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U.S. passports

Find out how to apply for or renew a passport and what to do if your passport is lost or stolen.

Apply for a new adult passport

You need a passport to travel to most countries outside the U.S. Learn how to apply for a passport in person, check your application status, and get it changed or corrected.

Renew an adult passport

Find out if you can renew your passport or need a new one. Learn how to renew your passport by mail or online, get it changed or corrected, or what to do if it expires soon.

Get a passport for a minor under 18

Find out how to get a child's passport, depending on their age.

Lost or stolen passports

If your passport is lost or stolen you must report it to the State Department right away. How you replace it depends on if you are inside or outside the U.S.

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Passport wait times are down: Here's what to know about getting a US passport

As you run down your pre-travel checklist, there is one item you may need that requires some planning: a passport.

Though some destinations do not require U.S. travelers to have a passport, most of the time you'll need one for international travel. Wait times are down from the levels seen during the COVID-19 pandemic, when travelers could expect to wait about four months  for routine service, but travelers still need to think ahead if they want to avoid any disruptions to their plans.

"The COVID-19 pandemic dramatically reduced the Department’s capacity to issue passports," a U.S. State Department official told USA TODAY in an email. "However, we made great strides over the last year to lower passport processing times and are currently meeting our service standards, which almost match pre-pandemic norms."

Here's what travelers need to know about getting a U.S. passport.

How long does it take to get a US passport?

Travelers can expect to wait six to  nine weeks for routine service and three to five weeks for expedited service, according to the State Department . Those processing times do not include mailing times, which may vary across the U.S. Travelers might also have to wait as long as two weeks from the day they apply for their application to be "In Process."

Learn more: Best travel insurance

How much is a US passport?

That depends. Travelers 16 and older applying for a passport for the first time must pay both an application fee and an acceptance fee, according to the State Department . Application fees run $130 for a passport book, $30 for a passport card and $160 for both. The acceptance fee is $35 for each option.

How long is a US passport good for?: Here's what to know - and how to renew it

Where can I travel without a passport?: Check out these 6 destinations

Those 16 and up who are renewing their passports have to pay the same application fees but do not have to pay an acceptance fee. For children under 16, application fees run $100 for a passport book, $15 for a passport card and $115 for both, with a $35 acceptance fee for each option.

For the procrastinators out there, travelers can pay a $60 fee to expedite their passports. They can opt to pay an additional $18.32 for one- to two-day delivery, though that option is not available to applicants for passport cards alone.

The State Department offers a fee calculator on its website, which can help travelers determine how much they will pay.

Where do I go to get a passport?

For routine and expedited service, travelers can apply at an acceptance facility or renew by mail (some must apply in person , including those who have never had a U.S. passport and children under 16). Those with urgent – but non-emergency – international travel plans within 14 calendar days can call 1-877-487-2778 to make an appointment, though some restrictions apply, according to the State Department .

Travelers also can make an appointment if they "have a life-or-death emergency that requires international travel within 72 hours (3 business days)." Qualifying travelers also can  renew their passports online . "Full availability to the public for online passport renewal is targeted for later in 2023," the State Department says.

What to know about traveling with a U.S. passport: They are strong, but not the strongest

Planning a cruise?  Here are the documents and costs to keep in mind

Applicants can find the forms and photo requirements on the State Department's website .

Do you need a passport for a cruise?

Not always. U.S. citizens booked on closed-loop cruises, which start and end at the same U.S. port, can enter the country with a government-issued photo ID and birth certificate instead, but the State Department encourages having a passport "in case of an emergency, such as an unexpected medical air evacuation or the ship docking at an alternate port," according to its  website . Cruise lines might also require it.

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• Passport Forms

Form Finder -- Passport Forms

If you are applying for a U.S. passport, use the Passport Form Filler to fill out our primary forms (DS-11, DS-82, DS-5504, and DS-64) online and print them. The Form Filler will save you time and reduce the chance of errors on your form.

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Thousands of Post Offices ™ accept first-time passport applications for the U.S. Department of State. Most of those locations can also take your passport photo.

