What Happens to Your Old Passport When You Renew?

When you renew your U.S. passport, what happens to your old passport? Do you have to send it in? Do you get it back? And are you stuck without a passport while your renewal is being processed? In this video, we explain exactly what happens during passport renewal, including: ✔ Whether you must send in your current passport ✔ How mail-in passport renewal works with Form DS-82 ✔ What happens to your old passport after renewal ✔ Why your new and old passports may arrive separately ✔ How long you may be without a usable passport ✔ Common mistakes travelers make before renewing ✔ Online passport renewal vs. mail-in renewal ✔ When you should NOT renew your passport yet Many travelers don't realize that renewing a passport can temporarily leave them without access to the document they need for travel, visa applications, cruises, and other international plans. Understanding the timeline can help you avoid costly mistakes and travel disruptions. Need more passport help? Visit: https://www.us-passport-service-guide... Passport Courier Directory: https://www.us-passport-service-guide... Watch next: ▶ How to Renew Your Passport Online in 2026:    • How to Renew Your U.S. Passport ONLINE in ...   Subscribe for passport, travel document, and U.S. Department of State updates, tips, and travel guidance. 0:00 Do You Have to Send In Your Passport? 0:31 Why Your Current Passport Is Required 1:19 Will You Get Your Old Passport Back? 1:37 How Long You May Be Without It 2:11 How Your Passport and Documents Are Returned 2:53 When You Should Wait to Renew 4:30 What Happens When You Renew Online #PassportRenewal #Passport #TravelTips #USPassport #PassportBook #PassportCard #InternationalTravel