Can I travel while my passport renewal is being processed?

No, you cannot travel internationally while your passport is being renewed. The State Department keeps your old passport during processing, leaving you without travel documents.

What if I need my passport urgently?

For travel within 2 weeks, schedule an appointment at a Regional Passport Agency. Bring proof of travel (flight confirmation) and pay $60 expedite fee plus $35 appointment fee. Some locations offer same-day service.

Do I need to update my passport if I move?

No, you don't need to renew your passport for an address change. Update your address in the State Department's system online, but the old address on your passport remains valid until expiration.

What happens if my renewal application is rejected?

Common reasons for rejection include damaged photos, incorrect fees, or missing signatures. The State Department will return your application with instructions. Fix the issues and resubmit - processing time starts over.

How to Renew Your Passport

Renew your passport by mail if it's undamaged and issued within 15 years, or apply in person if it doesn't meet mail renewal criteria. Processing takes 6-8 weeks for routine service or 2-3 weeks for expedited service. Start the process at least 3 months before you need to travel.

Check if you qualify for renewal by mail. You can renew by mail if your passport is undamaged, issued when you were 16 or older, issued within the last 15 years, and you still have the same name (or can document name changes with marriage certificate or court order).
Gather required documents. You need Form DS-82 (completed but not signed), your most recent passport, one passport photo taken within 6 months, and payment. If renewing in person, bring Form DS-11 instead and a copy of ID.
Get a new passport photo. Take a 2x2 inch color photo with white background within the last 6 months. CVS, Walgreens, and most post offices offer passport photo services for $12-15. Avoid glasses, hats, and smiling.
Calculate fees and choose processing speed. Standard adult renewal costs $130 ($110 application fee + $20 acceptance fee if applying in person). Add $60 for expedited service. Overnight delivery adds another $19.53 each way.
Submit your application. Mail renewal applications to the address on Form DS-82. For in-person applications, visit a passport acceptance facility (post office, courthouse, library). Sign the form only in front of the accepting agent.
Track your application. Check status online at travel.state.gov using your last name, date of birth, and last 4 digits of Social Security number. You'll receive your new passport and old passport (with holes punched through it) separately.

Can I travel while my passport renewal is being processed?: No, you cannot travel internationally while your passport is being renewed. The State Department keeps your old passport during processing, leaving you without travel documents.
What if I need my passport urgently?: For travel within 2 weeks, schedule an appointment at a Regional Passport Agency. Bring proof of travel (flight confirmation) and pay $60 expedite fee plus $35 appointment fee. Some locations offer same-day service.
Do I need to update my passport if I move?: No, you don't need to renew your passport for an address change. Update your address in the State Department's system online, but the old address on your passport remains valid until expiration.
What happens if my renewal application is rejected?: Common reasons for rejection include damaged photos, incorrect fees, or missing signatures. The State Department will return your application with instructions. Fix the issues and resubmit - processing time starts over.