Can I expedite if I need my passport in less than 2 weeks?

Yes, but you'll need an appointment at a regional passport agency or authorized passport office. This requires proof of international travel within 14 days and costs additional fees. Call 1-877-487-2778 to schedule.

What if my current passport is damaged?

Damaged passports don't qualify for renewal. You'll need to apply for a new passport using Form DS-11, appear in person, and provide additional documentation. This takes longer and costs more.

Can I use my old passport while the new one is being processed?

No, your old passport is canceled when you apply for renewal. Don't travel internationally while your renewal is being processed unless you have emergency travel documents.

Is online renewal faster than mailing?

Online renewal (when available) is slightly more convenient but has the same 2-3 week expedited processing time. The advantage is avoiding mail delays and having better tracking.

How to expedite a U.S. passport renewal

You can expedite your U.S. passport renewal by paying an additional $60 fee and selecting expedited service when applying online, by mail, or in person. This reduces processing time from 6-8 weeks to 2-3 weeks for routine renewals.

Check if you qualify for renewal. Your current passport must be undamaged, issued when you were 16 or older, issued within the last 15 years, and issued in your current name (or you can document name change). If any of these don't apply, you need a new passport, not a renewal.
Gather required documents. You need your most recent U.S. passport, Form DS-82 (filled out but not signed), one passport photo taken within 6 months, and payment for fees. Print the form from the State Department website.
Get a proper passport photo. Take a 2x2 inch color photo with white background within the last 6 months. CVS, Walgreens, and post offices offer this service for $10-15. Avoid home photos - they're frequently rejected.
Choose your expedite method. Online renewal (available for eligible applicants): $130 + $60 expedite fee. Mail renewal: $130 + $60 expedite fee plus overnight shipping both ways. In-person at acceptance facility: same fees but you can ask questions.
Submit your application. For mail applications, use overnight delivery to the address specified for expedited service (different from regular renewals). Include a prepaid overnight envelope for return shipping. Sign Form DS-82 only when instructed.
Track your application. Use the online tracking system at travel.state.gov with your last name, date of birth, and last 4 digits of SSN. Status updates every few days. Your old passport will be returned with the new one.

Can I expedite if I need my passport in less than 2 weeks?: Yes, but you'll need an appointment at a regional passport agency or authorized passport office. This requires proof of international travel within 14 days and costs additional fees. Call 1-877-487-2778 to schedule.
What if my current passport is damaged?: Damaged passports don't qualify for renewal. You'll need to apply for a new passport using Form DS-11, appear in person, and provide additional documentation. This takes longer and costs more.
Can I use my old passport while the new one is being processed?: No, your old passport is canceled when you apply for renewal. Don't travel internationally while your renewal is being processed unless you have emergency travel documents.
Is online renewal faster than mailing?: Online renewal (when available) is slightly more convenient but has the same 2-3 week expedited processing time. The advantage is avoiding mail delays and having better tracking.