Finding an expired passport before an international trip does not always mean you have to start the passport application process from the beginning. Many adults with expired U.S. passports can still renew using Form DS-82, provided the previous passport meets the U.S. Department of State’s eligibility requirements.
The most important factors are when your passport was issued, your age when it was issued, its physical condition, and whether you still have it. For Dallas and DFW travelers, knowing these requirements before applying can help prevent unnecessary delays.
If you need help reviewing your renewal documents, AA Passport & Visa Expedite Services can assist with the U.S. Passport Renewal process before submission.
Can You Renew an Expired U.S. Passport?
Yes. An expired passport can often be renewed by mail using Form DS-82.
According to the U.S. Department of State, you may generally renew by mail when your most recent passport:
- Can be submitted with your application
- Has not been reported lost or stolen
- Is not significantly damaged
- Was issued within the last 15 years
- Was issued when you were age 16 or older
- Was valid for 10 years
- Shows your current name, or you can document a legal name change
For a standard 10-year adult passport, the 15-year issuance rule generally means a passport that expired less than about five years ago may still qualify for DS-82 renewal.
When Is an Expired Passport Too Old to Renew?
This is where many applicants become confused.
The Department of State looks at the passport’s issue date, not simply whether the passport has expired.
If your most recent passport was issued more than 15 years ago, you are generally not eligible to renew it using Form DS-82. Instead, you must apply again using Form DS-11 at an authorized passport acceptance facility.
For example, if an adult passport was issued more than 15 years ago, keeping the old passport does not make it eligible for normal mail renewal.
If DS-11 is required, our New U.S. Passport service can help you understand the application requirements before your appointment.
What Documents Do You Need for Expired Passport Renewal?
For an eligible DS-82 renewal, you will generally need:
Your Most Recent U.S. Passport
You must submit your most recent passport with the renewal application.
Form DS-82
Complete the current U.S. Passport Renewal Application for Eligible Individuals carefully and make sure the information matches your supporting documents.
A New Passport Photo
Submit a recent color passport photo that meets current U.S. passport photo requirements.
Name Change Documentation, If Applicable
If the name on your expired passport is different from your current legal name, you may need an original or certified document such as a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order.
Correct Government Fee
The required fee depends on whether you are requesting a passport book, passport card, or both.
Missing information, an incorrect photo, missing fees, or a passport issued more than 15 years ago can cause the Department of State to request additional information and delay processing.
Expired Passport Renewal Fees in 2026
As of October 2026, the U.S. Department of State lists these government fees for eligible adult DS-82 renewals:
| Renewal Type | Government Fee |
|---|---|
| Passport Book | $130 |
| Passport Card | $30 |
| Passport Book + Card | $160 |
| Expedited Service | +$60 |
| Optional 1–3 Day Return Delivery | +$26.87 |
The 1–3 day return-delivery option applies to passport books mailed to eligible U.S. addresses and does not apply to passport cards.
These are U.S. government fees and are separate from any AA Passport & Visa professional service fees.
What If I Have to Use DS-11?
For an adult passport book submitted using DS-11, the current government fees are:
$130 application fee + $35 acceptance fee = $165
Additional expedited or delivery fees may apply if selected.
How Long Does Expired Passport Renewal Take?
Current Department of State processing estimates are:
Routine service: 4–6 weeks
Expedited service: 2–3 weeks
These processing times do not include mailing time. The Department of State notes that mailing can add additional time before and after processing.
If your trip is approaching, do not calculate your application deadline based only on the processing estimate.
Can You Renew an Expired Passport Online?
Some eligible adults can renew online.
The Department of State currently states that online renewal may be available if, among other requirements:
- You are at least 25 years old
- Your previous passport was valid for 10 years
- It expires within one year or expired less than five years ago
- You are not changing certain personal information
- You are located in a U.S. state or territory when applying
- You are not traveling internationally for at least six weeks
- You do not need expedited processing
Online renewal cannot currently be expedited.
If your travel is closer, another renewal method may be more appropriate.
What If the Expired Passport Is Lost or Damaged?
A passport that you cannot submit because it has been lost or stolen does not qualify for normal DS-82 renewal.
If your passport was lost or stolen, follow the replacement process instead. You can also review our guide on what to do if your passport is lost before international travel or visit our Lost and Stolen Passport service.
A substantially damaged passport may also require an in-person DS-11 application rather than normal renewal.
Should You Wait Until Your Passport Expires?
Usually, no.
Many destinations require a passport to remain valid for a specific period beyond the date of travel. Waiting until the last minute can limit your options and create unnecessary stress if additional documentation is requested.
If you know international travel is coming, check your passport’s expiration date early and begin the renewal process with enough time for processing and mailing.
Get Help With Expired Passport Renewal in Dallas
Expired passport renewal can be straightforward when you qualify for DS-82, but using the wrong form or overlooking an eligibility requirement can delay your application.
AA Passport & Visa Expedite Services helps travelers in Dallas, Richardson, and throughout the DFW area review passport renewal requirements, documents, photos, and expedited options.
For assistance with your renewal, call 972-231-1600 or visit our Passport Renewal service page.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I renew a passport that expired five years ago?
Possibly. An adult passport may qualify for DS-82 renewal if it was issued within the last 15 years and meets the other renewal requirements. Because adult passports are normally valid for 10 years, the issue date is important when determining eligibility.
Do I have to apply in person if my expired passport is too old?
Generally, yes. If your most recent passport was issued more than 15 years ago, you normally need to apply using Form DS-11 at an authorized passport acceptance facility rather than renewing with DS-82.
How much does it cost to renew an expired U.S. passport?
For an eligible adult DS-82 renewal, the current government fee is $130 for a passport book, $30 for a passport card, or $160 for both. Expedited service costs an additional $60.
How long does an expired passport renewal take?
Current processing is approximately 4–6 weeks for routine service and 2–3 weeks for expedited service, excluding mailing time. Travelers should allow additional time before their departure date.
Can AA Passport help me determine which passport form I need?
Yes. AA Passport & Visa can help Dallas and DFW travelers review whether their expired passport may qualify for renewal and identify the documents needed for their situation. Call 972-231-1600 for assistance.
