U.S. Passports for Senior Citizens: What Older Adults Need to Know Before Traveling Abroad

If you’re a senior citizen planning to travel abroad, getting a valid passport is your first step. Whether you’re renewing an expired passport or applying for one for the first time, the process of getting a passport for senior citizens can raise a few questions, such as:

• Is my passport still valid if I haven’t traveled in a long time?
• Can I renew by mail?
• Do I qualify for any discounts?

While the passport application process is generally the same for all adults, older travelers should keep a few important things in mind. In this guide, I’ll cover everything senior citizens need to know about passports, including answers to the questions above and some often-overlooked tips to help you travel safely and with confidence.

How Long Is a Passport Valid for Seniors?

If you haven’t travelled in a long time, start by making sure your passport is valid. Just like other adults (16 and older), passports for seniors are valid for 10 years. 

There are no validity exceptions for seniors, so whether you’re planning to travel once or several times, it’s always a good idea to keep your passport up to date. Renew it well in advance, and it’ll always be ready for when the next adventure comes your way.

Pro Tip: Start your passport renewal process at least 3-6 months before your planned trip. This ensures you have enough time for any unexpected delays. Read my blog post: Never Let Your Passport Expire Again With This Easy Hack for tips on how to keep your passport valid.

Passport Renewal Made Easy for Seniors

If you’re over 60 and haven’t traveled in a while, your passport may have expired. The good news? You might not have to visit a passport office in person. Whether you are renewing your passport before its expiration or you are renewing your expired passport, you may be able to renew by mail.

You can renew your passport by mail if:

• Your previous passport is undamaged,
• It was issued when you were age 16 or older,
• It was issued within the last 15 years, and
• Your current passport is in your possession.

If it’s been more than 15 years since your last passport, your passport is missing, or your current passport is damaged, you’ll need to apply in person at a passport acceptance office. To find a passport acceptance office nearest you, visit our page: Find a Walk-In Passport Office Near Me.

For complete steps on how to renew your passport in any scenario, please see our Passport Renewal Guide.

Do Seniors Qualify for a Discount on Passport Fees?

No. Unfortunately, the U.S. Department of State does not offer any age-based discounts on passport fees. All adult applicants, whether you’re 18 or 88, pay the same standard fees:

• $130 for a passport book
• $30 for a passport card
• $35 execution fee (for first-time applicants)

However, if you’re renewing your passport by mail using Form DS-82, you can avoid paying the execution fee, saving you $35. See our article with video: Form DS-82: Application for Passport Renewal by Mail for instructions on how to complete this form.

Important Tips for Senior Citizens Before International Travel

There are a few often overlooked factors that all international travellers should consider while planning their trip abroad. In this section, I’ll cover important factors like medical considerations while travelling, how to navigate applying for a passport in person with accommodations, how to avoid scams that target senior citizens, and a few tips for applicants who aren’t confident in technology.

Medical Considerations for International Travel

As a senior citizen, it’s important to consider health-related factors when traveling abroad. While you must consider your personal health needs, such as prescription medications, some countries may have specific health requirements, and it’s essential to be prepared and plan ahead. Before your trip abroad, plan for:

• Vaccinations: Some countries require vaccinations for entry. To find out if your destination(s) require specific vaccinations for entry, check the CDC Travel Guidelines for the latest recommendations.
• Medications: Carry a list of all your medications, including dosage and any medical conditions.
  • Important: If you’re traveling with controlled substances, be sure to carry a doctor’s note.
• Travel Insurance: Accidents, issues, and cancellations happen. Consider purchasing travel insurance with medical coverage for your time abroad. Many providers offer specific international travel insurance of seniors at special rates and with senior-specific policies.

For even more travel advice, see Sheldon’s blog post: International Travel Safety Tips for U.S. Citizens Traveling Abroad.

