How to Renew Your Passport at the Post Office
Renewing your U.S. passport can be done by mail or in person. If you decide to submit your renewal application to an acceptance facility such as the library, post office or clerk's office, you must bring all required documentation. If you forget a required document or provide a photo that doesn't meet passport requirements, it may delay the processing turnaround time of your application and result in additional costs.
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Things You'll Need
- Form DS-82
- Passport photo
- Expired passport
- Marriage certificate, if necessary
- Divorce decree, if necessary
- Renewal fee
Instructions
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Use the search engine on the U.S. Department of State website to find the nearest post office that accepts passport applications. Enter your zip code, state and city and how many miles away the facility may be in your area. Choose whether you need handicap access or a facility that offers to take photos on-site or in the area.
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Download the U.S. passport renewal application, Form DS-82, from the U.S. Department of State website. Fill out the form. Application forms also are available at most post offices.
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Have your passport photo taken at a professional passport photo service. You need one color photo that is 2 by 2 inches in size. Have a neutral expression on your face when taking the photo, and face the camera directly so your full-face is visible in the photo. Avoid wearing hats, scarfs, sunglasses and other obstructive clothing.
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Call the post office to find out if you need to make an appointment. Some post offices only process passports on specific day or during specific hours. Go to the post office with your completed application, most recent expired passport and a your new passport photo. Bring your marriage certificate or divorce decree, if your last name has changed.
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Pay the renewal fee, and allow four to six weeks for delivery of your passport via U.S. mail.
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