Has it been 15 or more years since you renewed your passport? You might be wondering if you can still renew an expired passport after all this time. The short answer is no. Once a passport has expired for over 15 years, it is considered too old for renewal. Rather than a passport renewal, you’ll have to apply for a new passport. The process is still straightforward, and The Passport Office can help you complete it quickly!
Why You Can’t Renew a Passport After 15 Years
The U.S. Department of State allows renewals only for adult passports that were valid for 10 years and expired less than 5 years ago. This means if your passport is more than 15 years old, it is no longer eligible for renewal under Form DS-82. Instead, you’ll need to start over as if applying for the first time using Form DS-11.
Documents You’ll Need for a New Passport Application
When your passport is too old to renew, submit a few key documents to apply for a new one:
- Proof of citizenship, such as an original birth certificate or a previously issued U.S. passport
- Proof of identity, like a valid driver’s license or state-issued ID
- A new passport photo that meets official requirements
- Form DS-11, which the applicant must submit in person at an acceptance facility or with the help of a registered passport courier
If you’re unsure whether your documents are valid, The Passport Office team can review them for accuracy before you apply.
How Long Does It Take to Get a New Passport?
Standard passport applications can take several weeks, which can be stressful if you have a trip coming up soon. That’s where expedited services can make a big difference. The Passport Office offers processing times as fast as three business days, depending on your travel date and the type of service you select.
If you don’t have a government appointment or are unable to get one in time, our offices can submit your application via our trusted courier network to expedite the process.
How The Passport Office Helps You Renew an Expired Passport
At The Passport Office, we specialize in helping travelers who need their passports fast! Even if it’s been many years since they last applied. Our team helps you prepare your documents, fill out the correct forms, and submit everything through secure, expedited channels.
You can walk into one of our offices or book an online appointment. We handle all types of passport services, including renewals, replacements, child passports, and name changes.
Final Thoughts
If your passport expired more than 15 years ago, you’ll need to apply for a new one instead of renewing it. The good news is that you don’t have to wait months to get it done. With The Passport Office, you can get your new passport processed quickly and correctly, even if your last one expired long ago.
Visit The Passport Office in one of our Florida, Seattle, or Atlanta locations, or book an appointment online today to start your application.