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Passport renewal in Puerto Rico

Written from published rules on 27 August 2026. Not monitored for changes since. A starting point, not official advice — confirm anything that matters with U.S. Department of State, Bureau of Consular Affairs.

Renewing a U.S. passport for individuals whose most recent passport was issued in Puerto Rico generally follows the same procedures as renewing any U.S. passport. This typically involves preparing an application package and submitting it by mail, though in some urgent situations, in-person applications may be possible.

Your timing

Most people apply to renew their passport several months before it expires, especially if they have upcoming international travel plans. Standard processing can take several weeks, and expedited services are available for an additional fee. It is advisable to check current processing times on the Department of State's website, as these can fluctuate.

Start 126 days ahead

This estimate (approx. 18 weeks or 4.5 months) is based on standard processing times that can range from 8-11 weeks for routine service, plus mailing times. It's prudent to account for potential delays and apply well in advance of any travel plans or expiration dates. Expedited services are available for a shorter processing time.

The process

  1. 1Determine eligibility to renew by mail; generally, this applies if the passport is undamaged, was issued when the applicant was age 16 or older, was issued within the last 15 years, and was issued in the applicant's current name or the name change can be documented.
  2. 2Complete and sign Form DS-82, 'U.S. Passport Renewal Application for Eligible Individuals'.
  3. 3Gather the required documents: the most recent passport, original or certified copy of any name change document (if applicable), and a new color passport photo.
  4. 4Calculate the applicable fees. This includes the passport book fee, and potentially a passport card fee or expedited service fees.
  5. 5Write a check or money order payable to 'U.S. Department of State' for the correct fee amount.
  6. 6Mail the complete application package (Form DS-82, old passport, photo, name change document if needed, and payment) to the address specified on Form DS-82 or the Department of State website.
  7. 7Track the application status online using the tool provided by the Department of State, typically accessible a few days after mailing.

What to bring

  • Most recent U.S. Passport (must be submitted with the application)
  • Form DS-82, U.S. Passport Renewal Application for Eligible Individuals
  • One new color passport photograph (meeting specific requirements)
  • Original or certified copy of a marriage certificate or court order, if the name has changed and is not reflected on the previous passport
  • Payment (check or money order) for the applicable fees

Who handles it

U.S. Department of State, Bureau of Consular Affairs

https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/passports/have-passport/renew.html

Fees for passport renewal vary depending on whether an applicant chooses a passport book, a passport card, or both, and whether expedited processing or 1-2 day delivery is requested. Current fees can be found on the official U.S. Department of State website, on the 'Passport Fees' page or directly on Form DS-82.

What commonly goes wrong

  • Ensure the passport photo meets all requirements (recent, color, correct size, neutral expression, no glasses, etc.); a non-compliant photo is a common reason for application delays.
  • Verify the eligibility criteria for renewing by mail; if an applicant does not meet all criteria (e.g., passport issued more than 15 years ago, issued when under 16, or damaged), an in-person application might be required.
  • Accurately calculate and submit the correct payment; incorrect fees can delay processing.
  • Do not staple your check or money order to Form DS-82. Paper clips are acceptable.

Sources

Other documents in Puerto Rico

Passport renewal in other countries

Often renewed together

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