Traveling with an expired passport isn't an option — but renewing one doesn't have to be stressful! This guide walks you through the steps to renew your passport so you can get back to planning your next adventure with us.
Step 1: Check Your Passport Expiration Date
Before anything else, locate your passport and check the expiration date on the photo page. Keep in mind:
- Many countries require your passport to be valid for at least 6 months beyond your travel dates. This means even a passport that hasn't technically expired yet may not be accepted.
- Check the entry requirements for your specific destination, as rules vary by country.
Step 2: Determine How Much Time You Have
The urgency of your renewal depends on how soon you plan to travel:
- Traveling in 3+ months: A standard renewal should be sufficient.
- Traveling in 6–12 weeks: Consider requesting expedited service.
- Traveling in less than 4 weeks: You may need to schedule an in-person appointment at a regional passport agency or center for urgent/emergency processing.
Step 3: Gather Your Renewal Documents
For a standard U.S. passport renewal (Form DS-82), you will typically need:
- Your most recent expired (or expiring) passport
- A completed Form DS-82 (U.S. Passport Renewal Application)
- One new passport photo (2x2 inches, taken within the last 6 months)
- Payment for renewal fees (check the current fee on travel.state.gov)
- Evidence of your upcoming travel (if requesting expedited or urgent service)
Note: If your passport is more than 15 years old, was issued before age 16, or has been damaged, you will need to apply for a new passport using Form DS-11 and apply in person.
Step 4: Submit Your Application
Depending on your timeline, you have a few options:
Standard Processing (6–8 weeks): Mail your completed DS-82 application to the U.S. Department of State. Processing times can vary, so always check the latest estimates at travel.state.gov.
Expedited Processing (2–3 weeks): Add an expedited fee and mark your envelope/application accordingly. You can also pay for overnight delivery to speed things up further.
Urgent/Emergency Processing (Less than 2 weeks): Schedule an appointment at a regional passport agency. You will need proof of international travel within 14 days (or 28 days if a visa is also required). Appointments can be booked at travel.state.gov.
Step 5: Track Your Application
Once submitted, you can track your passport renewal status online at travel.state.gov using your last name, date of birth, and the last four digits of your Social Security number.
Step 6: Update Your Online Account While You Wait
You don't need to wait until your new passport arrives to update your traveler profile! Here's what you can do now:
Good news: If you are in the process of renewing your passport, you can log in to your online account and update your name using your current passport information — even if you don't yet have your new passport number or expiration date. Simply enter your name as it appears on your existing passport and update the remaining details (passport number and expiration date) once your new passport arrives.
Keep in mind:
- In most cases, the name on your renewed passport will remain the same as your current one. Your name carries over automatically during a standard renewal.
- However, if you have legally changed your name — for example, due to marriage, divorce, or a court order — your new passport will reflect your updated legal name. In this case, please make sure your online account is updated to match your new passport exactly once it arrives.
- It is important that the name in your traveler profile exactly matches the name on your passport to avoid additional costs or any issues with airline ticketing, visa applications, or other travel documentation.
Step 7: Let Us Know
Once your new passport arrives, make sure to:
- Update your passport number and expiration date in your traveler profile or booking.
- Contact us if your new passport reflects a name change — this is important for any visa applications or travel documentation we may be processing on your behalf.
Still Have Questions?
Our team is here to help! If you have concerns about your passport renewal and how it may affect your upcoming tour, please don't hesitate to reach out to us.