In August 2022, the U.S. State Department started a pilot program to let eligible people renew their U.S. passports online. This was a big change in how passports are renewed, but it had a limited initial release. Let’s look at the possibilities of renewing your passport online and guide you through the process.
What Is the Online Passport Renewal Program?
The U.S. State Department launched an online passport renewal program to make renewing passports easier and more convenient for U.S. citizens. However, on March 8, 2023, they paused this service to improve it based on customer feedback. Over 500,000 people tried the online renewal in the initial phase, and the State Department plans to roll it out nationwide soon.
Can You Renew Your Passport by Mail?
While the online renewal service is paused, you can still renew your passport by mail if you are eligible. Here’s a simple guide to help you through the process.
Are You Eligible for Passport Renewal?
Before starting the renewal process, you need to know if you are eligible. We’ll explain the eligibility requirements to help you renew your passport smoothly.
How Do You Renew Your Passport by Mail?
If you are eligible, renewing your passport by mail is easy. Follow these steps:
Step 1: Gather Required Documents
Make sure you have these documents ready:
- Your current, undamaged U.S. passport.
- A recent passport photo that meets the State Department’s requirements.
- The DS-82 application form can be downloaded from the State Department’s website.
- Payment for the renewal fees. Check the State Department’s website for the latest fee information.
- If applicable, any name change documents, like a marriage certificate or court order.
Step 2: Complete the DS-82 Form
Fill out the DS-82 form with accurate and up-to-date information. Make sure all required fields are completed, and double-check for errors. You can fill out the form online and then print it, or print it and fill it out by hand using black ink.
Step 3: Prepare Your Passport Photo
Take a recent passport-sized photo that meets the State Department’s guidelines. The photo should be 2×2 inches in color on a white background, with your face visible.
Step 4: Calculate Your Fees
Check the State Department’s website for the current renewal fees, which may vary. Include the correct payment method, such as a check or money order payable to the “U.S. Department of State.”
Step 5: Mail Your Application
Put all the required documents (completed DS-82 form, current passport, passport photo, and payment) in an envelope. Include the required postage to cover the return of your new passport. Mail the envelope to the address provided on the State Department’s website.
Step 6: Processing
After mailing your renewal application, wait for the State Department to process it. Processing times can vary but typically take several weeks. You can check the status of your application online through the State Department’s website.
Step 7: Receive Your New Passport
Once your application is approved and processed, you’ll get your new passport in the mail along with your old passport, which will be canceled.
By following these steps, you can successfully renew your passport by mail. Start the renewal process well before any international travel plans to make sure you have your new passport when you need it.
Need Your Passport Renewal Now?
The Passport Office is your reliable partner for all your passport needs. We offer a range of services, including new passports, renewals, child passports, name change applications, lost or stolen passports, and damaged passports.
Why Choose The Passport Office?
Working with an expediting company like The Passport Office has many advantages. Our friendly, knowledgeable, and Spanish-speaking staff are trusted in the industry. We can expedite your passport with a quick 3-5 day turnaround. We also help you complete your application and offer passport photo services at our Tampa, Miami, Clearwater, Hollywood, Orlando, and Atlanta offices.
With us, you can book and renew your passport fully online!
Accessible Services for Florida Travelers
If you live in Florida, the Passport Office makes it easy to renew your passport. We have offices in Miami, Orlando, Tampa, Clearwater, and Hollywood, so you can choose the most convenient location. Whether you’re planning an international vacation, a business trip, or a spontaneous getaway, we’re here to help.
How Does It Work?
The Passport Office is a registered courier for expedited passports. In short, we have expediting slots the State Department provides, so you get your passport quickly. Our goal is to make your passport renewal experience as smooth as possible.
Have Questions?
Please contact us with questions or concerns about the passport renewal process. We’re here to help you every step of the way.
How Can You Book an Appointment with The Passport Office?
The Passport Office offers multiple ways to book appointments to make your passport renewal process easier. You can contact us by phone, visit us in person, or schedule an appointment online. We aim to make your passport renewal as convenient as possible.
Ready to Start Your Passport Renewal Today?
While renewing your passport online is temporarily paused, passport renewal by mail is here to stay.
Remember, The Passport Office is here to help with your passport needs, offering expert assistance, convenient services, and expedited processing.
Contact us for any passport-related questions or to book an appointment.
We’re here to make your passport renewal experience stress-free so you can start your next adventure quickly.
