How Long Will It Take to Renew U.S. Passport?
Renewing a U.S. passport is a task that many Americans need to undertake every 10 years. However, the time it takes to renew a passport can vary depending on a variety of factors. In this article, we will explore the process of renewing a U.S. passport and provide some insights into how long it can take.
The first step in renewing a U.S. passport is to fill out Form DS-82, which is available on the U.S. Department of State’s website. This form requires applicants to provide basic information such as their name, date of birth, and current passport number. In addition, applicants must provide a recent passport photo that meets the State Department’s specifications.
Once the application has been submitted, the next step is to pay the renewal fee. As of 2021, the fee for renewing a U.S. passport is $110 for a standard adult passport book. There are additional fees for expedited processing and for adding extra pages to the passport.
After the application and fee have been submitted, the processing time for a U.S. passport renewal can vary. According to the State Department’s website, routine processing time for a U.S. passport renewal is currently 10-12 weeks. However, this timeframe can be affected by factors such as the time of year, the volume of applications being processed, and any errors or missing information on the application.
For those who need their passport renewed more quickly, expedited processing is available for an additional fee. According to the State Department’s website, expedited processing takes 4-6 weeks. In addition, there are options for even faster processing times in emergency situations, such as if a traveler has a last-minute trip planned.
In addition to the processing time for renewing a U.S. passport, there are a few other factors to consider. For example, applicants who have changed their name since their last passport was issued will need to provide documentation of the name change, such as a marriage certificate or court order. This can add time to the renewal process.
Another factor to consider is the validity of the passport being renewed. If a passport has been expired for more than 5 years, it is considered a first-time application rather than a renewal, and additional documentation may be required. In this case, the processing time will be longer than for a standard renewal.
Overall, the time it takes to renew a U.S. passport can vary depending on a variety of factors. For most applicants, the standard processing time of 10-12 weeks will apply. However, those who need their passport renewed more quickly can opt for expedited processing for an additional fee. By understanding the renewal process and planning ahead, travelers can ensure that they have a valid passport in time for their next trip.
