Can I travel while my passport renewal is processing?

No, you cannot travel internationally while your passport is being renewed since you must submit your current passport with the application. Plan accordingly and don't book international travel until you receive your new passport.

What if I need to travel urgently while my renewal is processing?

Contact the National Passport Information Center at 1-877-487-2778 to potentially expedite your application or visit a regional passport agency for emergency service. You'll need proof of immediate travel plans.

Do I need to update other documents when I change my name on my passport?

Yes, update your driver's license, Social Security card, airline reservations, and any existing visas to match your new passport name. Inconsistent names can cause travel delays.

Can I renew my passport if I got married recently but haven't legally changed my name yet?

Yes, renew using your current legal name (the name on your existing passport). You can change the name on your passport later by following the same renewal process with your marriage certificate.

How to Handle Passport Renewals When You're Married

Married travelers can renew their passports by mail if they've had a passport before, regardless of name changes. If you changed your name after marriage, include certified marriage certificate with your renewal application. Processing takes 6-8 weeks for routine service.

Determine if you can renew by mail. You can renew by mail if your most recent passport was issued when you were 16 or older, within the last 15 years, and you can submit it with your application. This applies even if you changed your name after marriage.
Gather required documents. Complete Form DS-82, provide a new passport photo, your most recent passport, and the renewal fee ($130 for passport book, $30 for card). If you changed your name, include a certified copy of your marriage certificate.
Handle name change documentation. For name changes due to marriage, submit a certified marriage certificate issued by the city, county, or state. Photocopies are not accepted. The certificate must show your previous name and new married name clearly.
Choose your processing speed. Routine processing takes 6-8 weeks and costs $130. Expedited service takes 2-3 weeks and costs an additional $60. For emergencies, you can visit a passport agency for same-day service with proof of immediate travel.
Submit your application. Mail your complete application to the address specified on Form DS-82. Use a trackable shipping method since you're sending your current passport. Keep copies of all documents before mailing.
Track your application status. 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 canceled old passport separately.

Can I travel while my passport renewal is processing?: No, you cannot travel internationally while your passport is being renewed since you must submit your current passport with the application. Plan accordingly and don't book international travel until you receive your new passport.
What if I need to travel urgently while my renewal is processing?: Contact the National Passport Information Center at 1-877-487-2778 to potentially expedite your application or visit a regional passport agency for emergency service. You'll need proof of immediate travel plans.
Do I need to update other documents when I change my name on my passport?: Yes, update your driver's license, Social Security card, airline reservations, and any existing visas to match your new passport name. Inconsistent names can cause travel delays.
Can I renew my passport if I got married recently but haven't legally changed my name yet?: Yes, renew using your current legal name (the name on your existing passport). You can change the name on your passport later by following the same renewal process with your marriage certificate.