If an international trip is coming up and your passport expires within six months, it’s time to get started on renewing your US passport. The renewal process requires a few simple steps, but planning ahead is important to get your new travel documents in time. Missing even one of these steps in time will determine whether you’re sipping pina coladas on the beach or throwing the whole trip away for a mishap.
This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to smoothly renew your passport.
Table of Contents
Understanding Passport Renewal Eligibility
The first step is confirming if you meet the eligibility criteria for US passport renewal. You can renew your passport if your most recent US passport was issued when you were age 16 or older, was issued within the last 15 years, and is undamaged.
As long as your passport satisfies these conditions, you can utilize the renewal application DS-82. Important to note – if your passport is expired, you still qualify for renewal as long as it was issued within the last 15 years.
Gathering Required Application Materials
With eligibility confirmed, you’ll need to pull together several documents to include with your renewal application. First is a new passport photo meeting specifications. You’ll also need your most recent undamaged passport as well as proof of US citizenship like a previous passport or certified birth certificate.
It’s equally important to fully complete application form DS-82 accurately. Don’t forget to sign your application – unsigned forms are among the most common reasons for renewal delays.
Deciding Whether to Renew by Mail or Appointment
Once prepared with application materials, decide whether to renew by mail or at a passport acceptance facility. Renewing by mail is convenient but currently results in longer wait times of up to 18 weeks. Alternatively, scheduling an appointment allows hand-delivering your application which can provide a passport within 8 to 11 weeks on average. Those needing travel documents even sooner may consider expediting the process.
Expediting Your US Passport Renewal
If you have international travel planned within four to six weeks, expediting could be worthwhile. There are a few expedited renewal options. Opting for expedited processing through a passport agency leads to passports issued within three weeks on average.
Using private expediting US passport renewal services available in the US can sometimes renew your passport within as little as four business days. Expediting requires additional fees on top of application costs but can be worthwhile for imminent travel plans.
Monitoring Your Passport Renewal Application Status
Once submitted, you’ll want to monitor the status of your renewal application. With mail submissions, sign up for online status updates using your passport number. Biweekly emails keep you informed on where your application is in the review process.
Those applying in person receive a receipt with application status details as well. Having your application details on hand allows addressing any issues quickly if they arise before your travel date.
Receiving Your New Passport
As long as there are no application defects, your new passport should arrive with plenty of time prior to travel. Passports are mailed within three business days of approval. Consider signing up for expedited shipping if needing documents very quickly. Passports can also potentially be picked up at the acceptance facility used for your renewal if submitted in person.
US Passport Renewal: In Conclusion
With thorough preparation and planning, renewing your US passport shouldn’t cause major disruptions or stress when international trips are on the calendar. Following the guidelines above will help you through the renewal process with ease. Just be sure to submit all required materials correctly and provide adequate processing time to avoid any last-minute passport issues.