Are you a frequent traveler with an expired passport? How do you renew it and continue your adventures? Renewing an expired passport may seem like a daunting task, but don’t worry, it is easier than applying for a new one. In this guide, we will walk you through the process of renewing an expired passport step by step, so you can return to exploring the world.
When Should You Renew Your Passport?
You should renew your passport six months before it expires. This is because some countries require that your passport be valid for at least six months beyond the entry date. If traveling soon, ensure your passport is valid for your trip. Otherwise, you may be denied entry to your destination.
Step 1: Check Your Eligibility
If you want to renew your expired passport, you must meet some requirements. You can renew your passport if it meets the following criteria:
- Issued within the last 15 years
- You were over 16 years old when it was issued
- Your current name is the same as the name on the expired passport (or you have legal documentation to prove a name change)
- Your passport is not damaged, lost, or stolen
.If your passport is damaged or stolen, you must apply for a new one instead of renewing your expired passport. Additionally, if your passport has expired for more than five years, you will need to apply for a new passport.
New Passport VS Renewal
It’s important to note that the application process for a new passport differs from that of a passport renewal. When applying for a new passport, you must provide proof of citizenship and identity, such as a birth certificate and driver’s license. You must also appear in person at an acceptance facility to submit your application. In contrast, when renewing a passport, you only need to submit your most recent passport, a passport photo, the DS-82 form, and the renewal fee.
Step 2: Collect Your Documents
When renewing your expired passport, gather all the necessary documents for the renewal process.
These include:
- Expired passport
- Two recent passport photos (taken within the last six months)
- Completed DS-82 form (Application for Passport Renewal)
- Renewal fee
You can find the DS-82 form on the U.S. Department of State website. Additionally, if you have changed your name, you will need to provide legal documentation such as a marriage certificate or court order.
Step 3: Fill Out the Application
The DS-82 form is simple and requires basic information such as your name, address, and passport details. Provide a contact number and an email address. Ensure that all the information is accurate and up-to-date, as any mistakes can cause delays in the renewal process.
Step 4: Get Your Passport Photos Taken
You must have two passport photos that meet the U.S. Department of State’s requirements. These photos should be taken in front of a white or off-white background and measure 2 inches by 2 inches.
Your passport photo is a crucial part of your passport renewal application, and it’s important to make sure your photo meets the requirements set by the U.S. Department of State.
Here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind when taking your passport photo:
Do:
- Use a professional passport photo service to ensure your photo meets all requirements.
- Wear regular street clothes and avoid wearing anything that could be construed as a uniform, such as a military or an airline uniform.
- Keep a neutral facial expression with both eyes open and look directly at the camera.
- Use a plain white or off-white background without any patterns or shadows.
- Make sure your entire face is visible and that there are no shadows or obstructions on your face.
- take within six months of applying
Don’t:
- Wear glasses
- Wear a hat or head covering unless you wear it daily for religious purposes. Even then, your face must be visible from your forehead to your chin.
- Make any face or head gestures, such as a smile or tilt of the head.
- Use filters or alter the photo in any way.
If you need help determining whether your photo meets the requirements, The Passport Office can help. We provide passport photo services, and our team can ensure that your photo meets all the specifications. Just bring your passport renewal application with you to our office. We can also take your passport photo for you!
Step 5: Submit Your Passport Renewal Application
Once you have all of your necessary documents in order, it’s time to submit your passport renewal application. There are a few different ways to do this.
By mail:
You can submit your passport renewal application if you meet certain criteria. To renew your passport by mail, you must have your most recent passport in your possession, it must be in good condition, and it must have been issued within the last 15 years. You must also submit a new passport photo, the renewal fee, and a completed DS-82 form. Once you’ve gathered your documents, you can mail them to the address listed on the DS-82 form.
In-person:
You can also submit your passport renewal application at an acceptance facility. Passport acceptance facilities include post offices, courthouses, and libraries. To submit your application in person, you must bring your most recent passport, a new passport photo, the renewal fee, and a completed DS-82 form. You’ll also need proof of identity, such as a driver’s license or state ID.
Through a private courier service
As mentioned later in the blog, you can also use a private courier service to submit your passport renewal application. These services can handle the entire process, from reviewing your application for errors to submitting it to the U.S. Department of State. To use a private courier service, you must provide them with all your necessary documents and pay their fee.
Final Thoughts on Submitting your Passport Renewal Application
No matter your chosen method, ensuring your application is filled out completely and accurately is important. Any errors or missing information can delay the processing of your renewal application. You should also sign your application and include the correct renewal fee.
Once your application has been submitted, you can check the status of your passport renewal online through the U.S. Department of State’s website. Processing times can vary, but you should receive your renewed passport within 10-12 weeks if you choose the standard processing option.
Consider Expediting Your Passport Renewal
If you’re hurrying to get your renewed passport, consider expediting your application. The U.S. Department of State offers expedited services for an additional fee. With expedited services, you can receive your passport within 4-6 weeks instead of 10-12 weeks.
Select the expedited service option when filling out your passport renewal application to expedite your passport renewal through the U.S. Department of State. You may need to pay an additional fee and provide proof of your travel plans, such as a flight itinerary. Once your application is submitted, the U.S. Department of State will process it quickly.
However, if you need your passport even faster, consider using a private courier service to expedite your renewal. Private courier services specialize in expediting passports and can often get your renewed passport to you in as little as three days. These services charge an additional fee, but they can be a lifesaver if you need your passport quickly.
Choosing a Private Courier
When choosing a private courier service, it’s essential to research and chooses a trustworthy company. Look for companies that have been in business for several years and have good customer reviews. The Passport Office, for example, has been servicing expedited passports for over 20 years and is a reliable and trustworthy option.
To expedite your passport renewal through The Passport Office, bring your completed passport renewal application and any necessary documents to one of our offices. We’ll even help you type out documents to ensure everything is submitted correctly.
Our team reviews your application and ensures everything is in order before submitting it to the U.S. Department of State for expedited processing. We can even get your passport to you in as little as three days!
Expedite Your Passport Renewal: The Passport Office
Renewing an expired passport can be a hassle, but you can get it done quickly and efficiently with the correct information and resources.
Remember that The Passport Office offers other passport services, including child passport processing, lost or stolen passport replacements, name change passport processing, and new passport application processing. Contact us today to learn how we can assist you with your passport needs.
