Unlike the initial application for a passport, applying by mail is a possibility for a renewal. A set of guidelines dictates if you are eligible for a mail-in renewal. Choose the mail option if your passport has no damage and is available to you, was issued at age 16 or older, was issued no longer than 15 years ago and has your current name on it. You can also provide legal documentation if your name has changed. Failing to meet these requirements means you must apply in person.
To apply by mail, you need Form DS-82, Application for a U.S. Passport by Mail. The U.S. Department of State makes the form available on its Web site. You may also pick up a copy at a passport agency or a passport acceptance facility. Many post offices fall under this category. Fill out the form in its entirety, including your signature and the date. Mail the form along with your current passport, two recent passport photos, the current passport fee and a legal document showing a name change if applicable. Because of the confidential nature of hte contents, use a padded envelope that is resistant to tampering. The U.S. Department of State recommends sending the package with traceable delivery to ensure it arrives safely.
An in-person renewal is required if you fail to meet all of the requirements for the mail-in option. Cases for an in-person renewal include being under 16, an initial issuance before age 16, a passport issued more than 15 years prior, a name change that isn't confirmed by legal documentation or if the most recent passport was lost, stolen or damaged.
Applying for a renewal in person requires the same procedures as a new passport. The Form DS-11: Application for a U.S. Passport must be completed but not signed. Wait until the acceptance agent instructs you to sign the form in his presence or it is invalid. Bring with you evidence of U.S. citizenship, a form of acceptable identification, a photocopy of the identification, the payment and two passport photos.
Evidence of U.S. citizenship includes your previous passport if it is undamaged, a certified copy of the birth certificate, a Consular Report of Birth Abroad, Certification of Birth, Naturalization Certificate or Certificate of Citizenship. The document is returned with your new passport after processing.
Acceptable identification includes your previous passport if it is undamaged, Naturalization Certificate, driver's license, government ID or military ID. All IDs must be current. Provide a photocopy of the front and back of the ID to keep with the passport application.
The processing time for the passport renewal typically takes at least four to six weeks using regular service. Expedited service costs additional. The processing time for either regular or expedited service depends on the overall volume of applications. Plan your renewal application to accommodate any upcoming travel plans that require a passport.
Always check with the U.S. Department of State to verify the current passport renewal procedures and requirements as they may change at any time.
