US Passport Application Online
ID & DocumentsApply for a new passport, renew your passport, check application status, and find passport acceptance facilities near you.
Difficulty Level
Moderate — May need help first time
Need Help? Call
1-877-487-2778Senior Tip
Renewals can be done entirely by mail if your current passport was issued within the last 15 years and you were 16+ when it was issued. No need to visit an office.
How to Get Started
Go to travel.state.gov
Type travel.state.gov in your browser. This is the official State Department passport site.
Determine if you need a new passport or renewal
If your passport was issued less than 15 years ago and you were 16+, you can renew by mail. Otherwise, apply for a new one.
Fill out the application
For renewals, fill out Form DS-82 online, print it, and mail it with your old passport and a check. For new passports, fill out Form DS-11 and apply in person.
Track your application
Check status online at travel.state.gov. Processing takes 6-8 weeks (routine) or 2-3 weeks (expedited, extra fee).
Common Tasks You Can Do Online
Renew a passport by mail
travel.state.gov > Renew > Form DS-82 > Mail in
Apply for a new passport
travel.state.gov > Apply > Form DS-11 > Find acceptance facility
Check application status
travel.state.gov > Check Status > Enter last name and birth date
Find a passport office near you
travel.state.gov > Acceptance Facilities > Enter zip code
Get an expedited passport
travel.state.gov > Processing Times > Expedited service ($60 extra)
Get a passport card (US borders only)
travel.state.gov > Passport Card > Apply
Troubleshooting
Passport expired — do I start over?▾
If expired less than 5 years and you were 16+, you can still renew by mail. Otherwise, apply as new.
Need a passport urgently▾
Expedited processing is 2-3 weeks. For travel within 14 days, schedule an appointment at a regional passport agency.
Photo was rejected▾
Common reasons: shadows, glasses, wrong background. Get a new photo at a pharmacy (CVS, Walgreens) — they know the requirements.
Name doesn't match documents▾
Include legal name change documents (marriage certificate, court order) with your application.
Accessibility & Phone Help
Call 1-877-487-2778 (TTY: 1-888-874-7793) for assistance. Passport acceptance facilities can accommodate disabilities.
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Safety Reminder
Always check that the website address ends in .gov before entering personal information. Never share your Social Security number, Medicare number, or bank details in response to an unsolicited email, call, or text.