If you're new here, you may want to subscribe to my RSS feed. Thanks for visiting!
Need help to renew a U.S. passport? Getting a passport renewed is easier than getting a new one. There are less steps and the renewal application can be sent by mail as long as you meet all the criteria. The information below will help you understand the options you have for getting a passport renewed.
You can apply to renew passport if your present passport is not damaged and you were not a minor when you got it. Also, it cannot be more than 15 years old. Finally, the name you put on the application should match that in your current passport or you must submit a document proving your name was changed legally.
The State Department recommends that applicants begin the process approximately 9 months before their passports expire. The application is processed and the renewed passport delivered to you in 4 to 6 weeks. This allows you to have a passport in your possession that always has at least 6 months validity remaining in it. This is a requirement that many countries have before they will issue entry visas.
How do you apply for passport renewal? You need to complete form DS-82 and send it in along with two recent passport-style pictures, your present passport and check or money order for the application fee.
Passport photos should be 2×2 inches, identical, with a white or off-white background. No black and white photos are accepted. The photos should show a full-face view and you should be dressed in normal street attire. If you normally wear prescription glasses, a hearing device, wig or similar articles, they should be worn for your picture.
Remember to send proof of your name change if you need to. You will find the address to which you need to mail the package on the application form.
What do you do when you need to renew a passport fast? There are a few options available to you. One, you can simply request expedited service when you mail in the application for renewal. Include an additional $60 for this service and use a two-way overnight delivery method. The expedited renewal will take 2 to 3 weeks to process.
The fastest way to get your passport renewed is to submit your application at a regional passport agency or applying through a private expediter. Either way you can get your passport renewed as quickly as the same day. Mail delivery time is not included in this calculation nor the time it takes to travel if you plan to visit an agency.
Regional agencies process expedited passport renewals for applicants who need to renew a passport in 24 to 48 hours. While the State Department tells applicants to call in order to schedule an appointment at the agency that serves the state where they reside, many travelers have been able to renew a passport fast without an appointment. Some were even attended at a different agency than the one that serves their state.
If you are unable to get to the regional agency but need to get your passport renewed in 48 hours or less, the only option is to submit the application through an expediter. Unless, of course, you want to cancel your travel plans. If this is the risk you are running, know that you have a choice. An expediter can renew your passport quickly.