• Renewing Passports : If you answer 'Yes' to all 5 eligibility questions in the " Renew a Passport by Mail " section, mail your renewal form directly to the State Department. If you don't meet all the renewal requirements, you'll need to go to a Post Office in person and do a new, first-time passport application.
• First-Time Passports (and Passport Photos) : Schedule your in-person appointment online.

Schedule an Appointment

Alert: --> online scheduler to make an appointment for passport services to ensure the safety of our employees and customers. The State Department has extremely limited passport services due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Expect significant delays of several months before receiving your new U.S. passport. Learn More

Alert: For first-time passport and photo services, please make an appointment using our online scheduler , a Post Office lobby self-service kiosk , or at a Post Office retail counter . We also offer limited Passport walk-in hours at select locations.

First-Time Passports

First-time applicants and people who aren’t allowed to get a new passport by mail.

Apply at a Post Office

Expedited Delivery

Renewing Passports

Most people renewing a passport should mail their application directly to the State Department.

Renew by Mail

Passports for Minors

Passports for children under 16 have special requirements. Make sure you are prepared.

Apply for a First-Time Passport

If you've never had a U.S. passport, are 16 or under, or aren't allowed to renew an existing passport by mail, you need to apply for a new passport in person at the Post Office.

Step 1: Gather Documents Early

Generally, you should apply for your new passport as soon as you know you’ll be traveling internationally—at least several months in advance. Passport processing times may vary, so be sure to check the latest State Department service estimates . First-time applicants, minors, and applicants who need a new passport but may not renew by mail may submit their passport application at the Post Office. The U.S. State Department website explains what you'll need to bring with you.

• Application forms (unsigned)
• Proof of identity document and a photocopy of the front and back
• Proof of U.S. Citizenship document and a photocopy of the front and back
• Passport fees

Apply for a Passport in Person

Step 2: Prepare Your Application Package

Visit the U.S. Department of State website to learn how to apply for a passport and what documents you need.

• Complete your Form DS-11 Application for U.S. Passport on the State Department website.
• Print your completed application. DO NOT SIGN YOUR APPLICATION. A Postal employee must witness your signature.
• Have a passport photo taken.
• Photocopy your proof of identity and U.S. Citizenship documents.
• Post Offices accept credit cards, checks, and money orders for Post Office acceptance fees.
• State Department fees are mailed with your application. You can pay with a personal, certified, cashier's, traveler's check, or money order, payable to "U.S. Department of State."

Get Started on Your Application

Step 3: Schedule an Appointment

Post Offices that offer passport services have set hours, and you'll need to schedule an appointment using the online Retail Customer Appointment Scheduler or a Post Office lobby self-service kiosk.

Scheduling Online

• Go to Schedule an Appointment .
• Choose the passport service you need, along with the number of adults and minors who need appointments.
• You can search for appointment by location or date first. If you search by location first, you'll then be asked to choose a date and time; if you search by date first, you'll then need to choose a location and time.
• After you choose your appointment location and time, provide your contact information, and agree to the Terms and Conditions.
• Click Review Appointment , then confirm your appointment.

If you need to modify or cancel your appointment, click the Manage Appointments tab and enter your confirmation number and email address or phone number.

Using a Self-Service Kiosk

• Go to a Post Office location with lobby self-service kiosks. Find USPS Locations
• At the self-service kiosk, touch the screen to begin, then select "Other Services," then "Passport Scheduler."
• Choose the passport service you need, then enter the number of adults and minors who need appointments.
• Search for Post Office locations by ZIP Code™ or City/State and choose a location.
• Select an available appointment date and time, then agree to the Terms and Conditions.
• Enter your contact information and decide if you'd like to receive SMS text notifications.
• Review and confirm your information, then select “Schedule Appointment” to finalize.
• Take your printed receipt listing your confirmation number and appointment details.

Step 4: Pay Passport Acceptance & Processing Fees

First-time passport applications have two types of basic fees, the application acceptance fee and the application processing fee. Passport photos and fees for faster processing are extra. Learn how to calculate fees and what you can use to pay for them.

Application Acceptance Fees – Postal Service

Pay acceptance fees in person at the Post Office. You may pay by check or money order, payable to "Postmaster," debit card, or credit card.

• $35.00 - Post Office acceptance fee
• $15.00 - Post Office photo fee (if needed)

Application Processing Fees – Department of State

State Department payment is sent with your application package. State Department fees are paid separately from USPS fees.

