30 Common Passport Renewal Questions with Answers

Renewing your U.S. passport doesn't have to be complicated. Whether you're planning an upcoming trip or simply staying prepared, the FAQ below covers everything you need to know.

From eligibility requirements and application steps to fees and processing times, we've organized the information to make the process as simple and straightforward as possible. Read on to get answers to the most common questions about renewing your U.S. passport.

Eligibility and Requirements

1. Am I eligible to renew my passport?
To renew, you must have your last passport, which should be undamaged, issued when you were 16 or older, and issued in your current name or with proof of a legal name change. It should also be less than 15 years old.

2. Can you renew an expired passport?
Yes, you can renew an expired passport if it was issued within the last 15 years. If it's older than that, you must apply in person.

3. Can I renew my passport if it's damaged?
No, a damaged passport must be replaced by applying in person. Use Form DS-11 and explain the damage to complete the application.

4. How early can you renew a passport?
You can renew your passport at any time. However, many countries require at least six months of passport validity for entry, so it's recommended to renew it six to nine months before expiration if you plan to travel.

5. Can I renew my passport if I owe child support?
If you owe $2,500 or more in child support, you cannot get a new passport. Contact the child support agency in your state to arrange payments before applying.

6. Can I renew my passport if my name has changed?
Yes, you can renew your passport and have it issued in your new name. Submit Form DS-82 with a recent passport photo and a document that proves the legal name change.

7. Do I need my birth certificate to renew my passport?
No, a birth certificate is not required for a standard passport renewal. However, it may be necessary if your original passport is not available and additional identification is requested.

Click for reliable expedited passport courier service.

How and Where to Apply

8. How do I renew my passport?
You can renew by mail or, if eligible, apply online. Complete Form DS-82, include your most recent passport, a recent passport photo, and the fee. For online renewals, you must meet specific age and issue date requirements.

9. Can I renew my passport from outside the U.S.?
Yes, U.S. citizens living abroad can renew their passports through the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate. Check the local embassy's website for instructions and requirements.

10. Can you renew a passport online?
Yes, some U.S. passport holders can renew online if they meet specific eligibility criteria. This includes age, issue date, and no need for name or personal information changes.

11. Where can you apply for a passport renewal?
You can renew your U.S. passport by mail or, if eligible, online. If you don't meet the renewal requirements (e.g., your passport is too old or damaged), you must apply in person at an authorized passport acceptance facility or U.S. passport agency.

12. Can I go to my local post office to renew my passport?
To renew a passport, you don't need to visit a post office. You may go there to mail your application and supporting documents but it is not required to submit your renewal application at one of these locations.

13. Where can I get a DS-82 passport renewal form?
You can download Form DS-82 from our website or pick up a physical copy at passport acceptance facilities, like post offices or county clerk's offices. You can also complete the form online.

Form and Documentation

14. What do you need to renew a passport?
You need your most recent passport, completed Form DS-82, a recent passport photo, and the renewal fee. For a name change, include the original or a certified copy of the name change document.

15. How to fill out a passport renewal form?
To fill out Form DS-82, provide your personal information as requested, including name, birthdate, passport details, and Social Security number. Sign and date the form, attach a recent photo, and include the payment and required documents. If you print the form and complete it offline, you must use black ink and write legibly.

16. How many photos for passport renewal?
Only one photo is needed for passport renewal. Ensure the photo meets the U.S. passport photo requirements, including size, background, and no eyewear.

17. What envelope to mail passport renewal?
Use a strong, secure envelope, such as a Priority Mail envelope from USPS, to mail your application. Avoid envelopes that could easily tear, and consider adding tracking for added security.

Fees and Payment

18. How much does it cost for a passport renewal?
The fee for a passport book renewal is $130. Expedited processing adds $60. There is an additional fee for fast delivery of your new passport of $21.36 . Payments for mail renewals are accepted via check or money order, and online renewals by credit or debit card.

19. How to pay for passport renewal?
You can pay by check or money order for renewals by mail. If renewing online, payment options include credit or debit card. Make sure payments are made out to "U.S. Department of State."

Mailing and Processing

20. Where to mail passport renewal application?
Mail your passport renewal application to the address specified on Form DS-82. There is one address for routine service and a different address for expedited service. Ensure the envelope is addressed to the National Passport Processing Center, and follow the mailing instructions carefully to avoid delays.

21. How long does it take to renew a passport?
Routine processing takes about 4 to 6 weeks, while expedited processing takes about 2 to 3 weeks. You can also apply in person at a passport agency if you need it within two weeks.

22. What is the fastest way to renew a passport?
Request expedited service by mail, which typically reduces processing to 2 to 3 weeks. For the fastest renewal, schedule an appointment at a passport agency for in-person service, available for urgent travel within 14 days. Applications are usually processed the same day. Applicants who are unable to personally apply at a regional agency can authorize a registered courier to apply on their behalf.

After Applying

23. How can I check the status of my passport renewal?
You can check your passport application status online through the Department of State's website. Wait at least two week before calling unless you need to travel internationally during that time. Customer support will assist you in completing Form DS-86 which is a declaration that your passport did not arrive.

24. What should I do if my passport doesn't arrive by the expected date?
If your passport hasn't arrived within the expected processing time, you can check the status online or call the National Passport Information Center. If you applied for routine service, you may need to request expedited processing. If this will not be sufficient to get your passport on time, you may need to visit the nearest regional agency.

25. Does the passport number change when you renew it?
Yes, each renewed passport is assigned a new number. This is a standard part of the renewal process.

26. Will I get my old passport back after renewal?
Yes, you'll receive your old passport with your new one. Old passports with valid visas can be used along with the new passport for travel. Your old passport may arrive separately from your new one.

27. What to do with the old passport after renewal?
You can keep your old passport as a personal record. If it contains a valid visa, you may use it alongside your new passport. Expired passports should be stored safely.

Other Questions

28. Do I need to update my passport if my address changes?
No, an address change does not require updating your passport. However, if your address changes during application processing, update it with the passport agency to ensure that your travel document is delivered to you.

29. Can I renew my passport if I don't know my Social Security number?
If you have a Social Security number, you must provide it on your renewal application. If you don't have one, submit a signed statement explaining that you have never been issued a Social Security number.

30. How to renew a passport for a minor?
Children under 16 cannot renew passports by mail. A new application must be submitted in person with both parents (or legal guardians) present. When only one parent can be present, that parent needs to submit either authorization from the other parent or evidence of sole legal custody.

Top 5 Questions About Expedited Passport Couriers