How to Renew International Passports

Complete Form DS-82, Application for a U.S. Passport by Mail, on the U.S. Department of State website (see Resources) by clicking on the "Fill Out Form DS-82 Online" button. You will be asked to review the Department of State's "Privacy and Computer Fraud and Abuse Acts Notices and Disclaimers." Check the box stating that you have read the notice and disclaimer and click "Submit."

Choose the "Apply Online" option and click "Submit." You may also print a blank copy of Form DS-82 or obtain a blank copy from a local acceptance facility or passport agency and complete it by hand using black ink.

Type all requested information and click "Next" at the bottom of each page to complete the application. Check the box at the bottom of the last page stating you have read and acknowledge the steps and information then click "Create Form." You cannot submit your passport application online, but the website creates a PDF of your application with all of the information filled in.

Print the completed passport application form. Double-check all information to avoid processing delays. Sign and date the completed passport application on the first page.

Have passport photos taken by a professional. Photo quality requirements (see Resources) are very specific.

Attach one current passport photo to the application where indicated, using four vertical staples along the outer edges of the photo.

Place the completed Form DS-82, along with your most recent passport and the remaining passport photo, in a padded, preferably weatherproof, envelope that is large enough to hold all documents without folding them.

Include a check or money order for the current passport fees plus the additional cost of expedited service, if necessary. You may also pay by credit card at U.S. postal and acceptance facilities. Fees are listed on the "Passport Fees" section (see Resources) of the U.S. Department of State website.

Mail the envelope to the appropriate address (see Resources) depending on whether expedited service is requested. Use a traceable delivery method to track your passport application and documents.