To renew a US passport, applicants must submit their most recent passport, a completed DS-82 form, and a new passport photo meeting specific requirements. Proof of name change, such as a marriage certificate or court order, is necessary if the applicant's name differs from the previous passport. Payment of the renewal fee and a valid form of identification are also essential to complete the process.
What Documents are Required for a US Passport Renewal?
| Number | Name | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | DS-82 Form Submission | The DS-82 form must be completed and submitted for US passport renewals eligible under the mail-in process, with applicants required to include their most recent passport, a recent color passport photo, and appropriate fees. Supporting evidence such as name change documents or additional identification may be necessary if personal information has changed since the last passport issuance. |
| 2 | Digital Passport Photo Upload | For a US passport renewal, applicants must upload a high-resolution digital passport photo meeting specific requirements such as a 2x2 inch size, white background, and recent capture within the last six months. The photo file should be in JPEG format, between 240 KB and 5 MB, ensuring clarity and compliance with the Department of State's guidelines to avoid processing delays. |
| 3 | Real ID Act Compliance | To renew a US passport under the Real ID Act compliance, applicants must submit proof of citizenship such as a previous passport or a certified birth certificate, and evidence of identity including a current valid ID card compliant with Real ID standards. Supporting documents like a passport renewal application form (DS-82) and a recent passport photo are also required to ensure eligibility and adherence to federal security requirements. |
| 4 | Expired Passport Surrender | Expired passport surrender is mandatory during the US passport renewal process to prevent fraud and confirm prior citizenship. Applicants must submit their most recent expired passport along with the renewal form DS-82, proof of name change if applicable, and acceptable identification documents. |
| 5 | Name Change Evidence Attachment | To renew a US passport with a name change, applicants must provide an original or certified copy of the legal document supporting the name change, such as a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. This evidence must be attached to the renewal application to verify the updated name and ensure accurate passport issuance. |
| 6 | Social Security Number Declaration | Applicants renewing a US passport must provide a Social Security Number declaration, typically included on the DS-82 form, to confirm their SSN as required by the Social Security Administration. Failure to provide an accurate SSN or declaration can result in passport processing delays or rejection. |
| 7 | Electronic Payment Authorization | Electronic Payment Authorization for US passport renewal requires a valid credit or debit card issued by a recognized financial institution, with available funds to cover the processing fees established by the U.S. Department of State. Applicants must submit this payment authorization electronically alongside their completed Form DS-82 or DS-11 to ensure seamless processing and receipt of the renewed passport. |
| 8 | Parental Consent Exception (adults) | Adults renewing a US passport typically do not require parental consent; however, individuals aged 16 or 17 must provide parental consent unless they meet specific exceptions such as being legally emancipated. Supporting documents like a court order or proof of emancipation must be submitted to validate the parental consent exemption during the renewal process. |
| 9 | COVID-19 Processing Addendum | For US passport renewal during the COVID-19 pandemic, applicants must submit the completed DS-82 form, their most recent passport, a recent color passport photo, and proof of name change if applicable; the COVID-19 Processing Addendum requires an additional health and travel questionnaire to confirm eligibility for in-person service or expedited processing. Delays may occur due to staffing limitations and increased safety protocols, so applicants are advised to check the latest guidance on the US Department of State website before submitting renewal requests. |
| 10 | Self-addressed Trackable Envelope | A self-addressed trackable envelope, such as USPS Priority Mail with a tracking number, is required to securely return the renewed U.S. passport to the applicant. This ensures the passport is sent via a reliable, traceable method, minimizing the risk of loss during transit. |
Introduction to US Passport Renewal
Renewing a US passport is a straightforward process designed to update your travel eligibility without the need for a new application. The primary documents required include your most recent passport, a completed renewal form, and proof of identity. Understanding these essentials ensures a smooth and efficient passport renewal experience.
Eligibility Criteria for Passport Renewal
Renewing a US passport requires meeting specific eligibility criteria to ensure a smooth application process. These criteria verify the applicant's identity, previous passport status, and citizenship validity.
