Looking for answers to questions about the U.S. passport renewal process? You are not the only one. We receive several questions every day about how to get a passport renewed for both adults and children. This article will provide you with answers to some of the more common questions that are sent to us by U.S. citizens who travel internationally.
What are the requirements for renewing a passport by mail?
The State Department has established specific criteria concerning who can and cannot get a renewal by mail. What are the criteria? To begin with, it is necessary that you be able to send your most recent passport. This means that the passport not be damaged or mutilated in any way.
Another criterion is that your travel document had to have been issued to you within the last 15 years. This means that it is possible to get it renewed even after it has expired. Of course, if it was issued when you were a minor then you cannot get it renewed by mail. You will have to apply for a new United States passport by appearing at an application acceptance facility and submitting form DS-11.
You can even apply to renew a passport by mail if your name has changed as long as you can provide an original or certified copy of your marriage certificate or the government-issued document that serves as proof to your legal name change under federal or state law.
When should I apply for a passport renewal?
Applicants are encouraged to send the application to renew a passport approximately nine months before the date of expiration. There are two reasons for this. First of all, it allows ample time for the process to be completed. Also, it allows you to always have in your possession a passport with at least 6 months validity remaining in it. This is the amount of time many countries require exist in your travel document before they will issue a travel visa.
Waiting until close to the expiration date or your passport actually expires could result in the need to pay extra fees if you need to have it renewed with urgency. It is recommended that you renew it early. You can even apply for a renewal more than nine months before the expiration date but this is not necessary.
What do I need to get my passport renewed?
Along with your most recent, undamaged passport, you are require to submit the completed application form DS-82, two identical photos that are 2×2 inches and proof of your name change if that is the case. Of course, you also have to send payment for the application fee.
How long does it take to get a passport renewed?
It depends on how quickly you need to get it. Applicants have two options when renewing a passport by mail. Regular processing of an application takes 4-6 weeks. Expediting the process takes 2-3 weeks. You have to pay an extra fee if you request expedited service. The time required to process an application can change according to the demand. Peak travel periods and launching of new requirements can result in the extension of processing times.
These are just a few of the more frequently asked questions concerning passport renewals. They should, however, provide you with a basic understanding of the requirements to get your travel document renewed.
About the author of this article:
Visit U.S. Passport Service Guide, the experts in expedited passports for application and instructions for fast passport renewals.
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