Staring at your expired U.S. passport and wondering whether to renew it or start all over with a new one? It’s a common question, and the answer really depends on your specific circumstances.
Let’s walk through the differences between renewing and applying for a new passport. I’ll help you weigh the pros and cons so you can make an informed decision that saves you time, money, and aggravation.
Ready to figure out the best move for your travel plans? Let’s get started!
Table of Contents
Renewing an Expired Passport: When Is It Possible?
Thinking about renewing your expired passport? It’s usually simpler than starting from scratch with a new application, but it’s not always an option.
Here’s how to tell if you can renew your passport:
- Age at Issue: You were 16 or older when your passport was issued.
- Recency of Issue: Your passport was issued within the last 15 years.
- Condition of Passport: It’s undamaged, and you can submit it with your application.
This means that even if your passport expired up to 5 years ago, you might still be in the clear to renew it—as long as you still have it (read: it’s not lost or stolen) and it’s in good shape (not sure? Check our Complete Damaged Passport Replacement Guide).
If you meet these requirements, you’ve got a couple of choices for how to renew: by mail or online. Not sure which to choose? Take a look at our guide, Comparing U.S. Passport Renewal: Online vs. Renewal by Mail, to help decide the best option for you.
When Should You Apply for a New Passport?
If renewing your passport isn’t an option, you’ll need to apply for a new one.
Here are a few situations where starting fresh with a new passport is necessary:
- Time Frame: Your last passport was issued more than 15 years ago.
- Age at Issue: You were under 16 years old when it was issued.
- Name Change: Your name has changed since your passport was last issued.
- Condition of Passport: The passport is damaged, lost, or stolen.
To get a new passport, you’ll have to visit a passport acceptance facility in person and pay a $35 execution fee on top of the standard application fees.
Although applying for a new passport involves a few more steps than a renewal, it’s your only option if your old passport isn’t eligible for renewal.
Key Differences Between Renewal and New Applications
Both renewing your passport and applying for a new one come with their share of paperwork, fees, and the inevitable passport photo. But here’s the scoop on the key differences between the two:
Passport Renewal vs. New Application Comparison at a Glance
| Criteria | Renewing an Expired Passport | Applying for a New Passport |
| Eligibility |
– Issued within the last 15 years – Age 16+ at issuance – Undamaged |
– Issued over 15 years ago – Under age 16 at issuance – Lost/Stolen or Damaged |
| Application Form | DS-82 | DS-11 |
| Submission Method | Mail or Online | In-person or at a passport acceptance facility |
| In-Person Visit Required | No | Yes |
| Processing Time (Standard) | 4-6 weeks | 4-6 weeks |
| Processing Time (Expedited) | 2-3 weeks | 2-3 weeks |
| Fees | Application fee only | Application fee + $35 execution fee |
| Additional Requirements & Supporting Documents | Submit most recent passport and name change (if applicable) | Submit proof of citizenship and name change (if applicable) |
Choosing the Right Option for Your Travel Needs
Deciding whether to renew your passport or apply for a new one really boils down to two key questions:
- How soon do you need your passport, and
- Do you qualify for renewal?
Here’s a quick tip: If you’ve got a trip coming up in the next few months and your passport is still within the renewal window, go for the renewal. It’s generally quicker and cheaper—a real win when you’re juggling travel plans and budgets.
On the flip side, if your passport expired over 15 years ago, or if your name has changed since it was last issued (hello, newlyweds and anyone else who’s switched things up!), you’ll likely need to start fresh with a new passport application. While it might take a bit longer, getting a new passport is a clean slate for your travels abroad.
Using an Expedited Service for Faster Processing
Need your passport yesterday? When time isn’t on your side, expedited services are your new best friend. Whether you’re renewing an old passport or applying for a new one, opting for expedited processing can slash your wait time from the standard 4-6 weeks down to just 2-3 weeks.
And for those really in a crunch, consider this: Booking an appointment at a Regional Passport Agency or enlisting the help of a professional passport expediting service to submit your application on your behalf could be your golden ticket. These services can get a passport in your hands in a few days or even as quickly as 24 hours. Perfect for anyone who needs to travel ASAP but can’t spare the time to navigate the usual channels.
FAQs
Q: Should I renew my expired passport or apply for a new passport? (Tim from Davenport, IA)
A: If your passport was issued within the last 15 years, when you were 16 or older, and it’s in good shape (not too beat up!), renewing it by mail or online is your best bet. If it doesn’t meet these conditions, you’ll need to apply for a new passport.
Q: Do I have to submit my most recent passport when I renew, or can I submit a prior passport that [has] expired? I would like to be able to use my current passport until I receive my new one. (Simone from Rochester, NY)
A: When you’re renewing, you need to send in your most recently issued passport, even if that means being without it for a short while. Unfortunately, you can’t travel with an expired passport, so plan accordingly. If you’re in a rush, book an appointment at a Regional Passport Agency or hire a registered passport courier to cut down the wait time and get your passport in as little as 24 hours.
Q: Can I renew my passport early before it expires? (S. Brule from Cody, WY)
A: Renewing your passport early is a smart move, especially if you’ve got some international travel on the horizon. Some countries require your passport to have at least 6 months of validity for entry, so be sure your passport has enough validity to keep your trip abroad problem-free.
- Check out our related post: Renew on Time: When is the Last Day to Renew Your Passport?
Q: What documents do I need if I’m applying for a new passport due to a name change? (Carlina from Burlingame, KS)
A: For a name change, you’ll need to fill out Form DS-11, bring your expired passport, and provide legal proof of your name change, like a marriage certificate.
Q: How long does it take to get a new passport or renew an expired passport? (Rick T. from Grand Marais, MN)
A: Normally, routine processing takes about 4-6 weeks. If you’re in a pinch, expedited service can speed this up to 2-3 weeks. For the fastest turnaround, a Regional Passport Agency or a registered expediting service can work wonders, especially if you’re short on time.
Q: Do I need to submit my most recent passport when renewing? (Ellia from Taos, NM)
A: Yes, you’ll need to submit your most recent passport when renewing. Older passports won’t be accepted for the renewal process.
Plan Ahead to Avoid Travel Delays
Whatever route you decide—renewal or a brand-new passport—the key is to plan ahead. Remember, passport processing times can vary, and they often stretch out during peak travel periods.
By understanding the process, current processing times, and any associated fees—whether you’re renewing or applying for a new passport you can dodge any potential headaches. This way, you can sail through the passport process and put all your energy into the exciting parts—like planning your next great adventure!
Safe travels,
Laura
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