How Do I Renew My Expired Passport?

You can apply by mail if your expired passport is undamaged.

You can renew your expired passport by mail if it is undamaged and can be sent with your application, was issued within the last 15 years when you were 16 years of age or older and is under a name that is either your current one or changed with legal documentation. Otherwise, you need to renew it in person.

Instructions

Mail

1. Complete Form DS-82 either online or in print using black ink. You can do both using the link in Resources. You need to print your online application when you are finished. Sign page 1 of this form.

2. Use a padded envelope to package the application with your passport, current fees as linked in Resources and two passport photos. If your current name differs from the one in the passport, also include either a marriage certificate or court order documenting the name change.

3. Send the envelope to the following address for routine service:

   National Passport Processing Center
   Post Office Box 90155
   Philadelphia, PA 19190-0155

   Send to the following address for expedited service:

   National Passport Processing Center
   Post Office Box 90955
   Philadelphia, PA 19190-0955

   The State Department recommends that you mail the documents with a tracing method, such as Express Mail, Registered Mail or Priority Mail with signature or delivery confirmation.

In person

1. Fill out Form DS-11, which is linked under Resources. Do not sign the form.

2. Assemble a package that includes the form, two passport photos, the current fees as linked under Resources and either your previous U.S. passport, or if it is damaged, evidence of U.S. citizenship, such as a certified birth or naturalization certificate. You'll also need proof of identification such as the passport or a valid driver's license, and a photocopy on plain, letter-sized paper showing the front and back of your ID.

3. Visit your nearest Acceptance Facility or Passport Agency. You can find a link to both under Resources. Sign the form when instructed by the passport agent. Then submit all materials to him.

Tips & Warnings

• Your passport photos must meet strict requirements to be accepted by the passport agent. For example, they must be 2 by 2 inches, have a white or off-white background and show you in ordinary street wear. The easiest way to meet these directives is to have your picture taken at a storefront passport photo shop or at an Acceptance Facility that provides photography. Use expedited service, which costs an additional fee, if you need your passport in less than 2 weeks for international travel or within 4 weeks to get a visa.

References

• Form DS-82
• Form DS-11, Acceptance Facility, Passport Agency

Resources

• Read this Article in Spanish
• Form DS-82
• Fees
• Form DS-11, Acceptance Facility, Passport Agency