Can I travel while my passport renewal is processing?

No, you cannot travel internationally while your passport is being renewed. The State Department keeps your old passport during processing. Plan accordingly and don't submit renewal applications if you have upcoming travel.

What if I need my passport faster than 2-3 weeks?

For urgent travel within 14 days, you can make an appointment at a regional passport agency. You'll need proof of travel (like airline tickets) and pay additional fees. Same-day service is possible but requires an emergency appointment.

My passport is damaged. Can I still renew by mail?

No, damaged passports require in-person applications. This includes water damage, torn pages, missing pages, or significant wear. You'll need to use Form DS-11 instead of DS-82 and visit an acceptance facility.

Do I need to update my passport for a name change after marriage?

You're not required to update your passport for a name change, but it must match your airline ticket. If you want to travel under your new name, renew your passport with certified copies of your marriage certificate or court order.

How to Renew Your Passport

Renew your passport by mail if it's undamaged and issued within 15 years, or apply in person at a passport office if it doesn't meet renewal criteria. Processing takes 6-8 weeks for routine service or 2-3 weeks for expedited service.

Check if you're eligible 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 in your current name (or you can document a name change). If any of these don't apply, you need to apply in person.
Gather required documents. You'll need your most recent passport, Form DS-82 (filled out but not signed), one passport photo taken within 6 months, and the renewal fee. If your name changed, include certified copies of legal documents showing the change.
Get a proper passport photo. Take a 2x2 inch photo with a white background, facing forward with a neutral expression. CVS, Walgreens, and Costco offer passport photo services for $10-15. Avoid DIY photos unless you're confident about the requirements.
Calculate your fees and choose processing speed. Standard renewal costs $130 ($100 application fee + $30 acceptance fee). Expedited service adds $60 and reduces processing from 6-8 weeks to 2-3 weeks. Expedited shipping adds another $21.36 for faster delivery.
Submit your application. For mail renewal: mail everything to the address on Form DS-82 with a check or money order. For in-person applications: visit a passport acceptance facility or regional office. Don't sign Form DS-82 until you're with the acceptance agent.
Track your application. Check status online at travel.state.gov using your last name, date of birth, and last four digits of your Social Security number. You'll receive your new passport and old passport back separately.

Can I travel while my passport renewal is processing?: No, you cannot travel internationally while your passport is being renewed. The State Department keeps your old passport during processing. Plan accordingly and don't submit renewal applications if you have upcoming travel.
What if I need my passport faster than 2-3 weeks?: For urgent travel within 14 days, you can make an appointment at a regional passport agency. You'll need proof of travel (like airline tickets) and pay additional fees. Same-day service is possible but requires an emergency appointment.
My passport is damaged. Can I still renew by mail?: No, damaged passports require in-person applications. This includes water damage, torn pages, missing pages, or significant wear. You'll need to use Form DS-11 instead of DS-82 and visit an acceptance facility.
Do I need to update my passport for a name change after marriage?: You're not required to update your passport for a name change, but it must match your airline ticket. If you want to travel under your new name, renew your passport with certified copies of your marriage certificate or court order.