Can you renew? (eligibility)
You can renew (instead of applying fresh) if all of these are true:
- Your most recent passport is undamaged and in your possession.
- It was issued when you were 16 or older.
- It was issued within the last 15 years.
- It was issued in your current name (or you can document the name change).
If any of these fail, you must apply in person as a new applicant instead.
Two ways to renew
Option 1: Online renewal
The State Department's online renewal system lets eligible adults renew through a web account — no mailing your old passport. Availability has expanded in phases, so check current eligibility at travel.state.gov. [VERIFY]
Option 2: Renewal by mail (Form DS-82)
Processing times & expediting
Routine processing takes several weeks; expedited service (extra fee) cuts that down, and urgent travel (within ~14 days) may qualify for an in-person appointment. [VERIFY] Times shift with demand — always check the State Department's current posted times before making travel plans, and never book non-refundable travel on an assumed date.
- Expedited: pay the extra expedite fee plus overnight delivery both ways for the fastest mail turnaround.
- Urgent travel: passport agencies take appointments for life-or-death emergencies and travel within days — bring proof.
- Track it: the State Department's online status tool shows where your application is.
Photo rules (top rejection reason)
Bad photos are the most common cause of mailed-renewal delays: plain white background, no glasses, no filters, taken within the last 6 months, 2×2 inches. When in doubt, use a professional passport-photo service.
- State Dept — Renew my passport: https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/passports/have-passport/renew.html
We summarize these sources in our own words. Always confirm critical details (fees, dates, eligibility) on the official site before acting.