subject: Various Facts Regarding Us Passport Renewal [print this page] Passport renewal is easiest to do it by mailPassport renewal is easiest to do it by mail. It can also be done in person. In order to meet the requirements to renew by mail, you must have been more than 15 years of age when the existing passport was issued, the existing passport must be undamaged, and it must be less than 15 years old. The final requirement for passports renewal by mail is that you must not have had a name change since the previous passport was issued.
You can apply for a passport card, if it is your first passport card by mail and if you meet all the mail-in qualifications. If you are behind in child support, you will not be able to get your passport. If you are mailing your papers, it is best to mail them in a secure envelope. You will also want to mail them in a traceable manner.
If your passport has been damaged, lost or stolen, you must apply for a new passport in person. The application and signature are prepared in the same way as with the original passport application. Don't sign until the passport agency representative approves it. You must show your valid social security card for approval of the application.
You must also prove you are a citizen of the United States. A previous passport is the simplest way to prove citizenship. You may also provide a certified birth certificate, a certificate of naturalization or a certificate of citizenship. Be sure to bring documents with you to the office of the passport application forms agency to speed the process and avoid the necessity of a second visit.
Identification documents are needed as well. The passport agency can accept military ID or government ID cards. A driver's license that is current will suffice, as will an existing passport. Sometimes, you will need to find secondary ID methods, such as getting a person to vouch for you. The other person must be able to prove identity in this instance.
All forms of identification must be photocopied on white 8.5-inch by 11-inch paper. The ID can be expanded to fit the paper size, but the ID cannot be reduced to a smaller size. Each form must be presented on a separate piece of paper. You cannot use both sides of the paper.
All required fees for the passport services you are ordering must be submitted with the documentation and application. You will usually be charged for the application approval by the passport agent. In addition, you must pay for the passport itself. Expedited delivery times to or from the passport issuing office will cost extra. You can submit fees using checks, credit card or money orders. Be aware that personal checks must clear the bank before the passport is issued.
