As a United States citizen, you may be wondering when you can renew your passport. Renewing your passport is an important process that ensures you can continue to travel internationally. The United States Department of State recommends renewing your passport approximately nine months before it expires. This allows for enough time to receive your new passport before your current one expires and to avoid any potential travel disruptions.
To renew your passport in the United States, there are a few different options available to you. The most common way to renew your passport is by using Form DS-82, which can be filled out online and then printed. You will need to provide your current passport, a recent passport photo, and the renewal fee. The fee for renewing an adult passport is $110, while the fee for a minor passport (under the age of 16) is $80.
Another option for renewing your passport is to do so in person at a passport acceptance facility. This process is recommended if your passport has been lost or stolen, damaged, or if it has been more than 15 years since it was issued. When renewing your passport in person, you will need to fill out Form DS-11, provide proof of citizenship, present a valid form of photo ID, submit a recent passport photo, and pay the renewal fee.
If you are in a hurry to renew your passport, you can expedite the process for an additional fee. This will ensure that you receive your new passport within 2-3 weeks, rather than the standard 4-6 weeks. Expedited renewals can be done by mail or in person at a passport acceptance facility.
It is important to note that if your passport has been expired for more than five years, you will need to apply for a new passport as if it were your first time. This means you will need to fill out Form DS-11, provide proof of citizenship, present a valid form of photo ID, submit a recent passport photo, and pay the new passport fee of $145 for adults or $115 for minors.
Renewing your passport is a relatively simple process that ensures you can continue to travel internationally. By renewing your passport approximately nine months before it expires, you can avoid any potential travel disruptions and ensure that you have the necessary documentation for your trips abroad. Whether you choose to renew your passport by mail or in person, the important thing is to start the renewal process early to avoid any last-minute stress.
