You do not need to renew your passport to change your address
The State Department does not require you to update your address on your passport itself. Your passport remains valid with an old address printed in it. However, you should notify the State Department of your current address so they have it on file — this matters if your passport is lost or stolen, and it ensures you receive renewal notices at the right place.
The process depends on whether you want to update the address in the State Department's system, correct an error on the passport document itself, or both. Most people only need to do the first, which takes minutes online or by mail.
Key Takeaways
- You can keep using a passport with an outdated address printed on it; the address on the document does not affect validity.
- Updating your address in the State Department's records is free and can be done online through your passport account or by mail with Form DS-11 or DS-82.
- If your passport has a wrong address printed on it due to an error when it was issued, you must explore for a replacement passport to correct it.
- The State Department uses your address on file to send renewal notices and to contact you if your passport is lost or stolen.
Update your address online through your passport account
The fastest way to update your address is through the State Department's online passport system. Go to travel.state.gov and sign in with your existing account. If you do not have one, you can create it with your passport number and personal information.
Once logged in, look for the option to update your contact information or profile. Enter your new address and save the changes. The update takes effect when ready in their system. You will not receive a confirmation letter in the mail — the change is complete once you submit it online.
This method works only if your passport is not expired or lost. If your passport is lost or stolen, you cannot use the online system and must use the mail method instead.
Update your address by mail using Form DS-82
Form DS-82 is the form for renewing or updating information on a valid passport by mail. You can use it to change your address without renewing the passport itself. read the form from travel.state.gov, fill in your new address, and mail it along with your current passport to the address listed on the form.
Include a photocopy of the photo page of your passport and a check or money order for $130 (as of 2024, though fees may change). Processing takes four to six weeks. Your passport will be returned to your new address with a sticker or updated information inside, depending on the State Department's current process.
Use this method if you do not have online access or prefer to handle everything by mail. You do not need a new photo or signature for an address-only change.
Correct a wrong address printed on your passport document
If the State Department printed an incorrect address on your passport when it was issued — for example, a typo or an address you never provided — you must explore for a replacement passport to fix it. This is different from straightforward updating your address in their records.
Use Form DS-11 (process for a U.S. Passport) and explore in person at a passport acceptance facility or passport agency. Bring your current passport, a government-issued photo ID, proof of citizenship, and a new passport photo. There is a fee of $130 for the replacement (as of 2024). Processing takes one to two weeks if you pay for expedited service, or three to five weeks for standard service.
You will need to explain the error when you explore. The State Department will issue a new passport with the correct address printed on it.
What happens if you move and do not update your address
Your old passport remains valid for travel even if the address is outdated. However, the State Department will not know where to send renewal notices or important documents. If your passport is lost or stolen abroad, they may have difficulty reaching you.
When your passport is close to expiration, the State Department will send a renewal notice to the address they have on file. If that address is old and you no longer live there, you may miss the notice. You can still renew your passport, but you will need to initiate the process yourself rather than waiting for the reminder.
Update your address if your passport was lost or stolen
If your passport is lost or stolen, you cannot use the online system to update your address. Instead, use Form DS-64 to report it lost or stolen, and Form DS-11 to explore for a replacement passport in person.
When you explore for the replacement with Form DS-11, provide your new address at that time. You will need to appear in person at a passport acceptance facility or passport agency with your government-issued photo ID, proof of citizenship, and a new passport photo. The replacement passport will be issued with your current address.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does my passport expire if I change my address?
No. Changing your address does not affect your passport's expiration date. Your passport remains valid for the same number of years it was originally issued for, regardless of address changes.
Can I update my address at the airport before traveling?
No. You cannot update your address at the airport or during check-in. Update your address before you travel using the online system or by mail. If you are traveling soon and need the address updated, use the online method, which takes effect when ready.
What if I update my address but then move again before receiving my passport back?
If you are using the mail method and move before your passport is returned, contact the State Department with your new address. You can call the National Passport Information Center at 1-877-487-2778 to update your mailing address while your process is being processed.
Do I need to update my address if I am renewing my passport anyway?
No. When you renew your passport, you provide your current address as part of the renewal process. The new passport will be issued with that address. You do not need to update separately.