Renew us passport by mail

Renewing a US passport by mail is a convenient and cost-effective way to obtain a new passport. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you through the process:

Eligibility: You can renew your passport by mail if:

1. Your current passport is undamaged and not expired or expired less than 15 years ago.
2. You were at least 16 years old when your current passport was issued.
3. You can provide a valid form of photo identification (e.g., driver's license, government ID, or military ID).

Required Documents:

1. Form DS-82: Download and complete the Application for a Passport by Mail (Form DS-82) from the US Department of State's website or pick one up from a passport acceptance facility.
2. Old Passport: Include your current passport with the application.
3. Proof of US Citizenship: Provide one of the following:
   • Birth certificate (issued by the city, county, or state)
   • Naturalization certificate
   • Prior US passport
4. Proof of Identity: Provide one of the following:
   • Driver's license
   • Government-issued ID
   • Military ID
5. Photocopy of Both Sides of Your ID: Make a photocopy of both sides of your ID and include it with your application.
6. Passport Photo: Include one recent, color photograph that meets the Department of State's requirements.

Fees:

1. Application Fee: $110 for a adult passport book or $80 for a child's passport book (ages 16 and under).
2. Execution Fee: $35 for the acceptance agent's fee (paid to the acceptance facility).
3. Optional Expedited Service: $60.00 (paid to the Department of State) for expedited processing, which takes 2-3 weeks.

Instructions:

1. Fill out Form DS-82 and attach the required documents.
2. Sign the application in front of a witness, who must also sign and date the form.
3. Mail your application and supporting documents to:
   • National Passport Processing Center
   • Post Office Box 90112
   • Philadelphia, PA 19190-0112
4. Use a trackable delivery method, such as USPS Priority Mail or UPS, to ensure your application is received.
5. Wait for your new passport to arrive, which can take 6-8 weeks for regular processing or 2-3 weeks with expedited service.

Tips:

• Make sure to sign your application in front of a witness and have them sign and date the form.
• Use a black ink pen to sign your application.
• Do not staple or paperclip your documents together.
• Keep a copy of your application and supporting documents for your records.

By following these steps and providing the required documents, you should be able to successfully renew your US passport by mail.