Your Complete Guide to Renewing a U.S. Passport

Feeling a bit stressed about renewing your passport? It’s a common feeling, but the process is more straightforward than you might think. We’ve created this simple, step-by-step guide to walk you through everything you need to know, from which form to use to how long it will take. Let’s make it easy.

Can You Renew Your Passport by Mail?

The first and most important step is to see if you qualify for renewal by mail. This is the easiest and most common method. You can renew your U.S. passport by mail if all of the following statements are true for you:

  • You have your passport in your possession, and it is not significantly damaged (other than normal wear and tear).
  • It was issued when you were age 16 or older.
  • It was issued within the last 15 years.
  • It was issued in your current name, or you can legally document your name change with an original or certified copy of your marriage certificate or court order.

If you answered “yes” to all of these questions, congratulations! You can renew by mail. If you answered “no” to any of them, you will need to apply in person using Form DS-11. This is common for first-time applicants, those whose passports were lost or stolen, or those whose previous passport was issued when they were a minor.

A Simple Checklist for Your Mail-In Renewal

To avoid feeling overwhelmed, think of the process as a simple checklist. You just need to gather a few key items to send in your application package.

1. The Correct Application Form: DS-82

The form you need is called Form DS-82, “U.S. Passport Renewal Application for Eligible Individuals.” You can easily find and download this form from the U.S. Department of State’s official website. You have two options:

  • Online Form Filler: The easiest way is to use the online tool which allows you to type in your information and then print the completed form. This minimizes errors.
  • Print a PDF: You can also print a blank PDF of the form and fill it out by hand using black ink.

Make sure you sign and date the form before you mail it.

2. Your Most Recent U.S. Passport

Yes, you must mail your actual passport book and/or card with your application. Don’t worry, it will be canceled and returned to you, though it may arrive in a separate mailing from your new passport. Ensure it’s the same passport you are renewing.

3. A Compliant Passport Photo

This is one of the most common reasons for application delays, so getting it right is important. Your photo must be:

  • In color.
  • Taken within the last 6 months.
  • Sized at 2x2 inches (51x51 mm).
  • Printed on matte or glossy photo-quality paper.
  • Taken with a plain white or off-white background.
  • You must have a neutral facial expression or a slight, natural smile with both eyes open.
  • You cannot wear glasses in your photo. If you cannot remove them for medical reasons, you must include a signed note from your doctor with your application.
  • You cannot wear a hat or head covering, unless you submit a signed statement that it is part of a recognized religious practice or you provide a doctor’s note for medical purposes.

Many pharmacies like CVS or Walgreens, as well as shipping centers like FedEx Office, offer passport photo services that guarantee the photo meets all government requirements.

4. Payment for the Fees

You must pay the passport renewal fees with a check or money order. Do not send cash. The payment must be made payable to the “U.S. Department of State.”

As of late 2023 and early 2024, the standard fees are:

  • Passport Book: $130
  • Passport Card: $30
  • Passport Book & Card: $160

For faster processing, you can add an expedited service fee, which is an additional $60. You can also pay for 1-2 day delivery of your completed passport for an extra $19.53. Always check the Department of State’s website for the most current fees before sending your payment.

5. Name Change Documentation (If Applicable)

If your current name is different from the name on your old passport, you must include a certified copy of the legal document that proves your name change. This could be a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or a court-ordered name change document.

Assembling and Mailing Your Application

Once you have all your items, it’s time to put them together.

  1. Sign and Date: Double-check that you have signed and dated Form DS-82.
  2. Attach Your Photo: Use two staples to securely attach your photo to the designated spot on the form. Staple vertically along the edges of the photo.
  3. Package Everything: Place your signed form, your old passport, your photo, and your check or money order into a large envelope. A sturdy Tyvek envelope is a great choice to prevent damage.
  4. Mail It: Use a trackable delivery method. The U.S. Postal Service’s Priority Mail or Priority Mail Express services are excellent options as they provide tracking and protect your documents. The mailing address depends on where you live and whether you are paying for expedited service. The correct address will be listed on the instructions for Form DS-82.

Current Processing Times

Passport processing times can change based on demand. It’s critical to check the official U.S. Department of State website for the most current estimates before you apply. Generally, you can expect:

  • Routine Service: Several weeks.
  • Expedited Service: Fewer weeks, for an additional fee.

These timeframes begin the day your application is received at the processing center, not the day you mail it. Always plan well ahead of any international travel.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I check the status of my renewal application? You can check your application status on the U.S. Department of State’s “Online Passport Status System” about 7-10 business days after you mail it. You will need your last name, date of birth, and the last four digits of your Social Security Number.

Can I still renew my passport if it has already expired? Yes. As long as it was issued within the last 15 years and you were at least 16 years old when it was issued, you can still use the renewal-by-mail process even after the expiration date.

What is the difference between a passport book and a passport card? A passport book is valid for all international travel by air, sea, or land. A passport card is a smaller, wallet-sized document that is only valid for land and sea travel to Canada, Mexico, Bermuda, and the Caribbean. It cannot be used for international air travel.