How to Renew a US Passport in 2026 (Step-by-Step Guide)
Routine renewal takes 6–8 weeks. Expedited takes 2–3 weeks. Here is every step, every document, and every fee — so nothing delays your application.
6–8 wks
Routine processing
2–3 wks
Expedited processing
$130
Routine fee
$0.99
Photo via AI
Table of Contents
Can you renew your passport by mail?
Documents you need for renewal
2026 passport renewal fees
Get a compliant passport photo
How to fill out Form DS-82
Where to submit your renewal application
Processing times in 2026
What to do if you need your passport urgently
Frequently asked questions
1
Can You Renew Your Passport by Mail?
Most US adults can renew their passport by mail using Form DS-82. You qualify if ALL of the following are true:
Your most recent passport was issued when you were 16 or older
Your passport was issued less than 15 years ago
Your passport is undamaged (not water damaged, torn, or heavily worn)
Your name has not changed — or you have a legal document proving the change (marriage certificate, court order)
You currently have the passport in your possession
Cannot renew by mail?
If any condition above is not met, you must apply in person at a passport acceptance facility (post office, library, or clerk of court). Use Form DS-11 instead of DS-82.
2
Documents You Need for Renewal
Before you mail anything, gather every item on this list. A missing document is the most common reason renewals are delayed.
Completed Form DS-82 (filled out in black ink or printed from the State Department website)
Your most recent US passport (it will be returned to you after processing)
One passport photo — 2×2 inches, taken within the last 6 months
Check or money order for the application fee (payable to "US Department of State")
Name change document if applicable (certified copy — originals are returned)
Tip
Do not staple or paper-clip your photo to the form. Write your name and date of birth lightly in pencil on the back of the photo, then attach it with a small piece of tape to the designated box on DS-82.
3
2026 Passport Renewal Fees
These are the official US government fees as of 2026. Expedited service is worth it if you have any travel planned in the next 3 months.
Service
Government fee
Expedited add-on
Total
Passport Book (adult)
$130
+$60
$190 expedited
Passport Card (adult)
$30
+$60
$90 expedited
Book + Card together
$160
+$60
$220 expedited
Passport Photo (AI)
$0.99
—
$0.99
Pay by check or money order made out to "US Department of State." Do not send cash.
4
Get a Compliant Passport Photo
Every renewal requires a new photo. The State Department rejects photos that do not meet their exact specifications — and a rejected photo delays your entire application.
Your photo must be:
2×2 inches (51×51 mm) printed size
Taken within the last 6 months
Plain white or off-white background — no patterns or shadows
Neutral expression, mouth closed
Eyes open and looking directly at the camera
No glasses (not permitted since 2016)
No hats or head coverings (unless for religious reasons)
Fastest option
Express Passport Photo produces a government-compliant 2×2 photo in 30 seconds for $0.99 — with automatic background removal, head size check, and a 100% acceptance guarantee. Download the digital file, then print at CVS or Walgreens for $1–3.
5
How to Fill Out Form DS-82
Download DS-82 from travel.state.gov. Print it single-sided on standard 8.5×11 paper. Fill it out in black ink or complete it online and print.
1
Complete all fields on pages 1 and 2
Include your full legal name exactly as it appears on your current passport. If your name has changed, fill in your new name on the top and your previous name in the name change section.
2
Sign and date on page 2
Your signature must be inside the box. Do not sign before you are ready to mail — the signature must be fresh. Do not use a digital signature.
3
Attach your photo
Tape your 2×2 photo into the photo box on page 1. Do not staple it. Write your name and date of birth lightly in pencil on the back of the photo before attaching.
4
Do not mail your form until your photo is ready
A missing or non-compliant photo is the most common reason DS-82 applications are returned. Have your compliant photo in hand before you seal the envelope.
6
Where to Submit Your Renewal Application
Mail your complete DS-82 package to the National Passport Processing Center. The address varies based on whether you choose routine or expedited service.
1
Routine renewal (6–8 weeks)
National Passport Processing Center, P.O. Box 90155, Philadelphia, PA 19190-0155
2
Expedited renewal (2–3 weeks, +$60)
National Passport Processing Center, P.O. Box 90955, Philadelphia, PA 19190-0955. Write "EXPEDITE" on the outside of the envelope.
Use trackable mail
Send your application via USPS Priority Mail or FedEx with a tracking number. Your original passport is in that envelope — you want to know exactly where it is.
7
Processing Times in 2026
Current processing times from the US State Department as of September 2026. These are subject to change — check travel.state.gov for live updates before you apply.
Routine processing
6–8 weeks from mailing date. Best for travel more than 10 weeks away.
Expedited processing (+$60)
2–3 weeks from mailing date. Best for travel 3–10 weeks away.
Urgent appointment at passport agency
1–5 business days. Only available if traveling within 14 days. Must call 1-877-487-2778 to schedule.
Life-or-death emergency
24–72 hours. For medical emergencies or funerals abroad requiring immediate travel.
8
What to Do If You Need Your Passport Urgently
If you are traveling within 3 weeks and do not have a valid passport, take these steps immediately:
1
Call 1-877-487-2778
This is the National Passport Information Center. They can check appointment availability at your nearest regional passport agency. Lines are open Monday–Friday, 8am–10pm ET.
2
Book your appointment online
Go to travel.state.gov → "Schedule Appointment." Appointments fill up fast — call and book online at the same time if possible.
3
Gather your documents before the appointment
Bring: DS-82 (completed), your current passport, one compliant 2×2 photo, payment for all fees, and proof of travel (flight or hotel booking showing departure within 3 weeks).
4
Get your photo before your appointment
Do not show up without a photo — agencies do not always have photo services on-site. Get your compliant photo from Express Passport Photo ($0.99) and print it before you go.
Important
Passport agencies only serve people with imminent travel. You must bring proof of travel dated within 14 days to qualify for an urgent appointment. Without it, you will be turned away.
9. Frequently Asked Questions
How long does passport renewal take in 2026?
Routine passport renewal takes 6–8 weeks in 2026. Expedited renewal takes 2–3 weeks. If you are traveling within 14 days, you can request an urgent appointment at a passport agency. These times can change — check travel.state.gov for current processing times before applying.
How much does it cost to renew a US passport in 2026?
Routine passport renewal costs $130 for the book. Expedited service adds $60, making it $190. An 8-week passport card renewal costs $30 (routine) or $90 (expedited). These are government fees — any postal or agency service fees are separate.
Can I renew my passport by mail in 2026?
Yes, if your passport is less than 15 years old, was issued after your 16th birthday, is not damaged, and was issued in your current legal name (or you have legal documentation of a name change). If any of these conditions are not met, you must apply in person.
Do I need a new photo to renew my passport?
Yes. Every passport renewal requires a new 2×2 inch photo taken within the last 6 months. The photo must meet all US State Department requirements: white background, neutral expression, no glasses, eyes open. An AI service like Express Passport Photo produces a compliant photo in 30 seconds for $0.99.
How early should I renew my passport?
Renew at least 9 months before your passport expires. Many countries require your passport to be valid for 6 months beyond your travel dates. If your passport expires in the next 9 months, start the renewal process now.
What if I need my passport renewed urgently?
If you are traveling within 3 weeks, call 1-877-487-2778 to request an urgent appointment at a regional passport agency. You must bring proof of travel (flight booking, hotel reservation) dated within 3 weeks. Bring all documents and a compliant photo ready to submit.
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