When to Renew Your Passport
You must renew your passport at least six months before the expiration date printed on the data page. Many countries will deny you entry or boarding if your passport has less than six months of validity remaining, regardless of the expiration date.
- Check your expiration date. Look at the 'Date of Expiration' on your passport. If it is within 9 months of today's date, you are in the 'danger zone' for international travel and should begin the renewal process immediately.
- Verify your destination's entry requirements. Search the State Department’s website or the IATA Travel Centre to see if your destination country requires 3 or 6 months of 'passport validity' beyond your planned departure date.
- Use Form DS-82 for renewals. If your previous passport is undamaged, was issued within the last 15 years, and you were at least 16 when it was issued, you can use Form DS-82 to renew by mail or online.
- Calculate processing times. Standard processing currently takes 6 to 8 weeks. If you are traveling sooner than that, you must pay an additional $60 for expedited service or make an appointment at a regional passport agency.
- Can I travel if my passport expires in 2 months?
- Technically, you might be able to board a plane for domestic travel, but almost no international country will accept a passport with less than 6 months of validity.
- Does my passport automatically renew?
- No. You must apply for a renewal every 10 years (for adults) through the official government agency of your country of citizenship.
- What if I have an urgent trip?
- You can book an appointment at a regional passport agency if you have international travel within 14 calendar days, provided you have proof of travel.