Mobility and Accessibility at Passport Offices

If required to submit the passport application in person, some senior citizens may find it difficult to wait in long lines or navigate crowded government buildings. To make your experience a smooth one, I highly recommend that you:

• Schedule an Appointment: Many post offices and passport acceptance facilities now require an appointment, so it’s best to schedule ahead. This will also help avoid a longer wait time that can occur if you walk in without an appointment.
  • For help, please see our complete guide with video: Schedule a Passport Appointment Online: Routine & Expedited Service.  
• Ask About ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) Accommodations: Call ahead to inquire about accessibility options at your local passport acceptance facility before you visit. Under the ADA, most locations allow the applicant to bring someone to help.
  • For more details about accommodations and applying for a passport with a disability, visit the U.S. Department of State’s website page: Applying with a Disability.
• Urgent Expedited Services: If you’re traveling abroad due to a medical or family emergency, you may qualify for urgent expedited service at a Regional Passport Agency. For more on how to expedite your passport, visit our Urgent Expedited Service Guides:
  • How to Get an Urgent First-Time Passport in 2 Weeks or Less
  • How to Get an Urgent Passport Renewal in 2 weeks or Less
• Use a Registered Expediting Service: If mobility is an issue, you are unable to have someone accompany you to your appointment, or you would prefer a professional to apply for your passport on your behalf, consider hiring a registered passport courier to expedite your passport application.
  • Visit our page to see our choices for the Top Passport Expediting Services—all vetted and trusted.

Scams Targeting Senior Citizens

Unfortunately, seniors are often targeted by scams and identity theft, particularly when it comes to passport services. To help you navigate these potential scams, here are ways to protect yourself and your personal documents:

• Only Use Official Resources: Use trusted sites like travel.state.gov to handle your passport application or renewal. You can use our site, U.S. Passport Service Guide, for helpful passport guides and travel tips.
• Do NOT Share Personal Info: Never share your personal details with unsolicited callers, over text messages, or through emails claiming to offer passport services. If you need to speak with someone about your passport application or ask questions about the process, ONLY call the National Passport Information Center at 1-877-487-2778. And if you are using a trusted passport expediting service, make sure that you only call and answer the phone number listed for that specific company.
• Beware of Third-Party “Expediters”: Avoid third-party services that charge exorbitant fees without providing faster service. Always make sure you’re working with a reputable source. To help, see our list of Top Passport Expediting Services—all vetted and trusted.

For more information on how to protect your identity and avoid common passport scams, check out our Passport Scam Prevention Tips.

Technology Tips for Tech-Shy Travelers

Many seniors are confident with technology, but if you’re not as comfortable, don’t worry. Here’s how to get the help you need without getting overwhelmed by all those downloading and uploading application requirements:

• Online Applications: Passport applications and renewals often involve online forms. While you can renew your passport through the online-only application, you can also choose to download and print your application, then fill it out by hand and mail it in.
  • For more information and a step-by-step guide, see: Comparing U.S. Passport Renewal: Online vs. Renewal by Mail. If you’re still unsure, you can get help at a local library, senior center, or from a family member or friend who’s a bit more tech-savvy.
• Passport Photos: Passport photos must adhere to a specific set of requirements. If you or someone you know feels confident in taking your photo at home, be sure to read Sheldon’s blog post: Why a Passport Photo Gets Rejected: Mistakes to Avoid, so that your application does not get delayed. Otherwise, we highly recommend using a passport photo service near you. 
• Passport Photo Uploads for Online Applications: If you are submitting your passport application online, you must upload the photo with your application form. The directions on how to do so can be found here: Comparing U.S. Passport Renewal: Online vs. Renewal by Mail under Step 6: Upload Your Digital Photo. If you are still unsure about this step, find someone who can help you at a local community center, a family member, or a friend.
• Helpful Resources: Our website, U.S. Passport Service Guide, and our USPSG Blog provide many easy-to-follow, step-by-step guides for each part of the passport process, from application and submission to tracking your application status. Plus, we try to offer helpful advice to help you navigate any problems that may occur during the process.

It’s Never Too Late to Explore the World!

A passport is more than just a travel document—it’s your gateway to new adventures and lasting memories. If you’re a senior citizen dreaming of exploring the world, don’t let paperwork and processing intimidate you or hold you back! With a little preparation and the right resources, you can navigate the process with ease and confidence, and get out there and see the world!

At U.S. Passport Service Guide, we’ve been helping U.S. citizens navigate the passport process with ease for over 20 years. Whether it’s your first trip abroad or your fiftieth, we’re always here to help!

Safe travels,

Laura