Can you renew by mail? The 5-point check
You can renew with Form DS-82 by mail if ALL of these are true:
If any fail, you must apply in person with Form DS-11 as a first-time applicant — see our first-time passport guide.
How to renew by mail (DS-82)
- 1. Fill Form DS-82 online at travel.state.gov or by hand in black ink
- 2. Attach one new passport photo (2×2 in, taken within 6 months)
- 3. Include your most recent passport (it is returned separately)
- 4. Check or money order for $130 to "U.S. Department of State"
- 5. Mail to the address on the form — use trackable mail
Online renewal
The State Department now offers online renewal for eligible adults whose passport expired within the last 5 years. Same $130 fee, no mailing required — but it cannot be expedited. If you are traveling soon, mail + expedite or a courier is safer.
Fees and processing times (2026)
| Service | Fee | Time |
|---|---|---|
| Routine renewal | $130 | 6-8 weeks |
| Expedited renewal | $190 | 2-5 weeks |
| Courier renewal | $290+ | 24-72 hrs |
Renew online with document pre-check
iVisa reviews your renewal application and photo before submission — catching the errors that cause 30% of rejections. Fully online, tracked, and available for expedited processing.
Renewal rejection reasons (and fixes)
- Photo non-compliant — the #1 cause. See our photo requirements guide.
- Passport too old — issued more than 15 years ago = DS-11 in person.
- Name mismatch — include a marriage certificate or court order.
- Damaged passport — water damage, torn pages, or a loose cover = in-person application.
Passport card vs book
The passport card ($30) is valid only for land/sea travel to Canada, Mexico, Bermuda, and the Caribbean — never for international flights. Most travelers should renew the book.