Frequently Asked Questions - Applying for a U.S. Passport

Here are some frequently asked questions about applying for your U.S. Passport. For more information, visit travel.state.gov

  • You can renew by mail using FORM DS-82 if your most recent passport:
  • Was issued when you were age 16 or older
  • Was issued within the last 15 years
  • HAS NOT been expired for more than 5 years
  • If any of the above statements do not apply to you, you must Apply in Person using FORM DS-11.
  • No. You must mail in your renewal application yourself. We recommend using a trackable delivery method when mailing in your passport application.
  • If you choose Routine Service: 10-13 Weeks
  • If you choose Expedited Service: 7-9 Weeks
  • Any original documents submitted with the application will be mailed back separately from the newly issued passport. Please contact the U.S Department of State if you do not receive a second mailing within 10 business days of receiving the first.
  • If you were age 16 or older when your passport was issued, your passport is valid for 10 years.
  • If you were under 16 when your passport was issued, your passport is valid for 5 years.
  • A U.S. passport (or passport book) is valid for all forms of international travel anywhere in the world
  • A U.S. passport card is only valid for sea or land crossings into the United States from Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Bermuda. You cannot use a passport card for international travel by air.