Your Trip »

Key Takeaways

How to renew your passport by mail

Tips on Trips and Expert Picks

How to renew your passport in person

Frequently Asked Questions

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How to Renew Your Passport

How long does it take to renew your passport?

It may not be valid for some travel — even if its still valid

Expedited processing fees will eat into your vacation budget

You could use a passport to fly domestically too (unless you have Real ID)

Renew by mail

Renew passport in person

How to renew your passport online

How to maximize your rewards

How to apply for and renew a US passport

Get Ready: Applying for your first U.S. passport

Stay Ready: Renewing your U.S. passport

Forget the lines: You may be able to renew your passport online

What can I renew?

How do I qualify for online renewal?

How do I participate in the program?

Is online renewal faster?

Will my passport still be valid if I apply?

Should I try the program if I'm traveling soon?

5 things I learned when renewing my passport for the 1st time

Allow for lots of breathing room

When in doubt, expedite. Always.

Reach out to your local representative

Maybe opt for mail-in renewal

Expect delays

Bottom line

How to Get an Emergency Passport Renewal in 72-Hours or Less

Be Sure You Qualify for Emergency Passport Renewal

What Qualifies as a Life or Death Emergency for Urgent Passport Service?

Emergency Passport Renewal at a Regional Agency

Emergency Renewals through an Expedited Passport Courier Service

Emergency Passport Service While Traveling Abroad

Emergency Passports for Minors

Top 5 Questions About Expedited Passport Couriers

Get a Passport