Changing My Passport Photo

Q: Peter, I was wondering if I could get a new photo for my passport. I want a new one because last time, I had just rolled out of bed when my husband decided we needed to go to the Post Office and get our passports.

–Ann Jones, Chicago

A: Unfortunately, you can't just get a new photo if you already have a passport. In order to get a new photo, you must get a whole new passport, which means going through the time-consuming process of getting one.

The procedure can be done by mail and is similar to the procedure for renewing an expired passport. You'd fill out and submit Form DS-82, which is available online. Print it out, sign it, and submit it with your old passport, two new photos, and the required application fees.

This same spot on the U.S. State Department Web site gives you the address to which to mail the application. That depends on where in the United States (or overseas) you live.

The process takes approximately three to six weeks, unless you choose to expedite it for an additional $60.