When your U.S. passport is set to expire, you need to begin the renewal process in a timely manner to avoid any issues with upcoming travel plans. As an adult, renewing your passport follows many of the same steps as obtaining your original passport, but the process is simplified if you still have your most recent passport. Be prepared to fill out the renewal application, pay applicable fees, provide a new passport photo, and submit your expired passport. With some advance preparation, you can ensure a smooth passport renewal process. Renewing early provides extra time for processing and avoids a potential delay in receiving your new passport if any issues arise.
If your U.S. passport has expired or will expire within the next year, you will need to renew it to continue international travel. Passports for all adults over 16 years of age are valid for 10 years. Once expired, your passport is no longer a valid form of identification or for travel purposes outside of the U.S.
How to Renew Your U.S. Passport as an Adult
To renew your U.S. passport as an adult, you will need to submit Form DS-11, which is the passport renewal application. You must renew your passport if it expires within the next year or has already expired.
1. Gather the Necessary Documentation
To renew your passport, you will need to provide proof of U.S. citizenship, such as an original birth or naturalization certificate, as well as a government-issued photo ID, such as a driver’s license. You will also need a 2-inch by 2-inch photo of yourself against a plain white background. The photo must have been taken within the last six months and must resemble your current appearance.
2. Submit Your Application
You can submit your renewal application by mail or in person at an acceptance facility like a post office, courthouse, or library. Submitting by mail is more convenient but will take 4 to 6 weeks to process. Applying in person will take around 4 weeks. To mail in your application, you must use Form DS-11 and include your documents, photo, and fees. The current passport renewal fees are $110.
3. Application Review and Issuance
Once your application has been received, it will be reviewed to verify your citizenship and identity. If approved, your new passport will be mailed to you in about 4 to 6 weeks if applying by mail or in 4 weeks if applying in person. Your new passport will be valid for 10 years.
4. Denial and Appeals
If your application is denied, you will receive a letter explaining the reason for the denial. You may appeal the denial within 60 days of the date on the denial letter. Provide additional evidence to support your appeal, such as court documents or an amended birth certificate. The appeal review process may take up to 3 months.
In summary, renewing your U.S. passport requires submitting the necessary paperwork, documents and fees by mail or in person at an acceptance facility. With the proper application and barring any issues, you can expect to receive your new passport within a month or two to continue your international travel.
Required Documents for Renewing Your Passport
To renew your U.S. passport, you will need to submit certain documentation to verify your citizenship and identity. Make sure you have the following documents ready before starting the passport renewal process:
1. Proof of U.S. Citizenship
You will need to provide evidence of your U.S. citizenship, such as a government-issued birth certificate. If you do not have a birth certificate, alternate documents like an official baptismal record, hospital birth record, or census record may be accepted. These records must have been issued before your fifth birthday and show a U.S. place of birth.
2. Government-Issued Photo ID
A current, valid government-issued photo identification, such as a driver’s license or state ID card is required. The ID must resemble your current appearance and be in the same name as the passport. If you have legally changed your name, you must provide official documentation of the change like a marriage certificate or court order.
3. Passport Photo
You will need to submit a 2-inch by 2-inch photo of your head and shoulders. The photo must have a plain white background, show you facing forward, and be taken within the last six months. It should capture a neutral and relaxed facial expression with your eyes open and mouth closed. No hats or glasses that obscure your facial features are allowed.
4. Your Current U.S. Passport
Your currently valid or recently expired U.S. passport is required to renew your passport. If your name has changed, you must provide evidence of the legal name change. Damaged passports still need to be submitted, even if they are not usable.
Providing complete and accurate documentation will help ensure there are no delays in processing your passport renewal application. Double check that you have included all necessary records and that all names and personal details are correct before mailing your materials. Following the official guidelines carefully will allow you to renew your passport and continue exploring the world.
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FAQs
How early can I renew my passport?
You can renew your passport up to one year before its expiration date. Renewing early ensures you have a valid passport for any international travel plans and avoids potential delays in processing times. The U.S. Department of State recommends renewing at least nine months prior to expiration for routine service and three months for expedited service.
What documents do I need to renew my passport?
To renew your passport, you will need to submit the following documents:
- Your current U.S. passport
- A government-issued photo ID (such as a driver’s license)
- A 2-inch by 2-inch photo of your head and shoulders
- Form DS-11, which is the passport renewal application
- Payment of the required passport renewal fee (currently $110)
You must also provide evidence of U.S. citizenship, such as a government-issued birth or naturalization certificate. The documents you submit must be originals or certified copies.
Can I renew my passport by mail?
Yes, in most cases you can renew your U.S. passport by mail. To be eligible for mail renewal, your most recent passport must:
- Be in your current name (or you can document your name change)
- Have been issued less than 15 years ago
- Be undamaged
- Be a regular tourist passport (not an official or diplomatic passport)
If your passport does not meet these criteria or you require overnight delivery of your new passport, you must apply in person at an acceptance facility like a post office, courthouse, or public library.
How long does it take to renew my passport?
The processing time for a passport renewal application can take up to 4 to 6 weeks for routine service and 2 to 3 weeks for expedited service. The exact time frame depends on several factors, including the completeness of your application and current processing volumes. You can check the status of your application on the State Department’s passport application status website using your name and passport number. Once processed, your new passport will be mailed to the address you provided in your application.
