Can I get a new passport with a new photo if it's not about to expire?
by Wendy
(San Francisco)
Question: My last passport renewal was a rush and the picture is absolutely terrible. I am hoping I can apply for a new one with a better photo. Can I, or do I have to wait until it is about to expire? And I need it within 6 weeks, is that doable?
Thanks!
Answer: You can renew your passport whenever you wish. However, you will lose the remaining validity in your passport and be required to pay the applicable fees. We recommend you include a brief written statement as to why you want to renew early.
In order to renew your passport within 6 weeks, we recommend that you expedite it. It is possible that it could arrive in less than 6 weeks using regular service but there is no guarantee.
To expedite your passport renewal, send the completed Form DS-82, your current passport and one passport photo to the address on the application. Include payment of $170 to cover the application fee ($110) and expedited service fee ($60). You can add an additional $12.85 if you want overnight delivery of the new passport.
Write the word "EXPEDITE" on the outside of the envelope. All applicants are encouraged to send documents using a secure package such as a Tyvek envelope and to use a traceable method of delivery.
Click for fast expedited courier service
Top 5 Questions About Expedited Passport Couriers
2. What exactly does a passport expediter do?
3. Are passport expediting services legitimate?
4. How can I identify a reliable passport expeditor?
5. Is expedited passport service worth it? Read them in order or click the question you most want answered.
Expedited service takes from 7 to 9 weeks excluding mailing times on the front and back end. Current mailing delays are significant. Requesting 1-2-day mailing service is recommended.
Regional passport agencies are offering two types of appointments: Life-of-Death Emergency Service and Urgent Travel Service.
Life-or-death emergencies are serious illnesses, injuries, or deaths in your immediate family (parent, legal guardian, child, spouse, sibling, and grandparent) that require you to travel outside the United States within 3 business days.
If you need to travel due to a qualified life-or-death emergency, please call the National Passport Information Center for an appointment:
Mondays through Fridays 8 A.M. to 8 P.M. ET, call 1-877-487-2778 (TDD/TTY:1-888-874-7793) Outside of these hours, call 202-647-4000.
For Urgent Travel Service, you need to call 14 days before your scheduled international travel or 28 days if you also need to secure a foreign visa.
If you need to travel urgently for reasons other than a life-or-death emergency, please call the NPIC at 1-877-487-2778 Mondays through Fridays 8 A.M. to 10 P.M. ET.
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