# Travel >> Travel Preparation >> Passports

How to Expedite an Expired Passport

United States passports expire every 10 years. When yours expires, or is close to expiring, you need to renew it. To renew your passport you have to fill out the renewal form provided by the U.S. Department of State and mail it in. It takes six to eight weeks to process the renewal of your passport, which is inconvenient for travelers looking to make an international trip within that time frame. Fortunately, the U.S. Department of State offers an expedited service for passport renewals, which cuts the processing time from six to eight weeks to two to three weeks.

Instructions

- 1
  Obtain and fill out form DS-82, the application used to renew your U.S. Passport. Fill out Form DS-82 in its entirety to ensure your renewal is not delayed or denied.
- 2
  Include two passport photos with your application. Photos must be less than six months old, of only your face against a white background and you must not wear any uniforms or non-prescription glasses in your photos. Photos must be color and only 2 inches by 2 inches in size.
- 3
  Visit your local Passport Acceptance Facility to mail your application. Mail your application, photos, current passport and a check for $110, which is the renewal fee as of 2010.
- 4
  Inform the clerk at the Passport Acceptance Facility you wish to expedite the handling of your passport, which costs an additional $60. Your application and payment is mailed and your new passport will arrive to your home in three weeks or less.