• State Department Fees State Department passport fees vary. Calculate passport fees online .
• Personal, certified, cashier's, or traveler's check, payable to "U.S. Department of State."
• Money order payable to "U.S. Department of State." You can buy a money order at the Post Office with cash, a debit card, or a traveler's check. You cannot pay with a credit card.

Application Status Updates

• Use the Online Passport Status System to check your application status if you applied by mail or in person. You may not be able to get a status update for 2 weeks after you apply or renew. During these weeks, your application and supporting documents are on their way to the Department of State. See more information about current processing times on the Department of State page " U.S. Passports ."

Renew a Passport by Mail

If you are eligible to renew your passport, please complete Passport Renewal Application Form DS-82 (see completion instructions on the form), and mail your completed renewal application directly to the State Department for processing. To verify if your passport is eligible for renewal by mail, please visit State Department Renew By Mail .

Step 1: Check Your Eligibility to Renew by Mail

A minor's passport may not be renewed by mail; to renew a minor's passport, you need to submit a new, first-time passport application in person . An adult passport may be renewed by mail if it meets certain requirements.

You can renew your adult passport by mail if you answer "Yes" to all 5 of the following statements:

Your passport:

• Is in your possession to submit with your application.
• Is undamaged other than normal "wear and tear."
• Was issued when you were age 16 or older.
• Was issued within the last 15 years.
• Was issued in your current name or you can document your name change. (Name changes are explained on Change a Passport .)

If your passport does not meet all these requirements, do not mail your renewal application. You must prepare the same application package as a first-time passport applicant.

State Department Renew by Mail

Apply early for renewals as many countries require that passports be valid for at least 6 months after you enter their country. Learn how to properly prepare your application package and include all the necessary documents so your passport is processed on time.

• Complete your Passport Renewal Application Form DS-82 on the State Department website.
• Print and sign your DS-82 form.
• Have a passport photo taken. You can schedule a passport photo-only appointment at a Post Office ™ location.
• Calculate your passport renewal fees .
• Collect your most recent passport, completed and signed application, renewal fees, and name change documents, if needed.
• Use an envelope large enough to fit the application without folding it.
• TIP : Pay for Priority Mail Express ® or Priority Mail ® service and get free envelopes that are large enough to hold your application. Order easily online: Priority Mail Express Flat Rate Envelope or Priority Mail Flat Rate Envelope .
• Address the envelope to the location for your state. See page 2 of your DS-82 form.

How to Renew a Passport - Details

Step 3: Mail Your Renewal Application

Department of State recommends using a USPS delivery tracking service to mail your renewal application.

Choose one of the following services:

• USPS Priority Mail ® Service with Delivery Confirmation
• USPS Priority Mail ® Service with Signature Confirmation
• USPS Priority Mail Express ® Service (for overnight delivery requests)

Compare Delivery Tracking Services

Step 4: Follow Your Application Progress

If you use a USPS delivery tracking service, go to USPS Tracking ® to see when your package is delivered.

• With a USPS tracking service, you can see when your application arrived using the tracking number on your receipt.

USPS Tracking Status

U.S. Passport Application Status

Expedited Passport Delivery

Get a new passport faster in emergencies & special cases.

If you need your passport faster for emergency travel or another special case, you can send your passport application via Priority Mail Express ® service and pay the State Department fee for faster delivery.

Life-or-Death Emergency

If you need to travel within 72 hours (3 business days) for an immediate family member who is dead, dying, or has a life-threatening illness or injury:

• Visit the Life-or-Death Emergencies page on travel.state.gov to learn if you are eligible.
• The State Department processes these requests by appointment only.
• Your appointment date must be within 72 hours (3 business days) of travel.

Urgent Travel in Less than 10 Weeks

If you are traveling in less than 10 weeks, you must call the State Department Passport Agency to schedule an appointment:

• You can call 1-877-487-2778 (1-888-874-7793 TDD/TTY) to schedule an appointment.
• Your appointment date must be within 72 hours (3 business days) of travel, and you must provide proof of travel.

Note : An extremely limited number of appointments are available for customers who are traveling internationally in the next 72 hours (3 business days), and other restrictions apply .

