A Step-by-Step Guide
Keeping your passport up to date is very important for anyone who loves to travel or needs to prove their identity. Renewing your passport might seem tricky at first, but the process is simple if you follow the right steps. This article explains how to renew your passport, and the different ways you can do so.
Ways to Renew Your Passport
There are two common methods to renew your passport in the United States: by mail and online.
By Mail
When you renew your passport by mail, you send in your completed application and all required documents through the postal service. It involves printing and filling out forms by hand or with an online form filler, attaching your recent passport, a proper photo and paying the required fees.
Online
Renewing your passport online is a fast and efficient way to update your passport. The process is done through a secure government website where you create an account and fill in your details. You upload a digital photo, confirm your personal details and make the payment electronically. This method may not be available to everyone yet, as it depends on your eligibility and the specific guidelines provided by the passport agency.
Steps to Renew Your Passport by Mail
If you decide that renewing your passport by mail is the best method for you, here are the steps you need to follow.
Confirm You Meet Requirements
Make sure you meet all the criteria for renewing by mail. Your most recent passport should be undamaged, not reported lost or stolen, issued when you were 16 years or older and within the last 15 years.
Fill Out the Form and Print It
You can fill out the form online and then print it or you may choose to print the blank form first and complete it by hand. Make sure all information is correct and complete to avoid any delays.
Submit Your Most Recent Passport
You must include your most recent passport with your application. Do not send your original documents without proper tracking and insurance if you wish to avoid any potential loss.
Provide a Photo
You need to include one new passport photo that meets the official requirements. The photo should be recent, clear and show your head and shoulders against a plain background.
Pay Fees
Include the correct fee with your mail-in application. Review the current list of accepted payments on the official site.
Submit Completed Application and Documents
Once you have gathered all required materials and checked everything twice, package your application securely. Mail your application using a trackable mailing service for added security. Keep copies of everything you send in case you need to follow up on your application later.
Steps to Renew Your Passport Online
If you are eligible to use the online renewal process, here is a simple guide on how to renew online.
1. Confirm You Meet Requirements
Just as with the mail-in method, begin by confirming that you meet all the online renewal criteria. This includes your previous passport being valid for the last ten years and is expiring within the next year or has expired less than five years ago, you are 25 years or older and you are not changing any personal information.
2. Create an Account
Visit the official passport renewal website and create a secure account. This account will allow you to manage your application process and track the progress of your passport renewal.
3. Start the Application
Start a new application for passport renewal, follow the online prompts and fill in the required details accurately.
4. Enter Information About Your Most Recent Passport
You will be asked to provide details such as your passport number, date of issue and expiration date. Ensure that you double-check all the entered information to make sure it matches your current passport.
5. Upload a Digital Photo
As with the mail-in process, you must include a recent passport photo. Upload a digital version of your photo that meets the official guidelines.
6. Sign and Pay
The final steps include electronically signing your application and paying the required fees online. Review your application thoroughly before submitting to ensure everything is correct.
Tips to Getting a New Passport Quickly
Sometimes you need your passport in a hurry. Here are some tips to speed up the process.
Make an Appointment at an Agency or Center
If your travel dates are close, consider visiting a passport agency or center in person. Appointments can be made by calling the passport services office and, in many cases, you can get your passport on the same day or within a few days. This option is ideal if you have urgent travel needs.
Expedite by Mail
You can request expedited processing by including an extra fee along with your application when mailing it. This is a good option if you are not close enough to a passport agency or prefer not to visit in person.
Renewing your passport does not have to be a stressful experience. With careful preparation and attention to detail, you’ll soon have a new passport ready for your next adventure.