To renew a U.S. passport in Washington State in 2025, the main options are to renew online or by mail if eligible. Here is a summary of the process:
Renewing Online (If Eligible)
- Eligible adults who meet specific criteria (passport valid for 10 years, expires within 1 year or expired less than 5 years, not damaged, issued after age 16, etc.) can renew their passport online through the U.S. Department of State's official MyTravelGov system.
- Create a MyTravelGov account, upload a digital photo, pay fees online, and submit your application electronically.
- Keep your old passport; do not mail it. Passport status updates will be sent via email.
Renewing by Mail
- Most adult passport renewals in Washington are done by mail using Form DS-82.
- Your most recent passport must be undamaged and meet criteria: issued within the last 15 years, issued when age 16 or older, in your current name or with documentation of name change.
- Complete the DS-82 form, include a passport photo, renewal fee (check or money order), and mail to the appropriate State Department address.
- Use USPS Priority Mail with tracking recommended.
- Processing time is typically 4-6 weeks, expedited 2-3 weeks (additional fee).
In-Person Renewals
- Usually required if your passport was issued before age 16, lost, damaged, or issued more than 15 years ago.
- Passport acceptance facilities or regional agencies in Washington provide these services by appointment.
- Some offices offer passport photo services.
- For emergencies or urgent travel, the Washington Passport Agency can handle expedited cases with appointments.
Additional Resources in Washington State
- County offices like Thurston or Pierce County offer passport services and photo-taking.
- Customer service centers generally handle new or certain renewal applications but not routine mail-in renewals.
If eligible, the fastest and most convenient method is to renew online. Otherwise, mail your completed DS-82 form with documents and fees or visit a passport acceptance facility if an in-person application is required. If more details are needed about specific locations or forms, those can be provided as well. This information aligns with the official U.S. Department of State guidelines and local Washington State passport service provisions for 2025.
