Can I travel while my passport renewal is processing?

No. You cannot travel internationally while your passport is being renewed because you must submit your current passport with the application.

What if I need my passport back urgently after mailing it?

Call the National Passport Information Center immediately at 877-487-2778. They may be able to return your old passport if processing hasn't started, but this isn't guaranteed.

How long is my renewed passport valid?

Adult passport renewals are valid for 10 years from the issue date. Child passports (under 16) are valid for 5 years and cannot be renewed — they require a new application.

Can someone else pick up my passport from a regional agency?

Only with a notarized letter of authorization and their valid ID. The authorized person must bring the letter, your ID copy, and their own government-issued photo ID.

What happens if my passport photo is rejected?

Your entire application gets delayed while they request a new photo. Use a professional passport photo service — drugstore photo booths often produce photos that don't meet specifications.

How to Renew Your Passport Quickly for Upcoming Travel

Expedite your passport renewal by paying the $60 expedite fee plus $18.32 overnight shipping, which gets you a new passport in 2-3 weeks instead of 6-8 weeks. For travel within 14 days, book an urgent appointment at a regional passport agency.

Check if you can renew by mail. You can renew by mail if your current 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.
Gather required documents. Fill out Form DS-82, provide one passport photo (2x2 inches), your most recent passport, and payment. Photo requirements are strict — use a passport photo service or take one following State Department guidelines exactly.
Choose your speed. Regular processing takes 6-8 weeks ($130 fee). Expedited service costs extra $60 and takes 2-3 weeks. Add $18.32 for 1-2 day delivery. Total for fastest mail renewal: $208.32.
Mail to the correct address. Expedited renewals go to Philadelphia (P.O. Box 90155, Philadelphia, PA 19190-0155). Regular renewals go to different addresses based on your state. Use trackable shipping both ways.
For travel within 14 days, visit an agency. Book an appointment at one of 26 regional passport agencies through the National Passport Information Center (877-487-2778). Bring flight confirmation showing travel within 14 days. Same-day service available for life-or-death emergencies.
Track your application. Use the online status tool on travel.state.gov with your last name, date of birth, and last 4 digits of SSN. Applications update every business day.

Can I travel while my passport renewal is processing?: No. You cannot travel internationally while your passport is being renewed because you must submit your current passport with the application.
What if I need my passport back urgently after mailing it?: Call the National Passport Information Center immediately at 877-487-2778. They may be able to return your old passport if processing hasn't started, but this isn't guaranteed.
How long is my renewed passport valid?: Adult passport renewals are valid for 10 years from the issue date. Child passports (under 16) are valid for 5 years and cannot be renewed — they require a new application.
Can someone else pick up my passport from a regional agency?: Only with a notarized letter of authorization and their valid ID. The authorized person must bring the letter, your ID copy, and their own government-issued photo ID.
What happens if my passport photo is rejected?: Your entire application gets delayed while they request a new photo. Use a professional passport photo service — drugstore photo booths often produce photos that don't meet specifications.