How to Renew Your U.S. Passport Online or by Mail
Thinking about a cruise, a trip abroad or a visit to family overseas next year? Check your passport now. Renewing is easier than many people expect, and most adults can do it online or by mail without visiting a passport office. Here is how it works, as of October 2026.
First, Check Your Dates
Look at the expiration date on your passport. Renewing early gives you breathing room, because online renewals can’t be rushed and mailed passports take time to process. The State Department posts current processing times on its website, so check them before you book.
Option 1: Renew Online
The State Department’s online renewal is open to you if all of these are true:
- Your current passport was valid for 10 years and expires within the next year, or expired less than 5 years ago.
- You are 25 or older.
- You are not changing your name or other personal details.
- You are not traveling for at least 6 weeks. Online renewals can’t be expedited.
- You are in the United States or a U.S. territory when you apply.
- You have your passport, it isn’t damaged, and it has never been reported lost or stolen.
You pay by credit or debit card and upload a digital photo. One important point: once you submit, your old passport is canceled, so don’t use it to travel. Keep it rather than mailing it in.
Scam alert: the only official online renewal site is opr.travel.state.gov. The State Department warns that other sites offering to renew your passport for a fee may be fraudulent, and no third party can submit an online renewal for you.
Option 2: Renew by Mail
You can renew by mail with Form DS-82 if your most recent passport:
- Is in your hands and not damaged beyond normal wear
- Was issued within the last 15 years, when you were 16 or older
- Was valid for 10 years
- Was issued in your current name, or you can show a marriage certificate, divorce decree or court order for the change
- Has never been reported lost or stolen
Steps to Renew by Mail
- Fill out Form DS-82 using the State Department’s online form filler. Print it single-sided, then sign and date it.
- Include your most recent passport.
- If your name has changed, add a certified copy of the legal document.
- Attach one passport photo with four staples, one in each corner. Don’t bend it.
- Pay with a personal check or money order made out to the “U.S. Department of State.” Write your full name and date of birth on the front. Don’t send cash.
- Mail everything with the U.S. Postal Service to the address listed on the State Department’s renewal page. The address depends on your state and whether you are paying to expedite.
What It Costs
As of October 2026, the State Department lists these renewal fees:
- Passport book: $130
- Passport card: $30
- Book and card together: $160
- Expedited service by mail (2 to 3 weeks): $60 extra
- Faster return delivery (1 to 3 days after it’s printed): $26.87 extra
Passport Photo Tips
- The printed photo must be 2 by 2 inches and taken within the last 6 months.
- Take off your glasses. If you can’t for medical reasons, include a signed note from your doctor.
- Use a plain white or off-white background with no shadows.
- If you use a wheelchair, part of the head support may show; include a short note explaining why.
- Don’t use filters or retouching, because edited photos can be rejected.
Many pharmacies, post offices and photo shops take passport photos, or a family member can take one for you.
When You Must Apply in Person
If you don’t meet the rules for mail or online renewal, for example because your passport was lost or was issued more than 15 years ago, you will need to apply in person instead.
Questions? The National Passport Information Center can help at 877-487-2778.
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