- Previous Passport Must Be Undamaged - The applicant's most recent passport should be physically intact and not significantly damaged.
- Passport Issued Within Last 15 Years - The prior passport must have been issued within the last 15 years to qualify for renewal by mail.
- Passport Holder Was Over 16 at Issuance - The applicant must have been at least 16 years old when their previous passport was issued for eligibility in the renewal process.
Essential Documents for Renewal Application
To renew a US passport, applicants must submit their most recent passport as proof of citizenship and identity. A completed Form DS-82, available online, is required to initiate the renewal process. Additionally, a recent color passport photo that meets government specifications must be included.
Valid Passport Photo Specifications
| Document | Description |
|---|---|
| Current US Passport | Submit the most recent US passport to verify identity and citizenship during renewal. |
| Completed Form DS-82 | Use this application form for passport renewal by mail for eligible applicants. |
| Passport Photo | One recent color photograph meeting specific requirements below. |
| Passport Photo Specifications |
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| Renewal Fee | Payment for the passport renewal must be included with the application. |
Submitting Proof of US Citizenship
Proof of U.S. citizenship is a mandatory requirement when renewing a U.S. passport. Acceptable documents include a previous U.S. passport, a certified birth certificate, or a Consular Report of Birth Abroad.
A previously issued, undamaged U.S. passport serves as the primary proof of citizenship. If unavailable, applicants must submit a certified copy of their U.S. birth certificate or an official naturalization certificate.
Identification Document Requirements
For US passport renewal, submitting the correct identification documents is essential to verify your identity. The requirements ensure that your identity is confirmed securely and efficiently.
- Current Passport - Your most recent US passport must be submitted as proof of citizenship and identity.
- Government-Issued Photo ID - A valid driver's license or state ID card is required to confirm your identity.
- Passport Photo - A recent, compliant passport photo must accompany your renewal application.
Providing these documents accurately helps avoid processing delays in your passport renewal.
Fee Structure and Payment Methods
Renewing a US passport requires understanding the current fee structure and available payment methods. Accurate payment ensures timely processing of the renewal application.
- Renewal Fee Structure - The standard renewal fee for an adult passport book is $130, with additional fees for expedited services.
- Payment Options - Accepted payment methods include credit/debit cards, checks, and money orders payable to the U.S. Department of State.
- Fee Submission - Fees must accompany the renewal application, submitted via mail or at passport acceptance facilities, to avoid processing delays.
Special Circumstances and Additional Documentation
What documents are required for a US passport renewal under special circumstances? Special cases such as lost or damaged passports, name changes, and renewals for minors require additional documentation beyond the standard application form. Proof of citizenship, government-issued photo ID, and relevant legal documents must be submitted to ensure the renewal process is complete.
What additional documentation is needed if your passport was lost or stolen? You must provide a completed Form DS-64, which reports the lost or stolen passport, along with the passport renewal application. A photocopy of your government-issued ID and a certified police report may also be required.
Which documents are necessary when renewing a passport with a name change? Legal name change documents such as a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order must accompany your renewal application. These documents verify the change and link your new identity to your previous passport records.
What special considerations apply when renewing a passport for minors? Minors under 16 must apply in person with evidence of parental consent and submit proof of the child's citizenship and identity. Additional forms such as the DS-3053 for parental authorization and original birth certificates are typically required.
How does citizenship status affect the documentation needed for passport renewal? Applicants who became US citizens through naturalization must provide a naturalization certificate if it was not previously submitted. This establishes your eligibility and is necessary for processing the renewal under special circumstances.
Common Mistakes to Avoid in Document Submission
Renewing a US passport requires submitting specific documents accurately to avoid processing delays. Common mistakes often lead to rejection or additional verification steps.
Your completed DS-82 form, most recent passport, a recent passport photo, and the appropriate renewal fee are mandatory. Many applicants fail to include the correct photo size or submit a damaged passport. Ensure all documents are legible, unexpired, and meet the official guidelines to prevent common submission errors.
What Documents are Required for a US Passport Renewal? Infographic
