For Americans over age 16, your United States passport is valid for 10 years from the date of issue. For those under 16, it is valid for 5 years. Prepare to renew it well ahead of its expiration date. Processing times can sometimes be lengthy, and waiting until it expires can add work and potential hangups.
Passports are not just used for international travel. As of May 7, 2025, if you plan to take a commercial flight–even inside the US– or enter a secure federal building, you need a REAL ID or an acceptable alternative, like a passport.
How Do I Renew My Passport?
There are two ways to renew your passport: by mail or online. Both essentially require the same documentation, but the process varies slightly.
Online
The easiest method to renew your passport is to simply create an account and complete the online application. You will need to upload a digital passport photo (learnhow to take your own passport photo before proceeding to this step). The application fee can be paid by credit or debit card.
Pro tip: If you plan to travel within six weeks of renewal, expedited service is not available for online passport renewals; you must renew via mail.
Renewal by mail is similar to renewing online, but instead of submitting a digital form, you print it at home and mail it. You can fill it out by hand or electronically before printing.
You'll need to submit your old passport, along with a printed passport photo. If you have a new name, you will need to submit official documentation showing the name change along with your application. The renewal application fees can be paid by check or money order.
To be eligible to renew your passport either way, your previous passport must:
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Have been issued within the last 15 years.
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Have been issued when you were age 16 or older.
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Not have been damaged, lost, or stolen.
If you don't meet these requirements, you must make an appointment and re-apply in person.
Important note: In September 2024, the U.S. State Department launched the online passport renewal option, giving people a safer alternative to mailing in their documents. But if you're eligible to renew by mail or online, you can no longer choose to renew in person.
Required Documents for Renewing Your Passport
Passport renewal requires fewer documents than applying for your first passport. The required documents include:
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Your most recent passport
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A completed Form DS-82 (this is the application, printed if done by mail, electronic if renewing online)
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Name change documents (marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order)
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Passport photo
How Long Does Passport Renewal Take?
Exactly how long it takes to renew a passport depends entirely on how many passports are being processed at the time. During normal times, routine service will take 4 to 6 weeks, or you can expedite your renewal for an additional fee.
Here's a breakdown of how much it costs to renew a passport:
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Standard Renewal Fee: $130
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Optional Expedited Service Fee: $60
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Optional 1-2 Day Delivery Fee: $21.36
Your total passport fees can be as low as $130 or as high as $211.36. It depends on how quickly you need your passport.
If you are planning to travel internationally, be sure to check out our tips for making the most of the journey and your time abroad. When your crisp new passport book arrives, you will be well prepared and in the know.
