Travel topic · Money
US passport: how to renew or apply and how long it takes
Check eligibility and online options on travel.state.gov; if eligible, renew online, otherwise apply in person – standard processing typically 2–3 weeks, expedited services available for an extra fee (check).
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Applies to
Clear steps to renew or apply for a US passport, costs, processing times and special cases. Updated for 2026.
Key facts
- Standard processing timecheck
- 2–3 weeks
- Urgent (24‑hour) servicecheck
- Available for an extra fee (check)
- Online renewal eligibilitycheck
- Passport ≤ 5 years old, not damaged, issued at age ≥ 16, no name change (check)
Your checklist
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Who can use this guide
US citizens needing a new passport or a renewal. First‑time applicants, minors, name‑change cases and those whose passport expired more than 5 years ago must apply in person.
Renewal process
If you meet the online‑renewal criteria (check current rules on travel.state.gov), fill the DS‑82 form, upload a digital photo, pay the fee and mail the old passport. Expect delivery in 2–3 weeks (check).
If you do not qualify, use the DS‑11 form, appear at an acceptance facility (post office, library or passport agency), bring a passport‑type photo, proof of US citizenship and ID. The agency forwards the application; standard timing remains 2–3 weeks (check).
Do
- Use the State Dept. fee calculator to confirm the exact amount before paying.
- Track your mailed renewal with the provided tracking number.
Watch out
- Do not travel internationally until you have the new passport in hand.
Show 5 sectionsHideFirst‑time application, Cost and timing, Exceptions and special cases, Questions people ask, Related
First‑time application
Complete the DS‑11 form online, print it and do not sign until instructed by the acceptance agent. Bring: (1) proof of US citizenship (birth certificate or naturalisation certificate), (2) government‑issued photo ID, (3) one passport‑type photo, (4) the completed form, and (5) the fee.
Submit in person; the agency will send the packet to the passport center. Processing is the same 2–3 weeks unless you request expedited service (check).
Do
- For minors, both parents usually must appear; a notarised consent form may be accepted in some cases (check).
Watch out
- A minor’s passport is valid for 5 years only.
Cost and timing
Standard adult passport (10‑year) fee: $130 (check).
Standard minor passport (5‑year) fee: $100 (check).
Expedited (2‑week) service adds $60 (check).
Urgent 24‑hour service adds $60 plus $30 for overnight delivery (check).
Processing times are estimates; peak travel seasons can add a week (check).
| Service | Fee (USD) | Processing time |
|---|---|---|
| Standard adult (10 yr) | $130 | 2–3 weeks |
| Standard minor (5 yr) | $100 | 2–3 weeks |
| Expedited (2 wk) | $190 | 2 weeks |
| Urgent 24‑hr | $250 | 1 day |
Fees and timings are 2026 estimates; verify on travel.state.gov.
Exceptions and special cases
Lost or stolen passport: file a DS‑64, then follow the DS‑11 process.
Name change after marriage/divorce: bring a certified marriage certificate or court order with the DS‑11.
Travel within 72 hours: apply at a regional passport agency (e.g., Washington, DC; New York; Los Angeles; Miami; Chicago) with proof of travel; appointment required (check).
Do
- Make an appointment online at travel.state.gov for urgent agency visits.
Watch out
- Regional agencies charge the same fees but may require proof of immediate travel (check).
Questions people ask
What is the short answer?
Renew online if eligible; otherwise apply in person. Standard processing 2–3 weeks, urgent 24‑hour for an extra fee.
Who does it apply to?
All US citizens needing a new passport – first‑time applicants, renewals, minors, name‑change cases, and those whose passport expired over five years ago.
How much does it cost and how long does it take?
Adult 10‑year passport $130, 2–3 weeks. Expedited adds $60 for 2‑week service. Urgent 24‑hour adds $60 plus $30 delivery, total about $250, delivered next day.
Can I travel while my renewal is processing?
No – you must have a valid passport for international travel. Use an expired passport only for US domestic travel.
What documents do I need for a first‑time passport?
Proof of US citizenship, government‑issued photo ID, passport‑type photo, completed DS‑11 form, and the applicable fee.
Deep dive
Every source; changeable facts are marked check and were last checked Sep 2026