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Reviewed July 31, 2026

Get or renew a U.S. passport

Determine whether to apply in person, renew online, or renew by mail before gathering documents and paying fees.

Choose the correct path first

First-time adult applicants and adults who do not qualify for renewal generally use Form DS-11 and apply in person. Eligible adults may renew online or by mail.

Recommended order

  1. Check whether you need a new passport or a renewal. Your previous passport, age when it was issued, condition, and issue date determine the route.
  2. Choose a passport book, card, or both. The passport card has limited travel uses and is not valid for international air travel.
  3. Gather citizenship evidence, photo identification, photocopies, and a compliant photo.
  4. Calculate fees using the official fee calculator. First-time applicants generally pay separate application and execution fees.
  5. Allow processing and mailing time. Current published processing times can change and do not include mailing time.

Current processing options

As reviewed on July 31, 2026, routine processing is 4–6 weeks and expedited processing is 2–3 weeks, plus mailing time. Online renewal cannot be expedited. Qualifying urgent travel may use a passport agency appointment within 14 calendar days of travel, or 28 days when a foreign visa is required.

Passport paperwork for another country

This guidance applies only to U.S. passports. Passport, citizenship, or identity procedures for Spain and Argentina use different authorities and requirements. Choose the country where you need to complete the paperwork.

Official sources

Children, lost passports, and photos

Children under 16 use a new in-person DS-11 application and cannot renew a child passport. A valid passport that is lost or stolen must be reported and canceled before or while applying for a replacement. Every route also requires a photo that meets the current printed or digital specifications.

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