How long does it take to renew your passport?

The normal processing time for renewing a U.S. passport is four to six weeks after submitting an application by mail, as of 2015. The expedited processing time is three weeks, and if the application is submitted through an agency, time can be cut to eight business days, based on need.

Eligible individuals can apply by mail after filling out the DS-82 form online. They must meet the following requirements: the most recent U.S. passport is undamaged and can be submitted with the application, was issued when the passport holder was 16 years or older, was issued in the last 15 years, and was issued in the applicant’s current name or there is a legal document showing the name change.