Can I travel while my passport is being renewed?

No, you must send your current passport with your renewal application. Plan accordingly and don't book travel until you have your new passport in hand.

What if I need my passport in less than 2 weeks?

Make an appointment at a regional passport agency. You need proof of international travel within 14 days (or 28 days if you need a visa). Call 1-877-487-2778 or book online. Some agencies offer same-day service.

My passport expires in 8 months. Should I renew it now?

Many countries require 6+ months validity for entry. If you're traveling internationally, renew now. Even if not traveling soon, renewing early avoids last-minute stress and higher expedite fees.

What happens if my renewal application is rejected?

Common reasons include unclear photos, incorrect fees, or missing signatures. They'll mail everything back with instructions. Fix the issues and resubmit. This adds 2-4 weeks to your timeline, so double-check everything before mailing.

How to Renew Your US Passport in 2-3 Weeks

You can renew your US passport in 2-3 weeks using expedited service for $60 extra, or get it in 1-2 business days at a passport agency for urgent travel. Mail renewal takes 6-8 weeks, so plan accordingly.

Check if you qualify for renewal by mail. You can renew by mail if your passport was issued when you were 16+, within the last 15 years, is undamaged, and you have the same name (or can document the change). If not, you need to apply in person.
Fill out Form DS-82. Complete the renewal form online at travel.state.gov. Print it but don't sign until you're ready to mail it. Use black ink only.
Get a new passport photo. Take a new 2x2 inch color photo within the last 6 months. CVS, Walgreens, and post offices do these for $15-20. Must be white background, facing forward, neutral expression.
Calculate your fees and timeline. Standard renewal: $130 + $18.32 shipping = $148.32 (6-8 weeks). Expedited: $130 + $60 expedite fee + $21.36 overnight shipping = $211.36 (2-3 weeks). Life-or-death emergency: make appointment at passport agency.
Mail your application. Include Form DS-82, your old passport, new photo, payment (check or money order), and expedited shipping if chosen. Mail to the address on the form using a trackable method.
Track your application. Check status online at travel.state.gov with your last name, date of birth, and last 4 digits of SSN. You'll get your new passport and old passport back separately.

Can I travel while my passport is being renewed?: No, you must send your current passport with your renewal application. Plan accordingly and don't book travel until you have your new passport in hand.
What if I need my passport in less than 2 weeks?: Make an appointment at a regional passport agency. You need proof of international travel within 14 days (or 28 days if you need a visa). Call 1-877-487-2778 or book online. Some agencies offer same-day service.
My passport expires in 8 months. Should I renew it now?: Many countries require 6+ months validity for entry. If you're traveling internationally, renew now. Even if not traveling soon, renewing early avoids last-minute stress and higher expedite fees.
What happens if my renewal application is rejected?: Common reasons include unclear photos, incorrect fees, or missing signatures. They'll mail everything back with instructions. Fix the issues and resubmit. This adds 2-4 weeks to your timeline, so double-check everything before mailing.