To renew a US passport, you need your most recent passport, a completed Form DS-82, and a passport photo that meets official specifications. Proof of name change, such as a marriage certificate or court order, must be included if your name has changed since your last passport was issued. Payment for the renewal fee and a self-addressed, prepaid return envelope are required to complete the application process.
What Documents Do You Need for a US Passport Renewal?
| Number | Name | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Completed DS-82 Application Form | The completed DS-82 Application Form is essential for US passport renewal and must be accurately filled out to avoid processing delays. This form requires personal information, previous passport details, and a certified signature to verify the applicant's identity and eligibility. |
| 2 | Most Recent U.S. Passport | For a US passport renewal, you must submit your most recent U.S. passport, which serves as proof of citizenship and identity. This document is required alongside a completed DS-82 form, a recent passport photo, and the applicable renewal fee. |
| 3 | Passport Photo (2x2 inches, color) | For a US passport renewal, you must submit one recent passport photo measuring 2x2 inches in color, taken against a plain white or off-white background to meet the State Department's strict requirements. The photo should clearly show a full front view of your face with a neutral expression, no shadows, and no glasses, ensuring proper identification and compliance with federal guidelines. |
| 4 | Name Change Document (if applicable: marriage certificate, court order, divorce decree) | For a US passport renewal involving a name change, you must submit an original or certified copy of the legal name change document, such as a marriage certificate, court order, or divorce decree, to verify the new name. These documents ensure the passport reflects your current legal identity in accordance with the Department of State requirements. |
| 5 | Applicable Renewal Fee Payment | The applicable renewal fee payment for a US passport renewal typically requires a check or money order made payable to the U.S. Department of State, with exact amounts outlined on the official government website, currently set at $130 for an adult passport book. Credit card payments are accepted if renewing in person at certain passport agencies or centers, while online renewal options may allow electronic payment methods depending on eligibility. |
| 6 | Proof of U.S. Citizenship (if first adult renewal or lost passport): Birth Certificate, Certificate of Naturalization, or Consular Report of Birth Abroad | To renew a US passport for the first time as an adult or if the previous passport is lost, you must provide proof of U.S. citizenship such as an original or certified birth certificate, a Certificate of Naturalization, or a Consular Report of Birth Abroad. These documents verify your citizenship status and are essential for processing the renewal application efficiently. |
| 7 | Valid ID Copy (driver’s license, government/military ID, if requested) | A valid ID copy is essential for US passport renewal, typically including a current driver's license, government-issued ID, or military identification. This document verifies identity and must be submitted if requested by the passport agency to ensure application approval. |
| 8 | Expedited Processing Request Form (if requesting expedited service) | To request expedited processing for a US passport renewal, you must complete and submit the Expedited Processing Request Form (Form DS-82) along with your renewal application. Including this form ensures faster handling and typically reduces processing time to 1-2 weeks, which is essential for urgent travel requirements. |
| 9 | Authorization Letter (if using a third-party service or passport expeditor) | An authorization letter is required when using a third-party service or passport expeditor for US passport renewal, granting permission to act on your behalf. This letter must include the passport holder's full name, date of birth, passport number, and a clear statement authorizing the agent to handle the application process. |
Overview of US Passport Renewal Process
Renewing a US passport requires submitting specific documents to confirm your identity and citizenship. The process is designed to verify your eligibility efficiently while ensuring security.
You need to provide your most recent US passport, a completed DS-82 form, and a valid form of identification. In some cases, a new passport photo and proof of name change may also be required to complete the renewal process.
Eligibility Criteria for Passport Renewal
To renew a US passport, certain eligibility criteria must be met to ensure a smooth application process. Understanding these requirements helps you prepare the necessary documents efficiently.
- Previous Passport - Your most recent US passport must be undamaged and issued within the last 15 years.
- Age Requirement - You must have been at least 16 years old when your previous passport was issued.
- Name Consistency - Your current name must match the name on the previous passport or be accompanied by legal documents proving a name change.
Meeting these eligibility criteria ensures your passport renewal application will be accepted without delays.
Essential Documents Required for Renewal
To renew a US passport, you must provide your most recent passport as proof of identity and citizenship. A completed DS-82 form is mandatory for the renewal process.
A recent, color passport photo meeting specific requirements is required. Payment for the applicable passport renewal fee must be included with your application.
Legal Identification and Proof of Citizenship
Legal identification and proof of citizenship are essential documents for a US passport renewal. Acceptable legal identification includes a valid driver's license or a state-issued ID card.
Proof of citizenship requires a previous US passport or a certified birth certificate. Other accepted documents include a Certificate of Naturalization or a Consular Report of Birth Abroad. These documents establish your American citizenship and identity to complete the renewal process.
Recent Passport Photo Specifications
What are the recent passport photo specifications required for a US passport renewal?
The photo must be a color image taken within the last six months, showing a clear, full-face view against a plain white or off-white background. The dimensions should be 2 x 2 inches, with the head size between 1 inch and 1 3/8 inches from the bottom of the chin to the top of the head.
Signature and Completion of DS-82 Form
To renew a US passport, the DS-82 form must be fully completed with accurate information. Your signature is required in the designated section to validate the application. Incomplete forms or missing signatures can lead to processing delays or rejection.
Submission Methods: Mail vs. In-Person
When renewing a US passport, applicants must submit specific documents such as the completed DS-82 form, their most recent passport, a new passport photo, and the appropriate fee. Applicants can choose to submit their renewal by mail, which is the most common method for eligible individuals, or in-person at a passport acceptance facility or regional agency. Mail submission offers convenience and saves time, while in-person submission may be necessary for those requiring expedited service or additional verification.
Legal Implications of False Information
| Document Required | Description | Legal Implications of False Information |
|---|---|---|
| Current US Passport | Submit your most recent passport as proof of citizenship and identity for renewal. | Providing a fake or altered passport can lead to federal charges, including passport fraud, which carries penalties such as fines and imprisonment. |
| DS-82 Renewal Application Form | Complete and sign the DS-82 form accurately, certifying all information is true. | False statements on this legally binding document may result in perjury charges or penalties under US Code Title 18, Section 1001 for making false statements. |
| Recent Passport Photo | One color passport photo that meets government specifications. | Submitting falsified or altered photos may be considered identity fraud and can invalidate your renewal application. |
| Name Change Documents (If applicable) | Certified court order, marriage certificate, or divorce decree to verify legal name changes. | Failure to provide valid documentation or submitting fraudulent name change evidence is subject to legal penalties and may result in denial of passport renewal. |
| Proof of Identity | Government-issued ID such as driver's license or military ID for additional identity verification. | Use of fake or stolen identification is a criminal offense that could trigger federal investigations and prosecution. |
Handling Name Changes and Legal Amendments
Renewing a US passport requires submitting specific documents, especially when handling name changes or legal amendments. Proper documentation ensures that your renewed passport accurately reflects your current legal name and status.
- Current Passport - The most recent US passport must be submitted for renewal processing.
- Proof of Name Change - Legal documents such as a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order must verify any name changes.
- Application Form DS-82 - This form must be completed accurately to request a passport renewal with updated personal information.
What Documents Do You Need for a US Passport Renewal? Infographic
