What To Know
- Ensure you have all the necessary documents, including your completed Form DS-82, a passport photo, and a check or money order for the application fee.
- Drop your sealed envelope into a designated Priority Mail mailbox or at a post office.
- You can also sign up for email or text notifications to receive updates on the progress of your renewal.
Yes, you can send your passport renewal application via Priority Mail. This service offered by the United States Postal Service (USPS) provides faster delivery times and tracking options, making it an ideal choice for urgent passport renewals.
Benefits of Using Priority Mail
- Fast Delivery: Priority Mail typically delivers within 1-3 business days, significantly faster than standard mail.
- Tracking: You can track your renewal application online, providing peace of mind and allowing you to monitor its progress.
- Insurance: Priority Mail includes up to $100 of insurance coverage in case of loss or damage.
How to Send Your Passport Renewal Priority Mail
1. Gather Required Documents: Ensure you have all the necessary documents, including your completed Form DS-82, a passport photo, and a check or money order for the application fee.
2. Choose a Priority Mail Envelope: Select a Priority Mail envelope that is large enough to fit all your documents comfortably.
3. Address the Envelope: Clearly address the envelope to the National Passport Processing Center in Philadelphia, PA.
4. Pay for Postage: Purchase Priority Mail postage at your local post office or online.
5. Mail Your Application: Drop your sealed envelope into a designated Priority Mail mailbox or at a post office.
Tracking Your Application
Once you have mailed your application, you can track its status online using the tracking number provided on your receipt. You can also sign up for email or text notifications to receive updates on the progress of your renewal.
Processing Times
The processing time for passport renewals varies depending on the time of year and the volume of applications received. However, using Priority Mail can help expedite the process by ensuring faster delivery to the processing center.
Expedited Processing
If you need your passport urgently, you can opt for expedited processing, which can reduce the processing time to 2-3 weeks. To request expedited processing, you must submit Form DS-82 and pay an additional fee.
Passport Delivery Options
Once your passport is approved, you can choose from several delivery options, including:
- Regular Mail: This option is free but takes longer to deliver (typically 1-2 weeks).
- Priority Mail: This option costs more than regular mail but provides faster delivery (typically 1-3 business days).
- Express Mail: This is the fastest delivery option (typically 1-2 business days) but also the most expensive.
Answers to Your Most Common Questions
Q: How much does it cost to send a passport renewal Priority Mail?
A: The cost of Priority Mail varies depending on the weight and size of your envelope. You can check the USPS website for current rates.
Q: Can I send my passport renewal application Priority Mail from any post office?
A: Yes, you can send your application from any post office that offers Priority Mail services.
Q: Do I need to include a return envelope with my passport renewal application?
A: No, the National Passport Processing Center will provide a pre-addressed envelope for returning your new passport.
