# How to Apply for a Passport Renewal

## Should You Apply for a Passport Renewal by Mail?

YES, If You…Already have a passport that is not damaged; and

Received it within the past 15 years; and

Were over age 16 when it was issued; and

Still have the same name as in passport (or you can legally document

your name change).

NOTES:

Residents abroad should renew their passports at nearest U.S. Embassy

or U.S. Consulate.

Passports renewed by mail in the U.S. can only be forwarded to U.S.

addresses.

If you mutilate or alter your U.S. passport, you may invalidate it and

risk possible prosecution under the law (Section 1543 of Title 22 of

the U.S. Code).

If your passport has been mutilated, altered or damaged, you cannot

apply by mail. You must apply in person. (See the Travel Document titled How to Apply in Person.)

## If you can, then How Do You Renew Your Passport By Mail?

1. Complete Application For Passport By Mail, form DS-82

Click here to download the DS-82 Application form.

Be sure to sign and date your application.

2. Attach to it:

Your most recent passport

Two identical passport photographs

Include the fee.

If you need your passport urgently, you may request Expedited Service.

(Click here for information about Expedited Service.)

NOTE: Your previous passport will be returned to you with your new

passport.

NOTE: If you travel extensively, you may request a larger, 48-page

passport at no additional cost. To do so, please attach a signed request

for a 48-page passport to your application.

3. If your name has changed since your passport was issued:

Enclose a certified copy of the legal document specifying your name

change (e.g. marriage certificate, divorce decree, adoption decree, or

court order).

No photocopies accepted.

NOTE: If your name has changed by other means, you must apply in person.

(See the Travel Document titled How to Apply in Person.)

4. Mail in a padded envelope to:

National Passport Center

P.O. Box 371971

Pittsburgh, PA 15250-9971

5. If you use an overnight delivery service that does not deliver to a

post office box, then send it to:

Passport Services - Lockbox

Attn: Passport Supervisor 371971

500 Ross Street, Rm. 154-0670

Pittsburgh, PA 15250-9971

NOTE: Include a prepaid overnight return envelope. Please note that

overnight service will not speed up processing time unless the $60 fee for

expedited service is also included. (Click here for information on

Expedited Service.)

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