You’ve figured out you need to renew your passport, but where do you go to do so? While applying for a new passport involves going in person to get your identity verified, most of the passport renewal process can be done from the comfort of your own home.
Where To Renew Your Passport
As we mentioned, renewing a passport doesn’t involve visiting a specific location. Instead, there are two main ways to apply: by mail or online. Neither method requires you to go in person.
Let’s help you understand the requirements and which option might work best for you.
Passport Renewal by Mail
Mailing in your renewal has been the standard method for renewing your passport for decades. Applicants can complete most of the process from home.
However, many will need to go somewhere to take a passport photo, print out their application, or get a money order.
The Requirements for Applying by Mail
Applicants who meet these requirements can apply for renewal by mail.
- Have their most recent passport in their possession.
- Received their current passport when they were age 16 or older.
- Have not changed their name, or can provide legal documentation of a name change.
- Received their current passport within the last 15 years.
How to Apply for Passport Renewal by Mail
If you meet these criteria, here’s how you can renew by mail:
- Complete Form DS-82: You can download this form from the U.S. State Department website.
- Prepare Your Current Passport: Include your most recent passport with your application.
- Provide a Passport Photo: Submit a new, regulation-compliant passport photo.
- Pay the Fee: Attach a check or money order payable to the “U.S. Department of State.”
- Mail Your Application: Use the address specified on Form DS-82 based on your service choice (regular or expedited).
How Long Does it Take to Apply by Mail?
This method works well if you have time to wait. Standard processing takes 6-10 weeks, and expedited service takes 3-6 weeks.
Renew Your Passport Online
In the past few years, the State Department has launched temporary online renewal programs, such as the Pilot Passport Program and the Beta version.
On September 18th, 2024, the State Department released its official online passport renewal program.
From what we know, the program is here to stay, as the State Department plans to handle 50% of all passport renewals through online applicants.
What are the Requirements to Apply Online?
Those who meet the requirements for mail renewal may not meet the requirements for online passport renewal.
Here are the main requirements:
- Have a MyTravelGov account.
- Meet the same eligibility criteria as mail renewal.
- Submit a digital passport photo that meets the State Department’s requirements
- Be able to pay the fee using a credit/debit card
The Steps to Renew Online
- Log in to MyTravelGov: log in or register to access the renewal portal.
- Fill Out the Online Form: Provide your information and upload your passport photo.
- Pay Online: Use a credit or debit card to pay the renewal fee.
- Submit Your Application: Track the status of your application online.
How Long Does it Take to Renew by Mail?
Online passport renewal follows the same timeline as mailing your passport would, at about 6-10 weeks to receive your passport.
While Online renewal is convenient, it does not offer expedited service. So, if you need your passport quickly, you’ll have to apply by mail (3-6 weeks).
If you need your passport sooner, consider a registered courier like The Passport Office (3-5 days for fastest service).
Is Mail or Online Renewal Best for You?
The mail and online methods are similar in requirements with the exception of a few things. The deciding factor for most would have to be accessibility and the speed at which you receive your passport renewal.
By Mail
If you’ve renewed your passport before, chances are you applied by mail. Mail applications are great for those who prefer an offline, traditional method for passport renewal.
This is also great for those applicants who may need expedited shipping! However, the expedited service provided by the State Department can only get you a passport in 3-6 weeks.
Online
The online option is great for those applicants who are applying early or are not in a rush to receive their passports.
At this time, the State Department does not offer expedited options for online applicants.
Online applications are convenient and can be mostly done from the comfort of your own home. However, you’ll need access to a computer or laptop.
To those taking their passport photo at home, you’ll need access to a white wall, a camera, and a way to upload the photo online.
When You Need Your Passport Fast
If you need your passport in less than four weeks, neither standard online nor mail options may be fast enough.
Expedited mail processing is quicker than online renewal but still takes time. For even faster service, consider a registered courier service like The Passport Office.
Benefits of Using The Passport Office
The Passport Office specializes in expedited passport services. We offer in-person and virtual appointments and guide you through every step of your application.
Once your documents are ready, we submit them for you.
With The Passport Office, you can receive your passport in as little as three days. This is significantly faster than the State Department’s expedited service, which takes 3-6 weeks. If time is critical, let us help you!
Final Thoughts
So, where should you renew your passport? We’ve covered how applying for passport renewal doesn’t involve visiting a specific place. Depending on your needs and timeline, you can choose between mail or online renewal.
For those who need their passports quickly, contact The Passport Office. We offer unmatched speed and personalized assistance to make the passport renewal process stress-free.