Get My Passport Fast

Renew Your Passport Fast

If you pay an additional $60 for expedited service and mail it with Priority Mail Express , you can get your renewed passport within 10 weeks.

• Check your eligibility under Renew Your Passport by Mail, Step 1: Check Your Eligibility to Renew by Mail .
• Prepare your application as listed under Renew a Passport by Mail, Step 2: Prepare Your Application Package .
• Add these special fees, both payable to the U.S. Department of State, to your regular processing fees.
• $60.00—Expedited application processing at the State Department
• $21.36—1- to 2-day delivery service for faster return shipping to you from the State Department
• Clearly mark "EXPEDITE" on the outside of the envelope.
• Ship your application to the State Department by Priority Mail Express. Cost varies by location.
• Both parents/guardians must authorize the issuance of a child's passport. The best way to give consent is for both parents/guardians to go with the child when applying.
• Children need evidence of citizenship.
• Parents/guardians need proof of parental relationship.
• NOTE: Children's passports are only valid for 5 years. They are not "renewable": When a child's passport expires, you must apply for a new passport for them. When making a passport appointment for a child, please choose "New Passport Only" or "New Passport with Photo Services."

Apply for a Minor's Passport

• Department of State Passport Website English | Español
• Ask Questions at the National Passport Information Center
• Enroll in Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)
• Plan Your Trip with the Traveler's Checklist
• Get Help in an Emergency Overseas

Lost or Stolen Passports

If your passport has been lost or stolen, you should report it immediately to the U.S. Department of State.

Report Your Lost/Stolen Passport

Passport Acceptance Facility Search Page

Use this site to find the nearest acceptance facility where you can submit your U.S. passport application. Acceptance facilities include post offices, clerks of court, public libraries, and other local government offices which accept passport applications on behalf of the U.S. Department of State. Search for facilities by zip code, state, or state/city. You can also find facilities which offer on-site photo services.

• Download and fill out passport forms
• Steps on how to apply
• Calculate your fees
• Find current processing times

Please note that information on this site changes weekly. If you wish to provide feedback on using this site, click here.  

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How to Calculate Your Passport Fees on Travel.State.Gov: A Step-by-Step Guide

If you’re planning a trip abroad, one of the first things you’ll need is a passport. But before you can jet off to your dream destination, there’s one important thing you need to know: how much it will cost. Fortunately, the U.S. Department of State makes it easy to calculate your passport fees online through their website, travel.state.gov.

Understanding Passport Fees

Passport fees vary depending on several factors such as age, whether it’s a new or renewal application, and if expedited service is needed. The standard processing time for a new passport is 4-6 weeks while expedited service can take up to 3 weeks for an additional fee.

Navigating Travel.State.Gov

To calculate your passport fees on travel.state.gov, start by visiting the website and clicking on “Passports” in the menu bar. From there, select “Fees” and then choose the appropriate option based on your situation (new application or renewal).

Entering Your Information

Once you’ve selected your option, enter your age and indicate if you’re requesting standard or expedited service. If you’re applying for a new passport, also select whether it’s a book or card application.

After entering this information, the website will display your total fees including any additional charges such as execution fees or overnight delivery costs.

Additional Resources

In addition to calculating fees online through travel.state.gov, there are other resources available to help with passport-related questions. The website offers detailed instructions on how to apply for a passport and what forms are required as well as information on where to submit them.

Conclusion:

Obtaining a passport is an essential step in international travel planning and knowing how much it will cost is crucial in budgeting for your trip. By following the steps outlined above, you can easily calculate your passport fees on travel.state.gov and be one step closer to embarking on your next adventure abroad.

This text was generated using a large language model, and select text has been reviewed and moderated for purposes such as readability.

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Avoid scam websites that offer to help you get or renew your passport

Do you need to apply for or renew your passport? If you search online, the top results might show official-looking websites that say they can renew or get you a passport. Some of these websites are private companies that charge you for services that are free on the U.S. Department of State website…while others are scammers trying to take your money and personal information.

Travel.State.Gov is the official government website for passport services.  Some companies registered with the U.S. Department of State charge extra fees to submit your application and pick up your passport if you’re busy or need help. But you won’t get your passport faster than if you applied on your own without the extra cost.

