State department passport renewal remains one of the most important steps for Americans planning international travel in 2026, and current processing times and online options make early preparation easier than in recent years.
With global travel demand holding steady, the U.S. Department of State continues operating under stabilized timelines after record application surges in previous years. Online renewals are fully available to eligible adults across the country, fees remain consistent, and routine processing has returned to predictable ranges. Here is a comprehensive breakdown of how renewal works right now.
Current Passport Processing Times in 2026
As of February 2026, the Department of State lists the following processing estimates:
- Routine Service: 6 to 8 weeks
- Expedited Service: 2 to 3 weeks
- Urgent Travel (Agency Appointment): Available for travel within 14 days
These timeframes begin once the application is received at a processing center. Mailing time can add up to two additional weeks total.
Travelers should apply at least six months before international trips. Many countries require passports to be valid for six months beyond the date of entry. Airlines may deny boarding if validity rules are not met.
Who Qualifies for Online Renewal
Eligible adults can complete their renewal entirely online through the Department of State’s secure system. This option eliminates the need to print forms or mail physical documents.
You may qualify if:
- You are at least 25 years old
- Your current passport is valid or expired less than five years ago
- You were between 16 and 80 when it was issued
- You live in the United States
- You are not changing your name, gender, date of birth, or place of birth
- You are not traveling internationally within eight weeks
Applicants upload a compliant digital photo, complete Form DS-82 electronically, and pay the fee online. After submission, you can monitor your application status through a secure portal.
Online renewal costs the same as renewing by mail.
Fees for Passport Renewal in 2026
Passport renewal fees have not changed this year.
| Renewal Option | Cost |
|---|---|
| Passport Book | $130 |
| Passport Card | $30 |
| Book and Card | $160 |
| Expedited Processing | +$60 |
| Optional 1–2 Day Return Delivery | $19.53 |
A passport book allows international travel by air, land, and sea. A passport card works only for land and sea entry from Canada, Mexico, Bermuda, and certain Caribbean destinations.
Most Americans choose the passport book because it is required for international flights.
Renewing by Mail: Step-by-Step
If you do not qualify for online renewal, you may renew by mail using Form DS-82.
You must meet these conditions:
- Your passport is undamaged
- It was issued within the last 15 years
- You were at least 16 years old when it was issued
- It reflects your current name or you can document a legal name change
Mail renewal requires:
- Completed and signed Form DS-82
- Your most recent passport
- One 2×2-inch passport photo
- Payment by check or money order
- Certified name change document if applicable
Use a trackable mailing method. This helps protect your documents during transit.
When You Must Apply in Person
Some situations require in-person application using Form DS-11 at a passport acceptance facility.
You must apply in person if:
- Your passport was lost or stolen
- It is significantly damaged
- It expired more than 15 years ago
- You were under 16 when it was issued
- You are applying for your first passport
Acceptance facilities include post offices, local government offices, and clerks of court. Appointments are often required.
Applicants must bring proof of citizenship, government-issued identification, a photo, and payment.
Urgent Travel and Emergency Appointments
Travelers departing within 14 days may schedule an appointment at a regional passport agency. Those who require a foreign visa within 28 days may also qualify for urgent service.
Appointments must be scheduled in advance. Walk-ins are not accepted.
You must provide proof of travel, such as:
- A confirmed flight itinerary
- A travel confirmation showing departure date
- Official documentation requiring international travel
In life-or-death emergencies involving an immediate family member abroad, emergency appointments may be available with proper documentation.
Because appointment availability can fill quickly, travelers should call as soon as urgent travel is confirmed.
How to Track Your Passport Renewal
Once you submit your application, you can check your status online.
Status categories include:
- Not Available
- In Process
- Approved
- Mailed
For mail renewals, status updates may take up to two weeks to appear. Online applicants often see updates sooner.
Email notifications are available for applicants who provide an address during submission.
Digital Photo Requirements in 2026
Passport photo compliance remains one of the most common causes of delays.
Photo rules include:
- Taken within the last six months
- Clear, color image
- Plain white or off-white background
- Neutral facial expression
- No glasses unless medically necessary
- No uniforms or camouflage attire
For online renewals, the image must meet digital resolution and size requirements. For mail renewals, a printed 2×2-inch photo is required.
Incorrect lighting, shadows, or improper cropping can lead to rejection.
Name Changes and Corrections
If your legal name has changed, you may still qualify for renewal if you provide certified documentation.
Accepted documents include:
- Marriage certificate
- Divorce decree
- Court order
If your passport was issued less than one year ago, you may request a correction without paying the standard renewal fee by submitting the appropriate correction form.
Make sure documents are certified originals or official copies issued by the appropriate authority.
Validity Rules That Impact Travel
Even a passport that has not expired may not meet international travel requirements.
Many countries enforce the six-month validity rule. This means your passport must remain valid for six months beyond your planned return date.
Some destinations also require one or two blank visa pages.
Before booking international travel, verify entry rules for your destination and check your expiration date.
High-Demand Travel Seasons
Application volumes tend to increase during:
- Late winter and early spring
- Early summer
- Holiday travel periods
During these times, expedited requests may rise significantly. While official processing windows remain stable, earlier submission reduces stress.
Families planning group travel should confirm that every traveler’s passport is valid well before departure.
Security and Scam Prevention
Only use the official Department of State platform to renew your passport.
Third-party services often charge unnecessary fees for tasks applicants can complete themselves. Government renewal costs remain fixed and transparent.
Official communications will come from government domains. Be cautious of emails requesting additional payments outside the official system.
Improvements in System Efficiency
Following record-breaking demand in recent years, passport agencies increased staffing and streamlined intake procedures.
The online renewal system has helped reduce paperwork errors and mailing delays. Digital submissions move directly into processing queues without waiting for physical delivery.
As a result, current timelines are more predictable than during peak backlog periods.
Tips to Avoid Delays
To ensure smooth processing:
- Double-check every form field before submitting
- Confirm your signature is placed correctly
- Review photo requirements carefully
- Apply well before international travel
- Keep copies of submitted documents
Small errors can slow approval. Careful preparation prevents unnecessary setbacks.
Why Early Renewal Matters
Many Americans wait until their passport is close to expiration. That approach can create problems.
Airlines enforce validity rules strictly. Cruise lines may deny boarding if documentation does not meet destination requirements. Visa applications often require extended passport validity as well.
Renewing early provides flexibility and reduces travel risk.
If your passport expires within the next year, now is the time to consider renewal.
Planning Ahead for 2026 Travel
International tourism remains strong in 2026. Spring break, summer vacations, and winter holidays continue to drive high passport usage.
Whether you plan a European tour, a Caribbean cruise, or a business trip overseas, passport validity should be confirmed first.
State department passport renewal processing remains consistent nationwide, giving travelers clear expectations when applying under routine or expedited service.
Preparing early, verifying documentation, and choosing the correct renewal method will help ensure smooth travel plans throughout the year.
Planning an international trip soon? Check your passport expiration date today and share your renewal experience or questions in the comments below.