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How Do You Renew a Passport?

The COVID-19 pandemic kept travelers at home for much of 2020, but as the world begins to open back up, many people are reaching for their passports. Unfortunately, many people are also finding that those passports are expired. Renewing a passport is a relatively simple process, but it does take time and attention to detail. 

If your trip is coming up on the calendar, you’ll want to start the renewal process as soon as possible. If you’ve never renewed your passport, Pak Mail is here to help. Let’s take a closer look at the ins and outs of renewing a U.S. passport.

Am I eligible to renew my passport?

Before you begin the renewal process, make sure that you’re eligible to renew your passport. You are eligible for renewal if the following conditions are true of your current or expired passport:

●    Issued after your 16th birthday
●    Issued more recently than 15 years ago
●    Not damaged, lost, or stolen

If your current or expired passport was issued in a previous name, you must also supply legal documentation of your name change. If you do not meet these conditions, you will have to apply for a new passport. If you’re confused about your eligibility, or you have questions about documentation, you can always visit a Pak Mail location. 

How do you renew a passport?

You can renew a passport by mail or in-person appointment at a passport acceptance facility. While you can fill out renewal forms online, you cannot renew a passport online. Renewal by mail is only possible if these conditions are met:

  • you can submit your passport with your application
  • passport is undamaged other than standard wear and tear
  • passport was issued when you were 16 years of age or older
  • passport was issued in the past 15 years
  • passport was issued in your current name or you have documentation of a name change

If you are unable to renew by mail, you can schedule an in-person appointment. Once your appointment is scheduled, you will need to print and fill out the DS-82 application. Other required items for renewal include a photo, fees, your most recent passport, and any documentation of a name change if applicable. 

If you need your passport renewed sooner than the routine 6-12 weeks of processing time, you can request expedited service by mail or in-person appointment. Expedited service ranges from 2-6 weeks, requires proof of international travel dates, and includes a $60 fee.

How much does it cost to renew a passport?

The application fee for renewing a passport book is $110. The application fee for renewing a passport card is $30. Expedited service includes an extra $60 fee.

If your application for renewal is denied for any reason, you will have to pay the application fee again to reapply. That’s why it’s important to get everything right the first time. From the application form to the passport photo and supporting documents, the requirements for official renewal can be confusing and exhausting. Let the experts at Pak Mail take care of the details, so you can get your passport renewed in time for your next big adventure. Visit a Pak Mail in your area today to get started.
 

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