U.S. Passport Renewal Checklist for Dallas Travelers: 2026 Guide

Renewing a U.S. passport is much easier when you know exactly which documents, fees, and forms are required before you start. Dallas and DFW travelers who qualify for Form DS-82 can generally renew without applying again as a first-time applicant.

If you’re preparing for international travel and need passport renewal in Dallas, AA Passport & Visa Expedite Services can help review your application, passport photo, documents, and available processing options before submission.

Quick Answer: What Do You Need to Renew a U.S. Passport?

For most eligible adult renewals, you will need Form DS-82, your most recent U.S. passport, one compliant passport photo, the applicable government fee, and legal name-change documentation if your current name is different from the name printed on your previous passport.

You can generally renew by mail if your most recent passport is available, has not been reported lost or stolen, was issued within the last 15 years, was issued when you were age 16 or older, and is not damaged beyond normal wear.

1. Confirm That You Qualify for Form DS-82

Before preparing your renewal package, make sure you qualify to renew rather than applying in person again.

You normally qualify if your passport:

• can be submitted with your application;
• was never reported lost or stolen;
• was issued within the last 15 years;
• was issued when you were age 16 or older and had normal 10-year validity;
• is not significantly damaged; and
• shows your current name, or you can document your legal name change.

If you do not meet these requirements, you may need to apply in person using Form DS-11 instead.

2. Complete Form DS-82

Eligible applicants renewing by mail use Form DS-82.

Complete all required sections carefully, then sign and date the application. Errors, missing information, incorrect fees, or incomplete documentation can delay processing.

AA Passport can help review your renewal package before it is mailed.

3. Submit Your Current Passport

Your most recent passport must generally be included with a DS-82 mail renewal. The Department of State returns the old passport separately from the new passport, so don’t be concerned if they arrive on different dates.

4. Include One Compliant Passport Photo

A DS-82 renewal requires one passport photo.

The photo should meet current U.S. Department of State standards for size, background, positioning, image quality, and appearance.

Dallas-area travelers can also use AA Passport’s onsite passport photo service before preparing their renewal application.

5. Pay the Correct 2026 Government Fee

As of October 2026, the U.S. Department of State charges:

Eligible DS-82 renewals do not pay the separate $35 acceptance-facility fee that applies to DS-11 applications. AA Passport & Visa service fees are separate from government fees.

6. Choose Routine or Expedited Processing

Current Department of State processing times are approximately:

Routine: 4–6 weeks
Expedited: 2–3 weeks, plus the $60 expedite fee.

Mailing time is additional. The Department of State notes that applications may take up to two weeks to arrive for processing and additional time to be delivered after issuance. Travelers with international travel within 14 calendar days may qualify for an urgent passport-agency appointment.

Don’t Wait Until the Last Minute

Passport validity requirements vary by destination, and many countries expect a passport to remain valid for months beyond the planned travel date. Checking your passport well before booking an international trip can prevent unnecessary problems.

If you need help with Dallas passport renewal, document preparation, passport photos, or expedited options, contact AA Passport & Visa Expedite Services at 972-231-1600.