When to renew your passport.

AI Overview

Yes, you should renew your passport now, especially if it's expiring in less than a year or if you have international travel planned, as some countries require six months of validity remaining. Renewing early is also wise because processing times can vary and are currently at a historical low for routine service, making now an ideal time to apply. You should renew if your passport is expiring within a year, was issued more than 5 years ago, or if you have plans for future travel.

Reasons to renew now

Avoid international entry denial:

Many countries require passports to be valid for at least six months beyond your stay. Renewing now ensures you won't be denied entry due to an expiring passport.

Be prepared for travel: It's easier to renew now than to wait until your passport expires and then have to scramble for a new one, especially since processing times can vary and may be longer during peak seasons.

Take advantage of current processing times:

The U.S. Department of State has recently announced that routine processing times are at a historic low of four to six weeks, and expedited service is two to three weeks.

Avoid potential issues:

A passport is a valuable document, and renewing it even before it expires can prevent potential problems with future travel.

How to renew

Renew online:

You can renew online if your most recent passport is from the last 15 years, it is undamaged, and you are 25 or older.

Renew by mail: If you can't renew online, you can apply by mail using the renewal form. You may also need to make an appointment for faster service if you have upcoming travel.

Renew in person:

If you are traveling in less than three weeks, you can make an appointment at a passport agency or center for urgent processing.

What to do if your passport is expired

For new passports:

If you have a lost, stolen, or damaged passport, or if it has been more than 5 years since it was issued, you may need to apply for a new one.

Visit the U.S. Department of State website: For the most up-to-date information on fees, processing times, and requirements, visit the U.S. Department of State website.

Renew my Passport Online - Travel.gov The passport you are renewing is (or was) valid for 10 years. It must be expiring within 1 year or have expired less than 5 years ...

U.S. Department of State (.gov)