Complete form DS-82, the application for a U.S. Passport by mail (see Resources). Complete the entire form as incomplete forms are denied.
Take two new passport photos, which must meet all of the U.S. Department of State's passport photo guidelines. Your photos must be in color, identical and only show your face, with no more than 1 to 1 3/8 inches between your chin and forehead. The photos must be against a light background and you must not wear any uniforms, hats or nonprescription glasses. If your religion requires that you wear religious attire on a daily basis, you may wear it for your passport photos.
Mail your application, photos and your current passport to the U.S. Department of State address listed on form DS-82, along with a check payable to the Department of State in the amount of $110, the passport renewal fee as of 2011. For an additional $60 you can have your passport renewal expedited, which means you will receive your new passport two to three weeks after the U.S. Department of State receives your renewal application, rather than the normal processing time of six to eight weeks.
Report your passport lost or stolen before applying for another passport in its place. Call 887-487-2778 or obtain and mail form DS-64 to the U.S. Department of State to report a lost or stolen passport.
Obtain a replacement passport by filling out form DS-11 and form DS-64 (see Resources).
Take your completed forms to your nearest Passport Acceptance Facility, along with two new passport photos, proof of your identity and proof of your citizenship. Driver's licenses, state and government ID cards, birth certificates, reports of birth abroad, naturalization certificates and certificates of citizenship are the accepted forms for proof of identity and citizenship.
Pay the fees associated with renewing your passport and the fees to expedite your new passport if you choose.
