Bottom line: Most adults can renew with Form DS-82 (usually by mail) if their last passport was issued within the last 15 years and issued when they were age 16 or older. If you don't qualify for DS-82, you apply in person with Form DS-11. If you travel internationally within 14 days (or need a visa within 28 days), you may need an urgent passport processing.
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Step 1: Are you renewing (DS-82)?
Answer these questions in order. In most cases, you'll know the right path in under a minute.
Quick Check: DS-82 (Renewal) Eligibility
You can usually renew with Form DS-82 if ALL of these are true:
- You can submit your most recent U.S. passport with your application (you have it in hand).
- It is not significantly damaged (normal wear is OK).
- It was issued when you were age 16 or older.
- It was issued within the last 15 years.
- It was issued in your current name, OR you can include an official name-change document (marriage certificate, court order, etc.).
If YES to all: Your path is Renew by mail (DS-82) - step-by-step.
If NO to any: Your path is usually Apply in person with DS-11.
Step 2: How soon do you travel?
Travel in 6 weeks or more
You can apply for routine processing by mail to get a passport in 4 to 6 weeks
Travel in Less Than 6 Weeks
You may qualify for an expedited passport renewal. This allows you to accelerate the process when you have imminent international travel.
You still apply by mail but have to add the expedited service fee to your payment. We recommend you write "Expedite" on the envelope. Processing usuually takes ***ExpeditedTimes.shtml** but it varies. Processing time does not include mailing time.
Travel in Less Than 2-3 Weeks
When you require urgent passport renewal, the fastest path is to apply at a regional agency. Both an appointment and proof of international travel are required.
Those who are unable to visit an agency can hire a registered passport courier to submit the renewal application.
Travel in 3 Days or Less
Emergency, life-or-death situations that require you renew a passport in just a few day require you prove your need for such fast processing
Same day renewal service is offered by a few private courier companies. The one day service does not include mailing or delivery time.
Common situations (choose the one that sounds like you)
I'm an adult renewing a 10-year passport
If your passport was issued when you were 16+ and within the last 15 years, you'll usually renew with DS-82.
Go here: DS-82 renewal instructions
I'm 16 or 17
16-17-year-olds must apply in person with DS-11, since their previous passport was issued when they were under age 16.
Go here: Passport for a 16 or 17-year-old
My passport is damaged
If your passport is damaged beyond normal wear, you need to apply in person with DS-11 (and submit the damaged passport).
Go here: Damaged passport: what to do
My passport was lost or stolen
If your passport was lost or stolen, you cannot renew with DS-82 since you are unable to submit it with the application form. You'll have to apply in person with DS-11 and report the loss.
Go here: Lost passport: what to do
I changed my name
If you qualify for DS-82, you can renew by mail as long as you include an acceptable name-change document.
Go here: Name change on passport
This is for a minor under 16
Children under 16 cannot renew by mail. They must apply in person using DS-11 with both parents/guardians participation.
Go here: Child passport application
Where you actually apply
- DS-82 renewal: typically submitted by mail (or online if eligible).
- DS-11 application: submitted in person at a passport acceptance facility (often a post office, clerk of court, or local government office).
- Urgent travel: handled through a passport agency/center appointment when you qualify or through a passport expediter.
Fast answers (FAQ)
Can I renew if my passport is expired?
It depends. You can renwe an expired passport as long as it still meets the DS-82 requirements (especially: issued within the last 15 years and issued when you were 16+). If not, you'll apply in person with DS-11.
Can I renew at the post office?
Post offices and other acceptance facilities only handle DS-11 applications. DS-82 renewals are mailed in (or completed online, if eligible).
What if I travel soon and I'm not sure which option is fast enough?
Use the "How soon do you travel?" section above. If you travel within 14 days (or need a visa within 28 days), start with urgent travel options.
Where do I find the forms?
You can start on our form pages here: DS-11 and DS-82 renewal.
Need it faster than standard processing?
Important: If your trip is very soon, first check whether you qualify for an urgent passport agency appointment. That is often the fastest official path.
If you prefer a done-for-you option, you can also use a registered passport expediting service. These services charge additional fees and are best for travelers who want help managing the paperwork and timeline.
EPassport Renewal Expediting Services
Affiliate disclosure: Some links on this site may result in a commission if you purchase a service. This helps support the website at no extra cost to you.
How we keep this page accurate
- We verify renewal eligibility rules and the DS-82/DS-11 distinction using official U.S. Department of State guidance.
- We update this page when requirements or renewal pathways change.
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?
Get answers to these questions and more in our Ultimate U.S. Traveler's Guide to Passport Expediters.
You can also visit our library of articles about passport expediting.
