How long does a passport renewal take and how much is it?

What you need

To renew an adult passport you must be 16 or over, or turning 16 in the next 3 weeks. You will need:

• your old passport
• any valid passports from other countries (send the passport, or a colour photocopy of every page, including blank ones)
• a digital photo if you apply online, or 2 new identical printed photos if you use a paper form
• a debit or credit card (paper forms can also be paid by cheque to HM Passport Office)

How to renew, step by step

1. Check your passport has expired or has too little time left for where you are going. Each country sets its own rules.
2. Apply online or get a paper form. Online is cheaper.
3. Upload your digital photo and pay.
4. Send your old passport when asked. If it has a visa in it that is still valid, send it anyway. You will need to carry both passports to use the visa.
5. Track your application using your application reference number.
6. Receive your passport. It comes by courier or Royal Mail. It may go through your letterbox, be handed to you, or you may get a note to collect it.

Cost in 2026

Renewing online saves £13.50. People born on or before 2 September 1929 get a free passport. Your documents are posted back free by second class post, or you can pay £5 for secure delivery. You cannot get a refund if you cancel.

How long it takes

You will usually get your passport within 3 weeks. The time starts when HM Passport Office receives your documents, not when you apply. It can take longer if they need more information or an interview. They will tell you this within 3 weeks.

Do not book travel until you have your new passport. Your new passport number will be different from your old one.

If you need it faster

You book an appointment at a passport office online, up to 3 weeks ahead. The earliest Fast Track appointment is the day after you apply. The earliest 1 Day Premium appointment is 2 days after you apply. You cannot use these services from outside the UK.

After you apply

• If your passport was lost or stolen, you need someone to confirm your identity online. On a paper form, a countersignatory signs the form and one photo.
• If you need to change your name or personal details, the process is different, so check before you apply.

If you live in Scotland, Wales or Northern Ireland

Passports are issued by HM Passport Office for the whole UK, so the fees, steps and times are the same everywhere.

Related guides

• How much does a UK passport cost?
• What are the rules for a UK passport photo?
• How can I get a passport urgently?
• Who can countersign a passport application?
• How do I get a passport for my child?

Where this comes from

• Renew or replace your adult passport (GOV.UK)
• Passport fees (GOV.UK)
• Get a passport urgently (GOV.UK)
• HM Passport Office: about our services