# Travel >> Travel Preparation >> Passports

How Do I Renew My German Passport in America?

In order for German citizens to travel abroad, they are required to carry a valid and current German passport. As a result of new biometric features on passports introduced in Germany's Passport Act, all applicants for a passport must appear in person when applying for or renewing a passport. Since 2007, passports applications and renewals cannot be made by mail. Nine German missions in the United States offer consular services, including passport services. In addition to these missions, German citizens can apply for and renew passports at honorary consulates throughout the country.

Instructions

- 1
  Ensure you have all the necessary documents to renew your passport. You must bring two recent identical, biometrically compatible passport photos, your current German passport, and a copy of the passport's photo page with your personal details. You must present originals and copies of your birth certificate, marriage license, divorce certificate or death certificate of your spouse (if applicable), United States residency permit (resident alien card, residency visa or U.S. passport), and U.S. driver's license or a utility bill with your name and legal address. If your current passport includes a German place of residence, you must provide an original and a copy of the confirmation of deregistration ("Abmeldebescheinigung") from the previous residence.
- 2
  Visit the German Missions in the United States website and locate your nearest mission. In addition to the German embassy in Washington, there are eight consulates and 38 honorary consuls across the United States. Each mission is responsible for specific geographic regions. For example, the consulate in New York City serves German citizens in New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania and Connecticut (Fairfield County).
- 3
  Determine whether an appointment is needed before visiting the German mission closest to you. Some consulates and honorary consuls require applicants for passports to request appointments by phone before visiting the mission in person.
- 4
  Visit the German mission nearest to you and complete the application form. Application forms must be completed in person. Fingerprints will also be taken when you submit your application. If your name has changed, you may be asked to provide a declaration of your legal name when completing your application.
- 5
  Pay the passport application fee. The fee can only be paid in cash, with a money order, or using a credit card (Visa, MasterCard or American Express)
- 6
  Pick up your new passport from the German mission where you submitted your application. If you do not wish to pick up the passport in person, you may also request that your passport be mailed to you.