Step-by-step guide to passport renewal

Teens 13–17 · How-to · Updated October 1, 2026 · LearnLife Editorial

What do you need before starting your passport renewal?

Before you begin renewing your passport, it’s important to collect all the necessary documents and information. First, you need your most recent U.S. passport, which must have been issued when you were 16 or older, be undamaged, and issued within the last 15 years to qualify for renewal by mail. If your passport doesn’t meet these criteria, you may need to apply as a new applicant instead.

Next, you’ll need a new passport photo. This photo must be in color, 2x2 inches in size, taken within the last six months, with a plain white or off-white background. Your face should be fully visible, with a neutral expression and no hats or glasses. Many drugstores, photo shops, and post offices offer passport photo services, but you can also take your own if you carefully follow the government’s photo rules.

You will also need to complete the passport renewal application form, called Form DS-82. This form is designed specifically for mail-in renewals and is available on official government websites. It asks for basic information like your name, date of birth, contact details, and passport number.

Finally, prepare your payment for the renewal fee, which is typically paid by check or money order made out to “U.S. Department of State.” Keep your payment amount updated by checking official sources, as fees can change. Having all these items ready before starting will make the process smoother and reduce the chance of delays.

What are the step-by-step instructions for renewing a passport?

Renewing your passport involves a clear set of steps to follow carefully:

1. Confirm your passport is eligible for renewal by mail

Check that your current passport was issued when you were at least 16 years old, is undamaged, issued within the last 15 years, and that you can submit it with your application. If any of these aren’t true, you must apply in person instead.

1. Fill out Form DS-82

You can download the form online or get a paper copy from a post office. Print clearly or fill it out digitally and print it. Use black ink and do not sign the form until you are instructed to do so. Follow instructions carefully for each question.

1. Get a recent passport photo

Make sure the photo meets official standards. For example, no smiling or head tilting, eyes open and visible, no shadows, and the photo size must be exactly 2x2 inches. Keep the photo separate; don’t attach it to the form until you mail your application.

1. Gather your current passport and payment

Your old passport must be included because it will be returned to you after cancellation. Attach a check or money order for the correct renewal fee. Write the check payable to “U.S. Department of State.” Don’t send cash.

1. Mail your complete renewal package

Place the completed Form DS-82 (signed), your old passport, passport photo, and payment in an envelope. Use the mailing address listed in the DS-82 instructions. For safety, use a trackable mailing service like USPS Priority Mail or a courier.

1. Track your application status

After mailing, you can check your passport renewal status online by entering your details on the official website. This helps you stay informed and know when your new passport is being processed or mailed.

Following these steps carefully helps avoid common mistakes and processing delays.

How can you tell if your passport renewal worked?

When your passport renewal is successful, you will receive your new passport by mail. It will come in a padded envelope to protect it. Alongside the new passport, your old passport will be returned with holes punched through it to show it is no longer valid. This cancellation method prevents confusion when traveling.

Check your new passport immediately to make sure all information is correct, including your name, date of birth, expiration date, and passport number. If you see any mistakes, contact the passport agency right away.

You might also receive an email or letter confirming your passport has been issued and mailed. If you used a tracking service for mailing your application, you can watch your package’s progress to know when to expect your new passport.

If you don’t receive your passport within the expected processing time or get a letter asking for more information, act quickly. Respond to any requests and verify your application details to avoid further delays.

What should you do if your passport renewal goes wrong?

Sometimes, passport renewals don’t go as planned. If your application is rejected or delayed, carefully read any letters or emails you get from the passport agency. Common issues include:

• Missing or incorrect signature on the form
• Passport photo not meeting standards (size, background, expression)
• Payment issues (incorrect amount or wrong payee)
• Damaged or missing old passport
• Incomplete or incorrect application form

If you find a mistake, you may need to send in a corrected application. For example, if your photo is rejected, get a new one and resubmit. If your payment bounced, resend with the correct payment method.

