Important Due to Covid-19, processing times for passports are taking longer than normal for both standard and expedited services.

Can I renew my passport if it expires in only 4 days?

by Margaret
(Loveland, Colorado, USA)

Question: I want to renew my passport without paying extra but it expires in four days. I don't have immediate travel plans so don't need it in the next three or four months. I didn't realize it was so close to expiring. I keep it at the bank in a safety deposit box so don't look at it very often.


Can I take it to a passport office near where i live and renew it there without any problem? I have never had to renew it before so don't know what is involved.

Answer: You can renew your passport by mail even if it is expired as long as it is not damaged and you were not a minor when it was issued. Passports can be renewed by mail if they were issued no more than 15 years ago.

If you meet these criteria, you are not required to visit an application acceptance facility.

Just mail completed form DS-82 along with your most recent passport and one passport photo (not more than 6 months old) to the address on the application form.

For complete instructions, click the link below.

Apply for Passport Renewal

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Will I be penalized with late fees?
by: Anonymous

Question: Will I be penalized with late fees if I renew too close to the expiry date?

Answer: No, you will not. In fact, you may renew your passport up to 5 years after it expires.

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UPDATE:

High demand and mailing delays are impacting how long it takes to get a passport.

  • Standard service is currently taking between 10 and 13 weeks.
  • Expedited service is currently taking between 7 to 9 weeks.

NOTE: Processing times begin when applications are received at a passport agency or center. Requesting 1-2-day mailing service is recommended.

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