Can I travel while my passport is being renewed?

No, you must submit your current passport with the renewal application. You cannot travel internationally until you receive your new passport.

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

Schedule an appointment at a regional passport agency. You must show proof of urgent travel (flight itinerary) within 14 days. Appointments book up quickly, so call early morning.

Can I renew an expired passport by mail?

Yes, if it expired within the last 5 years and meets other renewal requirements. If expired more than 5 years, you must apply in person with Form DS-11.

What if my name changed since my last passport?

You cannot renew by mail if your name changed. Apply in person with Form DS-11, bring certified marriage certificate or court order showing the name change.

How do I get my application expedited faster than 2-3 weeks?

Use a private expediting service ($200-400 extra) or go to a passport agency for same-day service with proof of travel within 14 days.

How to renew your US passport quickly

Renew your US passport in 2-3 weeks by using the expedited service for $60 extra, or get it in 1-2 business days at a passport agency for urgent travel. Standard renewal takes 6-8 weeks and costs $130 for adults.

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 in your current name. If not, you need to apply in person.
Fill out Form DS-82. Complete the renewal application online at travel.state.gov or print and fill by hand. Do not sign it until instructed by postal worker if mailing, or sign it if applying in person.
Get a new passport photo. Take a 2x2 inch color photo within the last 6 months. CVS, Walgreens, and UPS stores do this for $15-20. Make sure it meets State Department requirements - white background, facing forward, no glasses.
Calculate your fees and timeline. Standard service: $130 + $15 processing fee, 6-8 weeks. Expedited service: add $60, 2-3 weeks. Urgent travel (14 days or less): appointment at passport agency, same fees as expedited.
Submit your application. Mail to the address on Form DS-82 with your old passport, new photo, and payment. For expedited service, write 'EXPEDITE' on the envelope and include overnight return shipping ($18-25). For urgent travel, schedule an appointment at a passport agency.
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 (with corners cut) back separately.

Can I travel while my passport is being renewed?: No, you must submit your current passport with the renewal application. You cannot travel internationally until you receive your new passport.
What if I need my passport in less than 2 weeks?: Schedule an appointment at a regional passport agency. You must show proof of urgent travel (flight itinerary) within 14 days. Appointments book up quickly, so call early morning.
Can I renew an expired passport by mail?: Yes, if it expired within the last 5 years and meets other renewal requirements. If expired more than 5 years, you must apply in person with Form DS-11.
What if my name changed since my last passport?: You cannot renew by mail if your name changed. Apply in person with Form DS-11, bring certified marriage certificate or court order showing the name change.
How do I get my application expedited faster than 2-3 weeks?: Use a private expediting service ($200-400 extra) or go to a passport agency for same-day service with proof of travel within 14 days.