If your old passport is lost or damaged, you cannot renew by mail. Instead, apply in person as a new applicant, providing proof of citizenship and identity.

For urgent travel, you can request expedited processing for an additional fee. This often requires visiting a passport agency in person or scheduling an appointment.

If you feel stuck or unsure, contact the National Passport Information Center for help. They can guide you on next steps and explain what documents you may need. In some cases, visiting a passport acceptance facility in person with a parent or guardian can clarify requirements.

How can teens adapt the passport renewal process?

As a teen between 13 and 17, renewing a passport might feel tricky, but it’s manageable with some planning. If your current passport meets renewal rules, you can often renew by mail on your own. However, because you may be under 18, involving a parent or guardian can be helpful, especially if you are unsure about the forms or payment.

If you are under 16 or your passport doesn’t qualify for mail renewal, you must apply in person. This means going to a passport acceptance facility, like a post office or courthouse, with a parent or guardian who can provide consent and identification.

When filling out Form DS-82, make sure to use your current legal name exactly as it appears on your passport. Double-check each field and read instructions carefully. For example, when asked for your social security number, fill it in correctly.

Organize your materials before mailing. Use a checklist like this:

• Completed, signed Form DS-82
• Your current passport
• One recent passport photo (2x2 inches)
• Payment (check or money order)
• A trackable mailing envelope

If you’re turning 18 soon and your passport expires around your birthday, check special rules for renewing passports at 18. You may need to apply as an adult instead of using the renewal form.

Why is renewing your passport on time important?

Renewing your passport well before it expires helps avoid last-minute stress and extra fees. Many countries require your passport to be valid for at least six months after your planned return date. If your passport expires too soon, you might be denied boarding or entry.

For example, if you plan a summer trip and your passport expires in a few months, renewing it now ensures you won’t lose your vacation or miss school trips. Waiting until the last minute can mean paying extra for expedited processing or missing deadlines.

A valid passport is also a key form of identification. It helps you prove your citizenship and identity for things like job applications or applying for other documents.

Planning ahead by renewing early can give you peace of mind and time to fix any problems that might come up during the process.

What resources can help you with passport renewal?

To make passport renewal easier, use official resources. The U.S. Department of State website offers the latest renewal forms, photo requirements, fees, and detailed instructions. USA.gov provides clear, step-by-step guides and answers to common questions.

Many local post offices, libraries, and government offices serve as passport acceptance facilities where you can ask questions or apply in person if needed. Some even offer passport photo services.

If you experience issues or have questions, the National Passport Information Center is a helpful phone and online resource to reach out to.

Parents or guardians can support teens during renewal by reviewing forms and helping organize materials.

Additionally, reading articles on common passport mistakes can help you avoid errors that cause delays. If you’re turning 18 soon, consulting special guidance on passport renewal at 18 can prepare you for changes in the process.

Keeping your passport current is a great life skill that helps open doors for travel, study, and opportunities.

Frequently asked questions

Can I renew my passport if it was issued when I was under 16?

No. Passports issued before age 16 cannot be renewed by mail. You must apply in person as a new applicant with additional documents and parental consent.

How long does passport renewal usually take?

Standard processing generally takes several weeks. Check the official State Department site for current times. Expedited processing is available for an extra fee for faster service.

What if I lost my old passport and need to renew?

You cannot renew by mail without your old passport. You must apply in person as a new applicant, submitting proof of citizenship, identity, and other documents.

Can a teen renew a passport alone?

If eligible for mail renewal, teens can usually renew on their own. For applicants under 16 or first-time applications, parental involvement is required.

What are the photo requirements for passport renewal?

Photos must be 2x2 inches, recent (within 6 months), in color, with a plain white background. Your face should be directly facing the camera with a neutral expression, no glasses or hats.

Where can I get the passport renewal form?

The renewal form (DS-82) is available on the U.S. Department of State website and many post offices.