How far in advance should I renew my passport?

Concerns & risks

You were trying to plan a trip next year, and you're wondering how far ahead to renew your passport.

Last-minute renewals are stressful.

Causes & evidence

Many countries require validity beyond your stay. Check processing times. See U.S. passports.

What to do

1. Renew well before expiration.
2. Check destination rules.

Common mistakes: Common mistakes: waiting until the month before travel. Renew well in advance, especially before busy seasons. Some countries require passports valid for several months beyond your stay. Check your passport's expiration date when you start planning any international trip. Some airlines won't let you board if your passport doesn't meet the destination's validity rules. Busy seasons, like spring and summer, can mean longer processing times. Look at travel.state.gov for current processing times and renewal options. If eligible, online renewal can be convenient.

Speed Man tip: Give yourself extra months; processing times change.

Wrap-up: Early. Destination rules. Processing.