Passports do expire and the steps to renewing passports are something everyone who has ever had one should know. If you're thinking of heading out of the country on a vacation, better take a look at your passport.
Passports expire every 10 years for adults and every 5 years for children. It's a good idea to renew your passport if it's within a year of expiring. Although the steps to passport renewal aren't as numerous as for a new application, they are very specific and must be followed carefully. One convenient option for renewing your passport is that everything can be done through the mail, as long as you meet specific qualifications.
First of all, your passport must have been initially issued no more than 15 years ago. Any passport issued before that time is not considered valid and can't be renewed by mail. You'll need to look into the steps to apply for renewal in person.
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Next, you must have been issued your original passport no earlier than age 16. Passport requirements for children under 16 years old are different than for adults, so the renewal process is different.
If you've changed your name since receiving your original passport and you have no way to show legal documentation of your name change, mail renewal is not an option. You can still renew, but you'll need to apply in person at an authorized location, such as a post office.
Lastly, your current passport must be in good shape and not damaged in any way. It must be sent along with your application, so it's a good idea to keep a photocopy for your records, just to be safe.
The renewal form to use is DS-82, "Application for a U.S. Passport by Mail". This application can be found at any passport authorized location or downloaded from the internet. Visit the website for the U.S. Post Office or the U.S. Department of State to download the form. Fill it out carefully in black ink and keep a copy for yourself.
As with your first passport application
, you'll need to provide 2 passport photographs, which can be taken at various passport photo authorized locations. There's typically a $10.00 to $20.00 fee and don't forget to bring some other photo ID with you to verify your identify.
If you meet the criteria to apply by mail, send your application, the 2 passport photos, your original passport and a check for $75.00 made out to the U.S. Department of State. Don't forget any documentation needed to show a name change. Any supporting documentation must be original and certified.
It's a good idea to use some mail service that's traceable, such as certified mail, and place everything in an envelope that's unlikely to be damaged during transit. "Tyvek" type envelopes are recommended as they are very durable and resist water damage. These are available at most post offices or other mail servicing centers.
It should take approximately 3 to 4 weeks to receive your renewed passport, as long as there are no problems with the application, etc. If you need it sooner, there is an "expedited service" available through the U.S. Department of State. Check their website for details such as which address to use, which is different than that used for a standard renewal.
The process involved in renewing passports is relatively simple and straight forward. Be sure to have completed everything carefully and you should have your renewed passport in no time.
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