For a U.S. passport renewal, you need your most recent passport, a completed DS-82 form, a passport photo that meets specific requirements, and the appropriate renewal fee. If your name has changed, you must provide a certified name change document such as a marriage certificate or court order. Submitting these documents correctly ensures a smooth and timely passport renewal process.
What Documents Do You Need for a U.S. Passport Renewal?
| Number | Name | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | DS-82 Form Submission | For U.S. passport renewal, submitting the DS-82 form is essential when your most recent passport is undamaged and was issued within the past 15 years. Along with the completed DS-82, you must provide your current passport, a recent color passport photo that meets Department of State requirements, and the appropriate renewal fee. |
| 2 | Digital Passport Photo Standards | A U.S. passport renewal requires a digital passport photo that meets specific standards, including a 2 x 2 inch size, a clear, color image with a white or off-white background, and a head position centered and facing the camera. The photo must be recent, unaltered, and free of shadows or glare to comply with the U.S. Department of State's digital passport photo guidelines. |
| 3 | Enhanced Identity Verification | For U.S. passport renewal with enhanced identity verification, applicants must provide their most recent passport, a completed Form DS-82, proof of name change if applicable, and a valid government-issued photo ID such as a driver's license. Enhanced identity verification may also require submitting additional identity documents or attending an in-person appointment to confirm the applicant's identity and prevent fraud. |
| 4 | Real ID Act Documentation | To renew a U.S. passport under the Real ID Act, applicants must provide proof of identity and citizenship, such as a previous U.S. passport or a certified birth certificate, along with a Real ID-compliant driver's license or state-issued identification card. Supporting documents may also include a passport photo meeting government specifications and a completed Form DS-82 for mail-in renewals. |
| 5 | Self-addressed Security Envelope | For a U.S. passport renewal, you must include a self-addressed security envelope to ensure your new passport is returned safely and securely. The envelope should be pre-paid, labeled with your current mailing address, and compliant with U.S. Postal Service regulations to prevent delays or lost documents. |
| 6 | Passport Book vs. Card Selection | When renewing a U.S. passport, applicants must choose between a Passport Book, which is required for international air travel and provides comprehensive global entry, and a Passport Card, ideal for land and sea travel to Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Bermuda but not valid for international flights; the renewal application form DS-82 must specify the desired document type along with submitting the current passport, a new passport photo, and applicable fees. Selecting the correct document ensures compliance with travel requirements and smooth processing through the U.S. Department of State. |
| 7 | Expedited Processing Proof | To qualify for expedited processing of a U.S. passport renewal, applicants must submit proof of urgent travel, such as airline tickets, itinerary, or a governmental travel letter. Supporting documents must clearly indicate the date of travel to ensure eligibility for faster service. |
| 8 | E-Passport Compliance | To renew a U.S. passport with E-Passport compliance, applicants must submit their most recent passport, a completed DS-82 form, a new color passport photo meeting specified standards, and the applicable renewal fee. Proof of name change documents is required if applicable, while ensuring all materials adhere to E-Passport biometric data regulations for seamless processing. |
| 9 | Name Change Legalization | For a U.S. 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, divorce decree, or court order, along with your current passport. This documentation ensures the Passport Services agency updates your identification accurately and complies with federal regulations. |
| 10 | Proof of Continuous U.S. Citizenship | Proof of continuous U.S. citizenship for passport renewal typically requires submitting your most recent U.S. passport or a U.S. birth certificate as primary evidence. If these documents are unavailable, a Certificate of Naturalization or Consular Report of Birth Abroad can be used to verify your citizenship status. |
Overview of U.S. Passport Renewal
To renew a U.S. passport, you need your most recent passport, a completed Form DS-82, and a new passport photo that meets specific requirements. Proof of name change, such as a marriage certificate, is necessary if your name has changed since your last passport was issued. Payment for the renewal fee must accompany your application, submitted by mail or at designated acceptance facilities.
Eligibility Criteria for Passport Renewal
To renew a U.S. passport, eligibility requires that your most recent passport is undamaged and was issued when you were age 16 or older. The passport must have been issued within the last 15 years and in your current name or with proper documentation of a legal name change.
You need to submit the completed DS-82 form along with your most recent passport, a new color passport photo, and the applicable renewal fee. Proof of identity, such as a government-issued ID, is generally not required if you meet the specified renewal criteria.
Required Documents for U.S. Passport Renewal
To renew a U.S. passport, you must provide specific documents to ensure a smooth process. These documents verify your identity and citizenship status.
The primary document required is your most recent U.S. passport. You also need a completed Form DS-82, the U.S. Passport Renewal Application, signed and dated. A recent color passport photo that meets official requirements must be included as well.
Passport Renewal Application Forms
To renew a U.S. passport, you must complete the DS-82 form, officially known as the U.S. Passport Renewal Application for Eligible Individuals. This form can be filled out online or printed and completed by hand.
The DS-82 requests personal information including your current passport number, name, date of birth, and contact details. Accurate completion of this form is essential to avoid delays in processing your passport renewal.
Photographic Standards and Guidelines
Renewing a U.S. passport requires adherence to strict photographic standards to ensure your application is processed smoothly. Meeting these guidelines prevents delays and maintains the integrity of your identification.
- Photo Size - The photo must be 2 x 2 inches (51 x 51 mm) in size with a clear image of your face.
- Background Requirements - A plain white or off-white background is mandatory to provide optimal contrast with your face.
- Facial Expression and Position - Your face should be centered, with a neutral expression, and both eyes open, avoiding shadows or reflections.
Submission Methods: Mail vs. In-Person
| Submission Method | Required Documents | Details |
|---|---|---|
|
Renewing by mail is efficient for applicants whose previous passport is undamaged and issued within the last 15 years. The package should be sent via USPS or another trusted courier. Tracking delivery is recommended to ensure submission success. | |
| In-Person |
|
In-person submission is necessary for first-time applicants, those with expired passports over 15 years old, or if additional identification is needed. Personal presence allows immediate verification and may expedite processing. |
Fees and Payment Policies
What documents are required for fees and payment when renewing a U.S. passport? The U.S. Department of State specifies exact payment methods and fee amounts for passport renewal. Understanding these policies ensures the application process proceeds without delays.
Processing Times and Expedited Services
Renewing a U.S. passport requires specific documents and an understanding of the associated processing times. Expedited services offer faster turnaround for urgent travel needs.
- Required Documents - Submit your completed DS-82 form, current passport, a recent passport photo, and payment for renewal fees.
- Standard Processing Times - Routine passport renewal typically takes 8 to 11 weeks for delivery.
- Expedited Services - Expedited processing reduces delivery time to approximately 5 to 7 weeks with an additional fee.
Planning ahead ensures that your passport renewal meets your travel deadlines without complications.
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Renewing a U.S. passport requires submitting your most recent passport, a completed DS-82 form, a recent color photo, and the appropriate fee. Common mistakes include submitting outdated photos, incomplete forms, or failing to sign the application. To avoid delays, double-check expiration dates on photos, carefully follow form instructions, and verify all required documents before submission.
What Documents Do You Need for a U.S. Passport Renewal? Infographic
