To apply by mail, your expired passport needs to be undamaged and available to mail with your application. It needs to have been issued at age 16 or older and within the past 15 years. It must be in your current name or you need to provide legally documented proof of your name change.
If you do not meet the above criteria, you will need to apply in person. This is the same process as applying for your first passport (see Resources).
You need to fill out a DS-82 form. You also need two passport photos and passport fee. Remember your marriage certificate or court order if your name changed.
If renewing your passport from outside the USA or Canada, you will need to visit the nearest United States Embassy or Consulate.
Write "EXPEDITE" on the outside of your envelope if you need your passport soon. Include a check or money order with the additional fee. Apply in person if you need it in less than two weeks.
