The Travelers Blog

Need help to renew a U.S. passport? Renewing a passport is actually much simpler than applying for a new one. There are fewer requirements and the renewal application can be sent by mail as long as you meet all the criteria. This article will provide info and ideas to help you get your passport renewed quickly and easily.

You can apply to renew passport if your current passport is not damaged and you were 16 or older when you got it. Also, it cannot be more than 15 years old. 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. Travel visas to many countries are only issued if passports meet this requirement.

How do you apply for passport renewal? All you have to do is complete application form DS-82 and mail 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 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 get your passport renewed fast? There are a few ways that you can do this. One, you can simply request expedited service when you send the renewal application. 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 renew a passport is to submit the application form at a regional passport agency or applying through a private expediter. Both methods can get your passport renewed the same day. This does not include delivery time nor the time it takes to travel if you plan to visit an agency.

Regional agencies process emergency passport renewals for travelers 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 nearest regional agency, many travelers were allowed to submit applications for passport renewals 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 renew your passport urgently, your best option is to authorize a private expediter to represent you. 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 get your passport renewed in a hurry.