What To Know
- If your passport has been lost or stolen, you will need to follow a different application process.
- A passport card is a smaller, more convenient alternative to a passport book.
- Can I renew my passport if I have a criminal record.
Renewing your passport is a crucial step for maintaining your travel flexibility and ensuring it remains valid for international trips. The passport renewal application process can be straightforward if you have the right information and preparation. This comprehensive guide will walk you through every aspect of the passport renewal application, from eligibility requirements to the necessary steps and timeline.
Eligibility for Passport Renewal
To be eligible for passport renewal, you must meet the following criteria:
- Your current passport must be expired or expiring within six months.
- You must have been at least 16 years old when you obtained your previous passport.
- You must have been a U.S. citizen at the time of your last passport issuance.
- You must not have any outstanding arrest warrants or criminal convictions that could affect your passport eligibility.
Required Documents for Passport Renewal
The following documents are required for passport renewal:
- Completed passport renewal application (Form DS-82)
- Original passport
- Passport-sized photo that meets the U.S. Department of State requirements
- Proof of identity (e.g., driver’s license, birth certificate)
- Proof of citizenship (e.g., birth certificate, naturalization certificate)
Steps for Passport Renewal Application
1. Gather the Necessary Documents: Collect all the required documents listed above.
2. Complete the Application: Fill out the passport renewal application (Form DS-82) accurately and legibly.
3. Include a Passport-Sized Photo: Attach a recent passport-sized photo that meets the U.S. Department of State’s specifications.
4. Sign and Mail the Application: Sign the application and mail it to the appropriate passport processing center along with the required documents and fees.
5. Track Your Application: Once you mail your application, you can track its status online or by calling the National Passport Information Center.
Timeline for Passport Renewal
The processing time for passport renewal varies depending on the application type and the time of year. Typically, it takes:
- Routine Service: 4-8 weeks
- Expedited Service: 2-3 weeks
- Urgent Service: 24 hours or less (additional fees apply)
Fees for Passport Renewal
The fees for passport renewal vary depending on the application type and processing time. The current fees are as follows:
- Routine Service: $130
- Expedited Service: $160
- Urgent Service: $60 (in addition to the expedited service fee)
Special Considerations for Passport Renewal
- Name Change: If you have changed your name since your last passport issuance, you will need to provide legal documentation of the name change (e.g., marriage certificate, court order).
- Lost or Stolen Passport: If your passport has been lost or stolen, you will need to follow a different application process.
- Damaged Passport: If your passport has been damaged, you will need to submit the damaged passport along with your renewal application.
Alternatives to Passport Renewal
In some cases, you may not need to renew your passport. Consider the following alternatives:
- Passport Card: A passport card is a smaller, more convenient alternative to a passport book. It is valid for land and sea travel to Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Bermuda.
- Global Entry Card: A Global Entry card allows expedited entry into the United States through automated kiosks. It also provides expedited clearance through U.S. Customs and Border Protection.
Common Questions and Answers
Q: Can I renew my passport online?
A: No, passport renewal applications must be submitted by mail or in person.
Q: How do I know if my passport is expiring soon?
A: Check the expiration date on your passport. If it expires within six months, you should start the renewal process.
Q: What is the difference between routine, expedited, and urgent service?
A: Routine service is the standard processing time for passport renewal. Expedited service takes 2-3 weeks, while urgent service takes 24 hours or less.
Q: Can I renew my passport if I have a criminal record?
A: It depends on the nature of your criminal record. Some convictions may affect your passport eligibility.
Q: What should I do if I lose my passport while it’s being processed?
A: Contact the National Passport Information Center immediately to report the lost passport and request a replacement.
