State department passport renewal services are now faster and more accessible in 2026, with online applications fully available nationwide and processing times stabilized after years of pandemic-related backlogs.
Americans planning international travel this year have more streamlined options than ever before. The U.S. Department of State has continued expanding its online renewal system, improved processing efficiency, and maintained clear timelines for routine and expedited service. Here’s what U.S. travelers need to know right now.
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Online Passport Renewal Is Fully Available
Eligible U.S. adults can renew their passports entirely online through the Department of State’s secure portal. This system, which was gradually introduced and expanded nationwide, allows applicants to submit Form DS-82 electronically without mailing paper documents.
To qualify for online renewal, applicants must:
- Be at least 25 years old
- Have a passport valid for 10 years
- Have received their most recent passport between ages 16 and 80
- Live in the United States
- Not need to change their name, gender, date of birth, or place of birth
- Not be traveling internationally within the next eight weeks
Applicants upload a digital passport photo, pay online, and track status electronically.
There is no extra fee to renew online compared to mail renewal.
Current Processing Times in 2026
Processing times have stabilized compared to the peak delays seen in 2023. As of February 2026, the Department of State lists the following estimates:
- Routine Service: 6 to 8 weeks
- Expedited Service: 2 to 3 weeks
- Expedited at Agency (Urgent Travel): Typically within 14 days of travel
These timeframes do not include mailing time, which can add up to two weeks total for delivery both ways.
Travelers are strongly encouraged to apply at least six months before international travel. Many countries require passports to be valid for six months beyond the date of entry.
Fees for Passport Renewal
Passport renewal fees remain consistent in 2026.
For adults renewing with Form DS-82:
| Service Type | Fee |
|---|---|
| Passport Book | $130 |
| Passport Card | $30 |
| Book + Card | $160 |
| Expedited Service | Additional $60 |
| 1–2 Day Delivery Return (Optional) | $19.53 |
Online and mail renewals cost the same.
Payments made online are processed electronically. Mail applicants must submit checks or money orders payable to the U.S. Department of State.
Who Can Renew by Mail?
Applicants who do not qualify for online renewal may still use mail renewal if they meet these conditions:
- Their passport is undamaged
- It was issued within the last 15 years
- They were at least 16 years old when it was issued
- It was issued in their current name, or they can document a legal name change
Mail renewals require sending:
- Completed Form DS-82
- Most recent passport
- New passport photo
- Payment
- Name change documentation (if applicable)
Applicants should use a trackable mailing service when submitting documents.
When You Must Apply in Person
Some Americans cannot use mail or online renewal.
You must apply in person using Form DS-11 if:
- Your passport was lost or stolen
- Your passport 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
In-person applications require a passport acceptance facility such as a post office or clerk of court.
Urgent and Emergency Passport Renewal Options
For travelers with urgent international travel within 14 days, or within 28 days if a visa is required, the Department of State offers in-person appointments at regional passport agencies.
Appointments are limited and must be scheduled.
Applicants must provide proof of travel, such as:
- Confirmed flight itinerary
- Travel booking confirmation
- Official letter requiring international travel
Emergency life-or-death situations involving immediate family members abroad may qualify for special emergency processing.
Passport Validity Rules to Remember
Even if your passport has not technically expired, it may not be valid for travel.
Many countries enforce the “six-month validity rule.” This means your passport must remain valid for at least six months beyond your arrival date.
Additionally, some countries require at least one or two blank visa pages.
Before traveling internationally, check both your passport expiration date and entry requirements for your destination.
How to Track Your Renewal Status
Applicants can track passport status online through the Department of State’s passport status system.
Status updates typically appear:
- Two weeks after applying for mail renewals
- Shortly after submission for online renewals
Status categories include:
- Not Available
- In Process
- Approved
- Mailed
Applicants who provided email addresses receive automatic status updates.
Digital Passport Photos: What’s Allowed
Online renewal requires uploading a compliant digital photo.
The photo must:
- Be taken within the last six months
- Be in color
- Have a plain white or off-white background
- Show a neutral facial expression
- Avoid glasses unless medically necessary
Improper photos are one of the most common reasons applications are delayed.
Mail applicants must submit printed 2×2-inch photos that meet the same requirements.
Name Changes and Passport Renewal
If you changed your name due to marriage, divorce, or court order, you may still qualify for renewal by mail or online.
However, you must provide:
- A certified marriage certificate
- Divorce decree
- Court-ordered name change document
Photocopies are not accepted unless specified.
If your passport was issued less than one year ago and you changed your name, you may qualify for a no-fee correction using Form DS-5504.
Passport Card vs. Passport Book
Many travelers ask whether they need both.
A passport book is required for:
- International air travel
- Most international travel outside North America
A passport card is valid only for:
- Land and sea travel to Canada
- Mexico
- Bermuda
- Caribbean countries
It cannot be used for international air travel.
Frequent cruise travelers sometimes choose both options.
Backlog Recovery and Improvements Since 2023
In 2023, passport demand reached record levels. Processing delays stretched beyond 10 weeks at times.
Since then, the Department of State has:
- Increased staffing
- Expanded appointment availability
- Fully launched online renewal
- Reduced wait times to pre-surge levels
As of early 2026, routine service timelines are consistent nationwide.
Avoiding Common Renewal Mistakes
Errors can delay applications significantly.
Common mistakes include:
- Incorrect or incomplete DS-82 forms
- Photos that do not meet requirements
- Signing in the wrong section
- Forgetting to include payment
- Applying too close to travel dates
Double-checking every section before submission reduces the risk of delays.
Travel Planning Tips for 2026
International travel demand remains strong in 2026. Spring break and summer remain peak application periods.
To avoid stress:
- Renew at least six months before expiration
- Do not wait until travel is booked
- Consider expedited service during peak seasons
- Monitor your passport’s expiration date annually
Renewing early provides peace of mind and avoids costly last-minute appointments.
Security and Fraud Awareness
Applicants should only use the official Department of State website for renewals.
Third-party websites often charge excessive fees for services that applicants can complete directly for standard government costs.
Official communications will come from a government email domain.
What’s New This Year
The biggest development in recent years remains the full implementation of online renewal nationwide.
More Americans now qualify for digital submission, which reduces mailing risks and speeds up intake processing. The system also allows for secure digital payments and real-time tracking.
These improvements have helped keep wait times stable despite continued high demand for passports.
Final Thoughts
Passport renewal in 2026 is far more streamlined than it was just a few years ago. Whether applying online, by mail, or in person for urgent travel, Americans now have clear timelines and transparent options.
Processing times remain steady, fees are unchanged, and digital access continues expanding. Planning ahead remains the smartest strategy for avoiding delays.
Have questions about your renewal timeline or recent travel experiences? Share your thoughts below and stay informed on the latest passport updates.
