If you have an expired passport, you can't take your next trip.If you still have the old passport in your possession, it is easy to replace it.If your passport has not been expired for more than 15 years, you can get it renewed through the mail.You will need to use a different form to get a new passport.
Step 1: Find your old passport.
All relevant information should be in the passport.You need to submit this passport with your renewal application.
Step 2: Obtain a passport photo.
A white or off-white background is required for your photograph to be taken.The U.S. Secretary of State has a website where you can read the rules regarding passport photographs.A passport photograph can be taken at a national chain drugstore.You can take a picture at the store.
Step 3: A name change should be documented.
You need to document the change if you want to keep renewing.If you changed your name because of marriage, you need a certified copy of your marriage certificate.It's not acceptable to have a photocopy.If you changed your name with a court order, you should get a certified copy of the judge's order from the court clerk.You went to the court to get a name change.
Step 4: You can call with questions.
If you have a question about the renewal process, you can call the National Passport Information Center.Someone can be found Monday through Friday from 8:00 am to 10:00 pm and Saturday from 10:00 to 3:00 pm.You can email NPIC@state.gov.
Step 5: Check to see if you are eligible.
If you have an undamaged passport, you can get a new passport through the mail.It's okay with normal wear and tear.Multiple thefts, damage, or non-compliance with regulations have not limited your passport.Your passport is not more than 15 years old.You were at least 16 when you got your passport.You can change your name if you have the same name.You can get a new passport within three weeks.You need to make an appointment with a passport agency or center if you need it sooner.
Step 6: The correct form should be completed.
DS-82 is available from the Secretary of State's website.You can complete the form online at the same website.You should have enough space on the form to staple your picture.Four staplers are used, one in each corner.
Step 7: Pay your fee.
You have to pay $110 to have your passport book renewed.When you submit your application, include a check or money order.Checks should be made out to the U.S.Don't send cash.The front of the check or money order should have your full name and date of birth printed on it.You can use the fee calculator to calculate your fee.There is an extra fee for overnight delivery.It will cost $30 to get a passport card.A passport book and a passport card cost more than $100.
Step 8: You can submit your materials in the mail.
The mailing address can be found on the last page.It can take up to six weeks for your application to be processed.If you want an expedited request, send it to the appropriate office, which is listed on the last page of the form.The envelope has the word "expedite" written on it.It can take up to three weeks to process.
Step 9: Do you need to use this process?
You cannot use the renewal process if your passport expired more than 15 years ago.Your passport is damaged.The page with your personal details might no longer be legible.You had multiple losses or other reasons that limited your passport from the usual 10 years.If a limitation applies, look in the back pages of your passport book.A child's passport is not eligible for renewal.
Step 10: The correct form needs to be completed.
The form DS-11, U.S. passport application can be downloaded from the travel.state.gov website.Attach your photograph to the space provided.If you want to change your name within a year of getting a passport, fill out the form DS-5506 instead.
Step 11: Supporting documents should be gathered.
The form has instructions.They can tell you if you need to get supporting documents.If you misplace your passport book but don't report it, you will need to fill out the Statement Regarding a Lost or Stolen U.S. Passport.If your passport was not valid, you will need a birth certificate to prove you are a citizen.
Step 12: You can submit the form in person.
You cannot get a new passport by mail.You have to visit an acceptance facility to submit your request.The nearest acceptance facility can be found at www.iafdb.travel.state.gov.You can enter your zip code.It can take up to six weeks to process.You should schedule an appointment with a passport agency if you need your passport quicker.You can find your nearest agency or center at travel.state.gov.You can schedule an appointment by calling.
Step 13: Pay your fee.
The fee is usually $110.Depending on where you submit your form, you have different payment options.You can use the fee calculator on the Secretary of State's website to figure out how much you will pay.You can pay with a check or money order.If you apply at a passport agency, you can use a variety of payment methods.