How to Get an Expedited Passport Renewal
Expedited passport renewal takes 2-3 weeks and costs $60 extra. Apply in person at a passport agency for same-day service, or mail your application with expedited processing. You'll need your current passport, new photos, and the DS-82 form.
- Check if you qualify for renewal. Your current passport must be undamaged, issued when you were 16+, issued within the last 15 years, and in your current name. If not, you need a new passport application, not a renewal.
- Choose your speed. Expedited by mail: 2-3 weeks, $60 fee. In-person at passport agency: same day, $60 fee plus $35 execution fee. Emergency appointments available for travel within 14 days.
- 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. Don't use selfies or old photos.
- Fill out Form DS-82. Complete the renewal form online at travel.state.gov or print and fill by hand in black ink. Sign and date it. Don't sign until instructed if applying in person.
- Calculate your fees. Passport book: $130. Expedited processing: $60. Optional expedited shipping: $21.36. Pay by check or money order for mail applications, or credit/debit for in-person.
- Mail or visit in person. For mail: Send everything to the address on the form with expedited shipping. For same-day: Schedule appointment at travel.state.gov for regional passport agencies in major cities.
- Track your application. Use the tracking number online or call 1-877-487-2778. Your old passport gets returned with your new one unless it's damaged.
- Can I renew an expired passport with expedited service?
- No. If your passport expired more than 5 years ago, you need a new passport application (DS-11), not a renewal. This takes longer even with expedited service.
- What counts as a passport emergency?
- Travel within 14 days, or needing a visa for travel within 30 days. You'll need proof like flight confirmation. Emergency appointments are limited and book up fast.
- Will expedited processing work if I damaged my passport?
- Significantly damaged passports (water damage, torn pages, missing corners) require new applications, not renewals. Minor wear is usually fine, but call 1-877-487-2778 to check first.