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🔄 Passport Renewal Guide 2026

How to Renew Your US Passport in 2026

Full guide to renewing by mail or online — including the exact photo requirements and how to get yours done in 2 minutes at home.

Get Your Renewal Photo Now

Can You Renew Your Passport Online in 2026?

Yes — the US State Department has rolled out an online passport renewal pilot program for eligible adults. As of 2026, online renewal is available for adults 25+ whose most recent passport was issued when they were 16 or older, is less than 15 years old, and is undamaged.

💡 Online renewal: The digital renewal process requires uploading a digital passport photo — a JPEG file between 600×600 and 1200×1200 pixels, under 10MB. PassportSnap outputs the correct format automatically.

Passport Renewal — Step by Step (Mail)

1

Check if you qualify for mail renewal

Your current passport must be less than 15 years old, issued after your 16th birthday, not damaged, and your name should match (or you have court documents).

2

Take a new passport photo

You need a new 2×2 inch photo — your old photo on your expired passport is not reusable. Take yours at home with PassportSnap.

3

Complete Form DS-82

Download DS-82 from travel.state.gov. Fill it out and sign it (you can sign DS-82 unlike DS-11).

4

Mail your application

Include: signed DS-82, your most recent passport, one passport photo, name change documentation if applicable, and payment. Use a traceable mail service.

5

Wait for processing

6–8 weeks routine, 2–3 weeks expedited. Track at travel.state.gov/passport.

Get Your Renewal Photo in 2 Minutes

Don't let the photo delay your renewal. Create a compliant 2×2 inch photo at home right now.

Create Your Passport Photo — Free

Renewal Photo Requirements

RequirementSpecification
Size2 × 2 inches (51 × 51 mm)
BackgroundWhite or off-white
RecencyTaken within last 6 months
GlassesNot permitted
ExpressionNeutral, mouth closed
Digital (online renewal)JPEG, 600–1200px, under 10MB
⚠️ Can't reuse your old photo: Even if your appearance hasn't changed, you must submit a new photo taken within the last 6 months. Your expired passport photo is not accepted.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does passport renewal cost in 2026?
Mail renewal costs $130. Expedited adds $60. Online renewal may have different fees — check travel.state.gov for current pricing. Photo cost is separate.
Can I use my old passport photo for renewal?
No. All renewals require a new photo taken within the last 6 months. This applies even if you look the same as your previous photo.
How long is a renewed passport valid?
Renewed US passports are valid for 10 years from the issue date for adults (16+) and 5 years for minors under 16.

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