Want to renew your passport? The renewal process is actually a lot easier than getting a new passport. There are less steps and you can apply for a passport renewal 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 get a passport renewed if your current passport is not damaged and you were not a minor when you got it. Also, it had to be issued within the last 15 years. Finally, you either have to have the same name as that which is in your current passport or you have to submit evidence that the name was changed legally.
It is recommend that you ititate the renewal process 9 months before the expiration date. With regular processing, it takes four to six weeks for the renewed passport to be sent to you. 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 application form DS-82 and send it in along with two recent passport-style pictures, your current passport and payment 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 include evidence that your name has been legally changed if you are required to do so. The address you send the package to is on the application.
What do you do when you need to renew a passport fast? There are a few options available to you. One, you can ask for expedited service when you send the renewal application. Include an additional $60 for this service and use a two-way overnight delivery method. It takes two to three weeks to expedite a renewal this way.
The fastest way to get your passport renewed is to submit the application form at a regional passport agency or applying through a private passport expediter. Both methods can get your passport renewed the same day. This does not include delivery time nor the time it takes you to get to the regional agency.
Regional agencies process expedited passport renewals for applicants who need to get a passport in 48 hours or less. 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 accelerate your passport renewal.