To renew a U.S. passport by mail, you need your most recent passport, a completed DS-82 form, and one passport photo that meets official requirements. Proof of name change, such as a marriage certificate or court order, is required if your current name differs from the one on the passport. Include the appropriate renewal fee and ensure all documents are submitted in a secure envelope to the address specified on the form.
What Documents Are Needed for U.S. Passport Renewal by Mail?
| Number | Name | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Completed Form DS-82 | Completed Form DS-82 serves as the primary document required for U.S. passport renewal by mail, verifying the applicant's identity and eligibility. This form must be accurately filled out and signed to facilitate a smooth and timely passport renewal process. |
| 2 | Most recent U.S. passport | The most recent U.S. passport must be submitted as proof of identity and citizenship when renewing a U.S. passport by mail, typically the current or expired passport issued within the last 15 years. Along with the passport, applicants need to complete Form DS-82, include a recent color passport photo meeting specified requirements, and provide the appropriate renewal fee. |
| 3 | One passport photo | One passport photo is required for U.S. passport renewal by mail, and it must be a recent, color image measuring 2 x 2 inches with a white or off-white background, showing a full front view of your face with a neutral expression. The photo should meet the U.S. Department of State's strict requirements, including no glasses, proper lighting, and clear head and shoulder visibility to ensure acceptance. |
| 4 | Name change document (if applicable) | If your name has changed since your last U.S. passport was issued, you must submit an original or certified copy of the legal name change document, such as a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order, along with Form DS-82 for passport renewal by mail. This ensures your updated identity is accurately reflected in your new passport. |
| 5 | Passport renewal fee payment | The passport renewal fee payment must be completed using an accepted method such as a check or money order payable to the U.S. Department of State, and the current fee rates can be found on the official passport renewal website. Including the correct payment with the renewal application is essential to avoid processing delays or application rejection. |
| 6 | Proof of legal name change (if applicable) | Proof of legal name change for U.S. passport renewal by mail requires an original or certified copy of a government-issued document such as a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order that legally evidences the name change. These documents must be submitted along with the passport renewal application to ensure the new name is officially recognized on the passport. |
| 7 | Mailing envelope | The mailing envelope for U.S. passport renewal by mail must be a secure, pre-paid, trackable envelope such as USPS Priority Mail with delivery confirmation to ensure safe and timely receipt by the National Passport Processing Center. Using a padded or sturdy envelope prevents damage, while including a properly completed DS-82 form, current passport, and required identification documents inside guarantees seamless processing. |
Introduction to U.S. Passport Renewal by Mail
Renewing a U.S. passport by mail offers a convenient way to update your identification without visiting a passport agency. This process requires specific documents to ensure a smooth and timely renewal.
- Current U.S. Passport - Your most recent passport must be submitted as proof of citizenship and identity.
- Completed DS-82 Form - The official application form for passport renewal by mail, accurately filled out and signed.
- New Passport Photo - A recent, color passport photo meeting U.S. Department of State specifications.
Eligibility Criteria for Mail-in Passport Renewal
To renew a U.S. passport by mail, applicants must have their most recent passport that was issued when they were age 16 or older, within the last 15 years. The passport must be undamaged and issued in the applicant's current name, or name change documents must be provided.
The applicant must be a U.S. citizen and at least 16 years old at the time of the previous passport issuance. Renewal by mail is not available if the previous passport was lost, stolen, or issued when the applicant was under 16 years old.
Overview of Required Identification Documents
To renew a U.S. passport by mail, applicants must provide primary identification documents that verify their identity and citizenship. The most commonly accepted document is the applicant's most recent U.S. passport book or card.
Along with the previous passport, applicants should include a completed Form DS-82 and a new passport photo meeting specific requirements. Additional identification may be necessary if the previous passport is lost or damaged, such as a certified birth certificate or a government-issued photo ID. Proof of name change, like a marriage certificate or court order, should accompany the application when applicable.
Valid Government-Issued Photo ID
When renewing a U.S. passport by mail, a valid government-issued photo ID is essential to verify your identity. Acceptable forms include a state-issued driver's license, a state identification card, or a U.S. military ID. Make sure the ID is current and matches the name on your passport application to avoid processing delays.
Expired or Previous U.S. Passport
Renewing a U.S. passport by mail requires presenting your expired or previous U.S. passport as the primary proof of identity and citizenship. This document must meet specific criteria to qualify for the mail-in renewal process.
- Expired or Previous U.S. Passport - Your most recent U.S. passport must be submitted and in your possession to verify your identity and citizenship.
- Passport Validity Requirement - The expired passport should have been issued when you were age 16 or older, within the last 15 years, and undamaged to be acceptable for mail renewal.
- Mail-in Renewal Eligibility - You must submit the expired or previous passport along with Form DS-82, a new passport photo, and the appropriate fee for processing the renewal by mail.
Proof of Name Change (If Applicable)
What documents prove a name change for U.S. passport renewal by mail? Acceptable proof includes a certified marriage certificate, court order, or divorce decree showing your new name. These documents must be original or certified copies to validate your identity change effectively.
Acceptable Secondary Identification Options
For U.S. passport renewal by mail, acceptable secondary identification options include a valid driver's license, a government employee ID, or a military ID. Other acceptable documents are a current student ID or a naturalization certificate. These forms of identification help verify your identity when submitting your renewal application.
Photocopy Requirements for Identification Documents
| Document Type | Photocopy Requirements |
|---|---|
| Current U.S. Passport | Submit a clear photocopy of the passport's data page showing the photograph, name, date of birth, and passport expiration date. |
| Driver's License | Provide a photocopy of the front and back of the valid driver's license, showing full name, photo, and expiration date if used as an ID supplement. |
| Government-Issued Photo ID | Include a photocopy of both sides of a valid state or federal ID card with a clear photo and identifying information. |
| Military ID | Copy both sides of the military identification card clearly, ensuring the photograph and personal details are visible. |
| Naturalization Certificate or Citizenship Certificate | Provide a photocopy of the original certificate's front side when used to support proof of citizenship along with other IDs. |
| Photocopy Quality | All photocopies must be legible, on white 8.5x11 inch paper, showing all corners of the original document, and must not be cropped or altered. |
Special Considerations for Minors and Dependents
Renewing a U.S. passport by mail requires specific documents, especially when it involves minors and dependents. For minors under 16, both parents or guardians must provide consent using Form DS-3053 or appear in person with the minor.
You need to submit the child's previous passport, a recent color photograph, and proof of U.S. citizenship, such as a birth certificate. Dependents must also include notarized parental consent and evidence of guardianship if applicable.
What Documents Are Needed for U.S. Passport Renewal by Mail? Infographic
