Timing of Passport Renewal

Too much chance something will not go perfectly; renew sooner rather than later.

My experience went very well. About 45 days from when I mailed my renewal until I had my new passport in hand. Nothing expedited, all regular mail. I think I got lucky! Most people have been reporting much longer times. I was also in no real hurry because I had nowhere to be at any specific time related to travel, so could have waited longer without worry.

Kathleen, the timing really has varied. I waited 16 weeks this year for regular processing. I don’t live too far from you so I imagine it goes to the same processing center. On the other hand, others have reported more typical times recently. The challenge is there isn’t a great deal of consistency in processing times.

Do pay for the expediting. I really wished I had.

If it were me I would do it now. Mine expired this past June. I sent it in last January and had it back in 6 weeks.

There was/is another RS forum discussion thread called Passport Renewal - New Thread. I would suggest you apply now, with the expedited processing option due to the holidays approaching. Your local PO may offer a picture taking service and possibly some mailing tips. Something with tracking is advisable.

Thank you all! I think I am going to renew now and pay the expedited fee. Simply for my own peace of mind. I don't know why in this time of limited travel I am so worried about being without my passport. When I google "expedite my passport" there are several companies that come up. Anyone have any experience with the expedited service companies?

Thank you,
Kathleen

The expediter services (other than what you pay directly to the Passport agency) are a waste of money. None can do anything to actually get the passport done any faster than you mailing it directly yourself. My opinion.

Here is the topic mentioned above-- https://community.ricksteves.com/travel-forum/general-europe/passport-renewal-new-thread

Appears to be the definition of 'random'.

I used only 'regular' and had a mailed out on 9-11 and back on 10-14 experience. Others paid extra for 'expedited' and did no better. Go figure.

One's state of residence determines which processing center you send the packet to.

Karhleen, the expedited service I referred to was the choice the US Passport office gives you.

My passport arrived today. Took 2 months and standard,not expedited service.
It looks different than my old one.
Thick plastic with holographic information on the main page.
And took a quick trip to Charlotte Airport last week to finalize and obtain my Global Entry.
So I am ready to take at least 2 European trips in 2022 before the next pandemic or something else happens.

Thank you again. I am going to send it in now using expedited through the US Passport Office. I will post when I receive it back.

Kathleen