But scammers also set up sites with similar names, flags, and seals, pretending to be affiliated with the government. For $60 to a few hundred dollars (on top of the regular passport fee), they promise to help you get a passport. But if you pay, you’ll lose your money and might be giving your personal information to scammers who could sell it to identity thieves.

To avoid passport scams, know this:

• The  U.S. Department of State is the government agency that handles passport services, but your top online search results might be phony passport application websites. Go directly to  Travel.State.Gov to avoid clicking on a scammy website.
• There’s a charge to get a passport, but the forms to renew or apply are free . Anyone who asks you to pay for forms is a scammer.
• It’s free to set up an appointment if you need a passport to travel right away. The Department of State’s passport agencies and centers don’t charge for appointments, and paying someone to set it up for you won’t get your passport faster.

Contact  [email protected] if you spot a scammy passport application, website, or if you paid someone who turned out to be a scammer. And tell the FTC at  ReportFraud.ftc.gov . Visit  IdentityTheft.gov   if someone has misused your personal information.

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What is the current passport renewal fees?

by Donna (California)

Question: My passport will be expiring this August. Where can I obtain the mailing passport renewal form in northern California? I don't have access to a printer to print out the application form from online. Answer: You can download Form DS-82 and save it on a pen drive. Then, take the pen drive to a copy store to have it printed. You can also complete the form online and then download it and have it printed. Question: I also need to know how much to include for my passport renewal and whether or not a personal check is acceptable? Answer: The current fee for a passport renewal is $110. Personal checks are acceptable. The check should be made out to the "Department of State". You should also print your full name and date of birth on the front of the check. Question: When the application is ready to be mailed, will the local U.S. post office workers be able to offer a traceable delivery service that delivers to PO box address of the passport renewal center? Answer: Yes, the United States post office offers a traceable delivery method to a PO box address. Question: I have travel plans for June to France. Is mailing my passport to renew a good idea? My concern is that my passport document can get lost in the mail and I'll never get to travel. What do I do if my document gets lost? Answer: The use of a traceable delivery method will help ensure that your application for a passport renewal arrives safely to the processing center. You can add $15.45 to the payment for overnight delivery of your new passport. If you follow the instructions above, there should be no problem getting your passport renewed in time for your trip. If the passport is lost, you can report the loss and apply for a new passport. While this is not likely to happen, it can. Therefore, apply early and ensure that your travel document arrives with plenty of time to spare. How to Get a Passport Renewed

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Start Summer with a Bang When You Upgrade to a REAL ID

Contact:  Office of Public Affairs 2415 First Avenue Sacramento, CA 95818 (916) 657–6437 |  [email protected]

Federal air travel requirements will be in place next Fourth of July

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE July 3, 2024

Sacramento – More than 17.7 million Californians now have a REAL ID – an increase of 137,929 from the previous month – according to California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) data.

Just like fireworks light up the sky, Californians can put a spark in their domestic travel plans when they get a REAL ID.

“As we celebrate our nation’s independence during one of the busiest travel weeks of the year, you can help improve your freedom to travel easily by getting a REAL ID,” said DMV Director Steve Gordon. “You’ll need one to travel by plane in the U.S. next year. No need to wait.”

To apply for a REAL ID, Californians should visit  REALID.dmv.ca.gov , fill out the online application and upload their documents. Customers must visit a DMV office and bring their uploaded documents to complete the application. By starting the process online, it should only take about 15 minutes in the office. Customers need to provide:

• Proof of identity* – One original or certified document (example: valid passport, birth certificate) *Legal name change document(s) is required if name on proof of identity is different from the name on the other documents (example: marriage certificate, adoption papers).
• Proofs of California residency – Two documents, paper copies (example: utility bill, bank statement).
• Social Security number (exceptions may apply).

Visit  REALID.dmv.ca.gov  for a complete list of acceptable documents and a link to the online application.

There is no need to wait for the federal enforcement date of May 7, 2025, that requires a REAL ID or other federally approved document to board flights within the United States and access secure federal facilities. Doing it now means more time doing the things you want to do.

