How Do You Renew a Passport?
Renewing your U.S. passport may not be the most thrilling task on your to-do list, but it’s essential if you want to travel this summer, especially internationally. However, understanding the renewal process is a must to save you both time and stress before your vacation. Fortunately, the U.S. Department of State offers a few ways to renew. Choosing the right method depends on your timing, eligibility and location.
This guide will walk you through your main passport renewal methods, along with step-by-step instructions and expert tips for expediting the process. No matter where you’re going or when your departure date is, here’s everything you need to know to get your new passport in hand as quickly and smoothly as possible.
Check if You're Eligible for Renewal
First thing’s first: you need to determine if you're eligible to renew your passport instead of applying for a new one from scratch. Passport renewal eligibility is as follows:
- Your current passport is undamaged and can be submitted with your application.
- It was issued when you were age 16 or older.
- It was issued within the last 15 years.
- It’s in your current name (or you can legally document your name change using a specific form).
If your passport doesn’t meet these conditions, you’ll need to apply for a new passport in person using Form DS-11. Otherwise, you’re set to renew, and there are multiple routes you can take.
Option 1: Renew Your Passport by Mail
For most eligible applicants, the easiest and most common way to renew a U.S. passport is by mail. Here’s how you can get it done:
- Fill out form DS-82. This is the official passport renewal form. You can fill it out online and print it or complete it by hand using black ink specifically.
- Gather the required documents. To ensure your renewal goes smoothly, you’ll need to submit your most recent passport, a new passport photo and your payment.
- Include your payment. As of 2025, the standard renewal fee for a passport book is $130. Add $60 if you need expedited service and be sure your check or money order is made out to the U.S. Department of State.
- Mail your application. Use a trackable service to send your application to the address listed on the form, which depends on whether you're requesting routine or expedited service.
Option 2: Renew Online
The U.S. State Department launched an online passport renewal pilot program, but it is not available everywhere or to all applicants. Only a select number of slots are open monthly. However, you may qualify to renew online if:
- You're over 25.
- You’re renewing a passport issued between 9–15 years ago.
- You are not traveling internationally in the next six weeks.
If eligible, you can:
- Create a MyTravelGov account. Start by creating an account on MyTravelGov.
- Follow the instructions. When your opportunity for online renewal opens, you’ll get a notification allowing you to upload a photo, fill out your application and pay electronically.
- Submit everything and wait. After submission, processing times are the same as mail-in renewals, despite it being done online.
Option 3: Renew in Person
If you’re not eligible to renew by mail, you’ll need to renew your passport in person. This is also necessary if you need a passport urgently.
To apply in person, follow these steps:
- Fill out form DS-11. Unlike the DS-82 used for mail renewals, you’ll complete a DS-11 for in-person applications, just like applicants getting a passport for the first time.
- Make an appointment. Use the State Department’s online scheduler to make an appointment at a passport acceptance facility.
- Bring the required documents. Make sure you have proof of U.S. citizenship, a government-issued ID, a passport photo and all your applicable fees.
- Submit your application. Depending on how soon you need the passport, you may be referred to a regional passport agency for same-day service.
Tips for Getting Your Passport Fast
It’s always recommended to allow for ample processing time, especially if you already have a trip booked. However, here are some of the ways you can get your passport quickly:
- Pay for expedited service. Add $60 to your fees and write “EXPEDITE" clearly on the outside of your envelope.
- Use Priority Mail Express. Sending and receiving your application through express services can save you time.
- Schedule in-person at a passport agency. If you're traveling in less than 14 days, call the National Passport Information Center for emergency appointments.
- Be aware of processing times. As of July 2025, routine passport processing takes 6–8 weeks, while expedited service takes 2–3 weeks.
Renew Your Passport Today
Renewing your passport doesn’t have to be a daunting task, especially if you plan ahead and know which renewal method suits you best. Regardless of where you’re at in the process, staying organized is key.
If you need additional information, passport forms or eligibility criteria, you can find all the resources you need on the official travel.state.gov website.