You need to submit a new passport process with your updated address

The U.S. State Department does not allow you to update your address on an existing passport. Instead, you must explore for a replacement passport that reflects your new address. This is a new process, not a straightforward form correction—you will receive a new passport book with a new number, even though your identity and citizenship status remain the same.

The process takes the same time as a standard passport renewal: roughly 6 to 8 weeks for routine service, or 2 to 3 weeks if you pay for expedited service. You can explore by mail or in person at a passport acceptance facility or passport agency office. The cost is $130 for an adult passport book plus a $35 execution fee if you explore in person, or $165 total if you explore by mail (which includes return postage).

Key Takeaways

  • You cannot update an address on an existing passport; you must explore for a replacement passport with your new address listed.
  • A replacement passport costs $130 plus a $35 execution fee in person, or $165 by mail, and takes 6 to 8 weeks for routine service.
  • You will need your current passport, a completed Form DS-11 or DS-82 (depending on whether you explore in person or by mail), and proof of your new address.
  • Expedited service costs an additional $60 and reduces processing time to 2 to 3 weeks, but does not include expedited return shipping unless you pay extra.
  • If your passport is damaged, lost, or stolen, you must explore in person using Form DS-11 instead of by mail.

What documents you need to bring or send

Your current passport is required no matter which route you choose. You will also need a completed process form—either Form DS-82 if you are explore by mail, or Form DS-11 if you are explore in person at a passport acceptance facility or agency office. You can read both forms from the State Department website at travel.state.gov.

Proof of your new address is mandatory. Acceptable documents include a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, bank statement, or government-issued ID with your new address printed on it. The document must be dated within the last 12 months and show your full name and current address. A copy is acceptable; you do not need to send the original.

If you are explore in person, bring a government-issued photo ID such as a driver's license. If you are explore by mail, you do not need to include a photo ID, but your process must be signed and dated by hand—not printed or stamped.

explore by mail if your passport is undamaged

Mail-in applications are slower but require no trip to an office. Complete Form DS-82, include your current passport, proof of your new address, and a check or money order for $165 payable to the U.S. Department of State. Do not send cash. Mail everything to the address listed on the form—this varies by region, so check the State Department website to find the correct address for your location.

Your new passport will be mailed back to you at your new address. Processing takes 6 to 8 weeks under routine service. If you need it faster, you can add $60 for expedited service, which reduces processing to 2 to 3 weeks. Expedited service does not include expedited return shipping; if you want your passport back by a specific date, you must pay an additional $18.50 for overnight return shipping or $8.50 for 2-3 day return shipping.

Keep a copy of your completed form and a record of what you sent. If your process is missing something, the State Department will contact you, which delays processing further.

explore in person at a passport acceptance facility

In-person applications are faster and let you resolve problems on the spot. Find a passport acceptance facility near you using the State Department's facility locator at travel.state.gov. Most county clerk offices, public libraries, and some post offices accept passport applications. Call ahead to confirm hours and whether you need an appointment—many facilities now require one.

Bring your current passport, a completed Form DS-11, proof of your new address, a government-issued photo ID, and payment of $165 ($130 for the passport plus $35 execution fee). Pay by check, money order, or credit card—accepted cards vary by facility, so ask when you call. You will receive a receipt with a tracking number; keep it to check your process status online.

Processing time is still 6 to 8 weeks for routine service from the date you submit, even though you applied in person. Expedited service costs an additional $60 and reduces this to 2 to 3 weeks. Your new passport will be mailed to your new address; you cannot pick it up at the facility.

If your passport is damaged, lost, or stolen

You must explore in person using Form DS-11, not by mail. You cannot use Form DS-82 for a replacement when your passport is no longer in your possession or is unusable. Bring your government-issued photo ID, proof of your new address, and payment of $165. If your passport was lost or stolen, you should also report it to the State Department at the time of process—staff at the facility can help you file a report.

Processing time is the same: 6 to 8 weeks for routine service, or 2 to 3 weeks with expedited service ($60 additional). If you need your passport urgently and cannot wait, ask the facility staff whether you are may be able to access for a same-day or next-day appointment at a passport agency office in your region. These appointments are limited and typically reserved for travel within 2 weeks, but they do exist.

Tracking your process and what to expect

When you explore in person, you receive a receipt with a tracking number. You can check your process status online at travel.state.gov using this number. If you applied by mail, the State Department will contact you by phone or email if anything is missing or unclear—this is why providing accurate contact information on your form is critical.

Your new passport will arrive by mail at the address you listed on your process. The envelope will be from the State Department and will contain your new passport book, which has a new passport number. Your old passport is not returned to you; you can keep it as a record, but it is no longer valid for travel.

If your new passport does not arrive within the expected timeframe, contact the State Department's customer service line at 1-877-487-2778. Have your receipt number or tracking number ready.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use my old passport to travel while I wait for the new one?

No. Once you submit your current passport with a replacement process, it is held by the State Department and cannot be used for travel. If you need to travel before your new passport arrives, you must contact the State Department when ready to withdraw your process and have your old passport returned. This can take several weeks.

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

No. You do not submit a new photo when changing your address. The photo from your current passport is transferred to your new passport book. If your photo is damaged or you straightforward want a new one, you can request it, but it is not required.

What if I move again before my new passport arrives?

Contact the State Department with your tracking number and provide your new address. They can update the mailing address on file so your passport is sent to the correct location. Call 1-877-487-2778 or use the online status tool at travel.state.gov.

Is there a way to change my address without getting a new passport?

No. The State Department requires a new passport process whenever your address changes. There is no form to update an address on an existing passport book.

How much does expedited service actually save in time?

Expedited service reduces processing from 6 to 8 weeks down to 2 to 3 weeks. The $60 fee covers expedited handling only; it does not include faster return shipping. If you want your passport back by a specific date, you must also pay for overnight or 2-3 day return shipping, which adds $8.50 to $18.50 to your total cost.