To renew a passport by mail, you need your most recent U.S. passport, a completed Form DS-82, and a recent passport photo meeting specific requirements. Include proof of name change if applicable, such as a marriage certificate or court order, along with payment for the renewal fee. All documents must be mailed in a secure envelope to the designated passport processing facility.
What Documents are Needed for Passport Renewal by Mail?
| Number | Name | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Completed Passport Renewal Application Form (DS-82) | Submit a completed Passport Renewal Application Form (DS-82), which must be signed and accurately filled out with current personal information to ensure smooth processing. This form, required for eligible passport renewals by mail, confirms the applicant's identity and authorization to receive the new passport. |
| 2 | Most Recent U.S. Passport | For passport renewal by mail, submitting your most recent U.S. passport is essential as it serves as primary proof of identity and citizenship. The passport must be undamaged, issued when you were age 16 or older, and issued within the last 15 years to qualify for mail renewal. |
| 3 | One Passport Photo (Recent, Color, and Meets Requirements) | A recent, color passport photo that meets specific government standards is essential for passport renewal by mail, ensuring the image matches the applicant's current appearance and adheres to size, background, and quality regulations. This photo must be professionally taken, typically 2x2 inches, with a clear, neutral expression against a plain white or off-white background to prevent delays in processing. |
| 4 | Name Change Document (if applicable: Marriage Certificate, Divorce Decree, Court Order) | For passport renewal by mail with a name change, submit a certified marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order as proof of the legal name change. The document must be an original or certified copy issued by the appropriate authority to ensure acceptance during processing. |
| 5 | Fee Payment (Check or Money Order) | For passport renewal by mail, the fee payment must be made using a check or money order payable to the U.S. Department of State, ensuring accurate amounts based on the current fee schedule. Personal checks or cash are not accepted, and the payment should be securely included with the renewal application to avoid processing delays. |
| 6 | Proof of Legal Name Change (if applicable) | Proof of legal name change for passport renewal by mail requires submitting an original or certified copy of the legal name change document, such as a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. These documents must clearly display the applicant's new legal name and date of the name change to ensure accurate processing. |
| 7 | Proof of U.S. Citizenship (if previous passport is lost or damaged: Birth Certificate, Naturalization Certificate, Certificate of Citizenship) | Proof of U.S. citizenship is required for passport renewal by mail if the previous passport is lost or damaged, and acceptable documents include an original or certified copy of a birth certificate, naturalization certificate, or certificate of citizenship. These documents must be submitted to verify identity and citizenship status, ensuring the renewal process complies with U.S. Department of State regulations. |
| 8 | Signed Statement Explaining Passport Damage or Loss (if applicable) | A signed statement explaining passport damage or loss is required for mail-in passport renewal when the previous passport is mutilated, lost, or stolen, detailing the circumstances of the damage or loss. This document ensures verification of the passport's status and assists in processing exceptions during renewal. |
| 9 | Return Envelope (if using expedited service) | A self-addressed, prepaid return envelope is required when using expedited service for passport renewal by mail to ensure timely delivery. The return envelope must meet USPS specifications and include appropriate postage for tracking and prompt return of the passport. |
Introduction to Passport Renewal by Mail
Renewing a passport by mail offers a convenient and secure way to update travel documents without visiting an agency. This process requires submitting specific documents to verify identity and citizenship.
- Current Passport - Must be submitted as proof of identity and previous passport issuance.
- Passport Renewal Application Form (DS-82) - A completed form required to process the renewal efficiently.
- Name Change Documents - Necessary if the name on the passport has changed due to marriage or other reasons.
Eligibility Criteria for Mail-In Renewal
Renewing a passport by mail requires meeting specific eligibility criteria to ensure the application process is smooth and efficient. Only applicants who satisfy these conditions can submit their documents without appearing in person.
- Previous Passport Must Be Undamaged - The applicant's most recent passport should be in good condition and not mutilated.
- Passport Issued Within Last 15 Years - The existing passport must have been issued within the previous 15 years to qualify for mail-in renewal.
- Issued at Age 16 or Older - The previous passport must have been issued when the applicant was at least 16 years old for eligibility.
Importance of Proper Identification
Proper identification is crucial when renewing a passport by mail to verify the applicant's identity and prevent fraud. Required documents typically include the most recent passport, a completed renewal application form (DS-82), and a recent color passport photo that meets government specifications. Ensuring all identification documents are accurate and valid expedites processing and avoids delays or rejection of the renewal application.
Primary Identification Documents Accepted
To renew your passport by mail, primary identification documents are essential for verifying your identity. These documents must be current and government-issued to be accepted.
Acceptable primary identification includes a valid driver's license, a previous U.S. passport, or a state-issued ID card. Ensure the document has a clear photo and matches the information on your renewal application.
Secondary Identification Documents (If Needed)
| Secondary Identification Documents for Passport Renewal by Mail |
|---|
| If primary identification is unavailable or insufficient, secondary identification documents may be required to verify Your identity. |
| Acceptable secondary IDs include a government-issued driver's license, a state identification card, or a military ID. |
| Other valid secondary forms include a Social Security card accompanied by a birth certificate, or a current employee ID card with photo. |
| Expired passports can sometimes serve as secondary identification if they are recent and undamaged. |
| Certified copies of court orders for name changes also support identification verification during renewal. |
| Presenting secondary identification helps ensure Your passport renewal is processed smoothly and without delay. |
Special Requirements for Name Changes
What documents are needed for passport renewal by mail when there is a name change? You must submit your most recent passport along with an original or certified copy of the name change document, such as a marriage certificate or court order. Photo identification matching the new name helps verify your identity and supports a smooth renewal process.
Requirements for Minors and Underage Applicants
Renewing a passport by mail requires specific documents, especially for minors and underage applicants. Proper identification and parental consent are crucial for a successful renewal process.
- Completed Form DS-82 or DS-11 - Minors must use Form DS-11 for renewals, while adults use Form DS-82 if eligible.
- Parental Consent Documentation - Both parents or guardians must provide consent through notarized forms or appear in person for applicants under 16.
- Evidence of U.S. Citizenship - Provide the original or certified copy of the previous passport or birth certificate as proof of citizenship.
Ensure all documents are submitted correctly to avoid processing delays for minors' passport renewals by mail.
Photocopy Guidelines for Identification Documents
To renew your passport by mail, submit a clear, full-color photocopy of your identification documents. Photocopies must be on white, 8.5" x 11" standard paper, showing the entire ID without any cuts or alterations. Ensure the photocopy includes both the front and back of the ID to meet government requirements.
Common Mistakes to Avoid in Document Submission
When renewing a passport by mail, submitting the correct documents is crucial to avoid delays. Common mistakes include sending expired forms or missing proof of identity.
Ensure your application form is filled out completely and signed. Avoid sending photocopies instead of original or certified documents to prevent rejection.
What Documents are Needed for Passport Renewal by Mail? Infographic
