To renew a US passport by mail, you must submit your most recent passport, a completed Form DS-82, and a new passport photo that meets specified requirements. Proof of name change, such as a marriage certificate or court order, is required if your name differs from the one on your previous passport. Payment for the renewal fee must be included, and all documents should be mailed to the designated address provided by the US Department of State.
What Documents Are Needed for a US Passport Renewal by Mail?
| Number | Name | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Completed DS-82 Form | The Completed DS-82 Form, required for US passport renewal by mail, must be accurately filled out with current personal information and signed to ensure processing. This form, supported by the applicant's most recent passport, serves as the primary document verifying identity and eligibility for renewal. |
| 2 | Most Recent U.S. Passport | The most recent U.S. passport must be submitted along with the completed Form DS-82 for mail-in renewal, which requires the passport to be undamaged and issued within the last 15 years when the applicant was age 16 or older. Supporting documents include a recent color passport photo meeting State Department specifications, a valid form of payment for the renewal fee, and any name change evidence such as a marriage certificate if applicable. |
| 3 | One Passport Photo (2x2 inches, color) | A single passport photo measuring 2x2 inches in color, taken within the last six months, must accompany your US passport renewal by mail to meet official government requirements. The photo should have a plain white or off-white background, displaying a clear, front-facing headshot without shadows or accessories that obstruct the face. |
| 4 | Name Change Document (if applicable; original or certified copy) | When renewing a US passport by mail with a name change, submit the original or certified copy of the legal name change document, such as a marriage certificate or court order. This document is essential to ensure the passport reflects your current legal name accurately. |
| 5 | Passport Renewal Fee (check or money order) | The US passport renewal by mail requires submitting the appropriate fee, which must be paid via check or money order payable to the "U.S. Department of State." The current passport renewal fee for an adult is $130, while the fee for a minor under 16 years old is $100. |
| 6 | Self-Addressed Envelope (if required by mailing instructions) | A self-addressed envelope with proper postage is required when renewing a US passport by mail if specified in the mailing instructions, ensuring secure return of your new passport. This envelope must meet USPS size and weight standards to avoid processing delays. |
Understanding US Passport Renewal by Mail
What documents are needed for a US passport renewal by mail? A completed DS-82 form is essential, along with your most recent US passport. You must also submit a recent color passport photo that meets specific government standards.
Is proof of name change required for a US passport renewal by mail? Yes, if your name has changed since your last passport issuance. Acceptable documents include a marriage certificate or a court order verifying the legal change.
Do you need to include payment with your US passport renewal by mail application? Yes, payment for the renewal fee must be included, typically in the form of a check or money order. Exact fee amounts and acceptable payment methods are listed on the official State Department website.
Where should you mail your US passport renewal application? Renewal by mail applications must be sent to the address specified on the DS-82 form instructions. Using the correct mailing address helps ensure the timely processing of your renewal request.
Eligibility Criteria for Passport Renewal
To renew a US passport by mail, you must meet specific eligibility criteria. Your most recent passport should be undamaged, issued when you were age 16 or older, and within the last 15 years.
You must have been issued your current passport in your current name, or provide official documentation of a name change. The passport must have been issued in the United States. If you meet these requirements, you can complete the renewal process using Form DS-82 by mail.
When to Renew Your US Passport
| Document | Description |
|---|---|
| Completed Form DS-82 | Renewal Application for a U.S. Passport by Mail. Must be filled out accurately and signed. |
| Most Recent U.S. Passport | Submit your current or expired passport issued when you were age 16 or older, issued within the last 15 years, and in your current name. |
| Name Change Documents (if applicable) | Provide original or certified copies of legal name change documents such as marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. |
| Passport Photo | One color photograph, 2x2 inches, taken within the last six months, with a clear white background. |
| Payment | Check or money order payable to "U.S. Department of State" for the required renewal fee. |
| When to Renew Your US Passport | |
| Renew your U.S. passport if it is due to expire within six months to a year to avoid travel interruptions. Renewal by mail is available if your passport was issued when you were age 16 or older, within the last 15 years, and in your current name or you can provide legal documentation of a name change. Renewing early prevents delays caused by processing times and ensures your passport remains valid for visa and travel entry requirements. | |
Required Documents for Renewal by Mail
Renewing a US passport by mail requires specific documents to ensure a smooth process. These documents verify your identity and eligibility for renewal without an in-person visit.
- Completed Form DS-82 - This is the official application for passport renewal by mail, filled out accurately.
- Most recent US passport - Your current or expired passport must be submitted as proof of citizenship and identity.
- New passport photo - One recent color photograph meeting government standards is required for the new passport.
- Name change documentation (if applicable) - Legal documents such as a marriage certificate or court order proving a name change must be included if your name has changed since your last passport.
- Payment for renewal fees - Fees must be paid via check or money order included with your application to process your renewal.
Including all required documents ensures faster processing and avoids delays in receiving your renewed US passport by mail.
Completing the DS-82 Renewal Application Form
To renew a US passport by mail, completing the DS-82 Renewal Application Form correctly is essential. This form collects all necessary personal and passport information needed for the renewal process.
- Form Accessibility - The DS-82 form is available online for download or can be filled out electronically before printing.
- Required Information - You must provide personal details such as your full name, date of birth, passport number, and current address.
- Signature Requirement - Signing the DS-82 form is mandatory, verifying that the information provided is accurate and complete.
Photograph Specifications for Passport Renewal
For a US passport renewal by mail, the photograph must be a recent, color image taken within the last six months. The photo should measure 2 x 2 inches, with a clear, full-face view against a plain white or off-white background. The applicant's face must be fully visible, with neutral expression and both eyes open, ensuring no shadows or glare.
Fees and Payment Methods
To renew a US passport by mail, applicants must include the appropriate fees with their submission. The standard renewal fee is $130 for an adult passport book. Payment can be made by check or money order payable to the "U.S. Department of State."
Proper Packaging and Submission Guidelines
To renew a US passport by mail, applicants must include the completed Form DS-82, their most recent passport, a new passport photo, and the appropriate renewal fee. Proper packaging involves using a secure envelope that protects the documents from damage during transit.
Submission guidelines require the package to be clearly labeled with the applicant's name and return address. It is recommended to use a traceable delivery service to ensure the passport renewal application is safely received by the National Passport Processing Center.
Tracking Your Passport Renewal Application
Tracking your passport renewal application by mail is simple and convenient. You can monitor the status online using the official State Department's passport application status tool.
To track your application, enter your last name, date of birth, and the last four digits of your Social Security number. Updates typically appear within 7 to 10 business days after mailing your renewal documents.
What Documents Are Needed for a US Passport Renewal by Mail? Infographic
