To renew a passport in North Carolina (NC), follow these main steps:
- Eligibility: You can renew by mail or online if your previous passport:
- Is undamaged and in your possession.
- Was issued when you were age 16 or older.
- Was issued within the last 15 years.
- Was issued in your current name or you have legal proof of name change.
- Required Documents:
- Your most recent passport.
- Completed DS-82 Passport Renewal Application Form (fillable online or print and fill by hand).
- Passport photo meeting official criteria (2x2 inch, color, white background, clear face, no glasses/headgear).
- Payment for the passport renewal fee ($130 standard, $190 expedited including $60 expedite fee).
- How to Submit:
- If eligible, you can renew online through the U.S. State Department's online system by creating an account and submitting your renewal electronically.
- Or, mail your completed DS-82 form, passport photo, payment, and current passport to the State Department using a trackable USPS service.
- If not eligible for mail/online renewal, you will need to apply in person using Form DS-11 at a passport acceptance facility such as post offices or county offices in NC.
- Processing Time & Tips:
- Routine processing takes about 8-11 weeks; expedited service is faster.
- Allow extra time for mailing.
- Some private services in NC offer expedited renewals with quicker turnaround, but include extra fees.
- Check destination passport validity rules, as some require 6 months of validity beyond travel dates.
Local facilities, including many post offices and government offices, can provide passport photo services and acceptance for new passport applications if needed.