Historical REAL ID information:

• Total REAL ID cardholders as of July 1, 2024: 17,702,877
• Total REAL ID cardholders as of June 1, 2024: 17,564,948
• Total REAL ID cardholders as of July 1, 2023: 15,987,502

Online Services

The DMV has taken many steps to offer more digital services. Most DMV tasks do not require an office visit, including simple self-service transactions that are no longer available in offices. The DMV encourages customers to use its  online services  and other service channels to complete transactions, including eligible driver’s license and vehicle registration renewals. Customers can also use the  Service Advisor  on the DMV website to learn their options to complete DMV tasks.

To sign up for paperless vehicle registration and driver’s license renewal notices, customers must sign in or create a secure online account at  dmv.ca.gov , and then opt in.

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Here's when you'll need a Real ID, and how to get one in Missouri

Domestic travel will change next year as the new REAL ID requirements will finally go into effect after the deadline was extended multiple times. Here's everything you need to know to be prepared for the changes actually coming up.

What is a REAL ID?

The REAL ID is an identification card that includes additional security standards above the traditional driver's license or identification card. This new system is a part of implementing the REAL ID Act passed by Congress in 2005 following the 9/11 terrorist attack improving security measures.

A REAL ID will look similar to a regular driver's license or state ID card but will also include a star in the top right corner. Cards that do not comply with REAL ID requirements will have a note "not for REAL ID purposes" in the top right. The REAL ID can be obtained as a driver license, non-driver license and as a permit.

When and why will I need the REAL ID?

Starting May 7, 2025, anyone 18 years or older will need to present a REAL ID to board domestic flights, enter nuclear power plants and access federal facilities, military bases and federal courthouses. According to the Missouri Department of Revenue, you should allow roughly 10-15 days for processing and mailing of your new REAL ID card. The department advises those who may have to fly on or after May 7, 2025, to apply for the card no later than April 1, 2025.

REAL IDs will not be required to drive, vote or register to vote or for any other state purposes. If you do not have a REAL ID by May 7, 2025, but are planning on flying or accessing a federal facility, you can still do so if you present another form of acceptable identification such as a passport or passport card. Children under 18 will not be required to provide a REAL ID when traveling with a companion within the U.S.

What are the requirements for a REAL ID in Missouri?

You can apply for a REAL ID at any Missouri license office. Here is what to bring with you when you apply. You must have documents from each of the categories:

• One identity document with your full name and date of birth such as a valid, unexpired passport, birth certificate, permanent resident card or certificate of citizenship.
• One lawful status document with your full name and date of birth such as a valid, unexpired passport, birth certificate, permanent resident card or certificate of citizenship. Some documents may satisfy both the identity and lawful status requirements.
• One Social Security Number document that cannot be laminated or altered in any way, such as Social Security card, W-2 Form or PayStub with your name and SSN. Those who have a previously verified SSN on file may be eligible to provide their number verbally.
• Two documents from two different sources that include your name and residence address issued within one year. These can include a utility bill, government correspondence or document, insurance policies and medical documents. Only one document of the following categories can be submitted: housing documents (mortgage, rental agreement, deed, homeowner association letter), letter from homeless shelter issued within the previous 90 days, Missouri Safe at Home Program card, driver license renewal postcard or unexpired driver license, instruction permit or postmarked envelopes that also include return address of any well-established business or organization.
• For those who may have changed their name, documents such as a marriage license, divorce decree, adoption papers, amended birth certificate or other court order may be required to verify full legal name and connection to identity and lawful status documents presented.

A comprehensive list of all acceptable documents and an interactive guide of requirements can be found on the DOR website .

More: After record passenger growth, Springfield-Branson National Airport plans for expansion

How much does a REAL ID cost?

If you are getting a REAL ID as part of renewing your driver license or non-driver license, the fees will be the same as if you were getting the non-REAL ID. For a regular driver between the ages of 21 and 69 a Class F driver license costs $27. A license can be renewed as early as six months prior to the expiration date.

But do not fret if your license is not REAL ID compliant and not expiring any time soon. According to the DOR, Missouri law allows for a one-time waiver of the duplicate transaction fees, which would be $19.50, for those who have not been issued a REAL ID license or ID card. The waiver fees do not apply to license office processing fees however.

Marta Mieze covers local government at the News-Leader. Have feedback, tips or story ideas? Contact her at [email protected].