Where to Send Your Passport Address Change

You change your passport address by mailing your current passport to the State Department's passport agency or acceptance facility, along with a form and a new photo. The State Department does not process address changes online or by phone — you must submit the request by mail. The address where you send it depends on whether you need a new passport book or just want to update your records.

If your passport is still valid and you only need to update the address on file, send Form DS-11 (process for a U.S. Passport) or Form DS-82 (U.S. Passport Renewal process) to the address listed on the form itself — usually a regional passport agency in your state. If your passport is expired or damaged, you will need to explore for a replacement, which also updates your address.

The processing time is typically 6 to 8 weeks for routine service and 2 to 3 weeks for expedited service, which costs extra. During this time, the State Department holds your passport, so plan ahead if you have travel scheduled.

Key Takeaways

  • Address changes require mailing your passport to a State Department facility along with the correct form and a new passport photo.
  • Form DS-82 is used for address-only updates on valid passports; Form DS-11 is used if your passport is expired or damaged.
  • Processing takes 6 to 8 weeks for routine service or 2 to 3 weeks if you pay for expedited processing.
  • You cannot update your address without submitting your physical passport by mail — there is no online or phone option.

What Form to Use and What to Include

Form DS-82 is the correct form if your passport is valid and you are only changing your address. You can read it from the State Department website (travel.state.gov). Print it, fill it out completely, and sign it in black or blue ink. Do not sign it before you mail it if the form instructions say to sign it in front of the acceptance agent — read the instructions carefully.

With the form, include your current passport, a new passport photo (2 by 2 inches, taken within the last 6 months), and a check or money order for the fee. The fee for an address change on a valid passport is $130 for a book passport or $100 for a card passport, plus $35 if you choose expedited processing. Include a cover letter with your name, date of birth, and the new address you want on file.

If your passport is expired or damaged, use Form DS-11 instead and include the same items. Form DS-11 requires you to appear in person at a passport acceptance facility, so you cannot mail it — you will need to visit an office near you.

How to Mail Your Passport Safely

Use a mailing method that provides tracking and a signature requirement, such as USPS Priority Mail Express or UPS. Do not use regular mail or a method without tracking. Write "Passport" on the outside of the envelope so postal workers handle it carefully.

Keep a copy of everything you send — the form, the cover letter, and the receipt from your mailing service. If your envelope is lost, you will need proof of what you sent and when. The State Department recommends keeping these copies until you receive your passport back.

Mail your packet to the address listed on the form you are using. Different states have different regional agencies, and the form will tell you which one to use based on where you live or where you plan to pick up your passport.

What Happens After You Mail Your Passport

The State Department will process your request and mail your passport back to you at the address you provided on the form. For routine service, expect 6 to 8 weeks. For expedited service, expect 2 to 3 weeks. These times are measured from the day the State Department receives your packet, not from the day you mail it.

You can check the status of your passport online using the State Department's passport status tool at travel.state.gov. You will need your Social Security number, date of birth, and the last four digits of your phone number. The tool will tell you whether your passport has been received, is being processed, or is ready to be mailed back.

If you do not receive your passport within the expected timeframe, contact the State Department's passport information line at 1-877-487-2778. Have your tracking number from your mailing service ready.

Updating Your Address Without Renewing Your Passport

If you do not want to pay the full fee or wait for processing, you can update your address with the State Department without changing your physical passport. This updates your address in their records but does not change what is printed in your passport book. To do this, fill out Form DS-82 and mail it with your passport, but note in your cover letter that you want an address-only update.

However, most people find it simpler to go ahead and pay the fee to get a new passport with the updated address printed inside. This way, your passport matches your current address, which can prevent confusion at airports or when presenting your passport as identification.

If Your Passport Is Expired or Damaged

If your passport expired more than 5 years ago, or if it is damaged, you cannot use Form DS-82. You must use Form DS-11 and appear in person at a passport acceptance facility. These facilities are located at post offices, libraries, and county clerk offices in most areas. You will need to bring your expired or damaged passport, a new photo, the completed form, and payment.

Appointments are often required, so check the State Department website to find a facility near you and book a time slot. Processing at the acceptance facility usually takes a few hours to a few days, depending on how busy the office is. You will receive your new passport with your updated address at that time.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Do not sign Form DS-82 before mailing it unless the instructions specifically say to do so. Many people sign it at home and then mail it, but the form may require a signature in front of an acceptance agent. Read the current version of the form carefully.

Do not forget to include a new passport photo. The State Department will reject your packet if the photo is missing, expired (more than 6 months old), or does not meet the size and quality requirements. The photo must be 2 by 2 inches, in color, taken against a white background, and show your face clearly.

Do not use regular mail without tracking. If your envelope is lost, you will have no proof that you sent it, and the State Department will not be able to help you locate it. Always use a tracked method and keep your receipt.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I change my passport address online?

No. The State Department does not offer online address changes for passports. You must mail your passport, the correct form, a new photo, and payment to a State Department facility. There is no phone or email option either.

How much does it cost to change my address?

An address change on a valid passport costs $130 for a book or $100 for a card. If you want expedited processing (2 to 3 weeks instead of 6 to 8 weeks), add $35. These fees are current as of 2024 but may change — check travel.state.gov for the most recent amounts.

Do I need a new passport photo for an address change?

Yes. You must include a new passport photo taken within the last 6 months, even if you have a recent photo on file. The photo must be 2 by 2 inches, in color, and meet State Department standards. You can have photos taken at most post offices, pharmacies, and portrait studios.

What if I need my passport before the address change is processed?

If you have travel plans before your passport is returned, you cannot use the address-change process. Instead, you will need to explore for an expedited passport replacement in person at a passport acceptance facility using Form DS-11. This takes 2 to 3 weeks and costs more, but you can receive your passport faster.

Will my old passport address cause problems at the airport?

No. The address printed in your passport is not checked against your current address at airport security or customs. However, if you are using your passport as a form of identification for other purposes, an outdated address may cause confusion. Updating it is a good practice but not urgent for travel.