subject: United States Passport Renewal: A Simple Summary [print this page] You see, passports renewals can be done by mail if you have an undamaged passport and if a few simple other rules are complied with. If you were over the age of 15 when you got your last passport, if the passport is not over 15 years old and if you have not had a name change since you got your passport, you are eligible to apply for a passport by mail.
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.
A lost, damaged or stolen passport can't be renewed through the mail. It must be done in person. You will need to complete an application except for the signature blank which will be done in the presence of the passport agent. Your social security card must be presented for proof of identity.
Proof of citizenship can be done by showing your existing passport. You may also present your naturalization papers or a certificate showing your citizenship. The valid and certified birth certificate is probably the most common type of passports documentation showing that you are a citizen of the United States.
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.
You must submit copies of your documentation on individual sheets of 8.5" by 11" white paper. The copies must be at least actual size, but they may be enlarged to readability. If there are two sides to the documentation, each side should appear on a separate page.
The passport fees must be sent in with the passport renewal application. These fees vary and you need to understand them. In order to purchase additional services related to the receipt of the passport, you will need to add additional fees. Some of the extra services include overnight delivery fees and expedited fees. Checks, credit cards and money orders are accepted forms of payment.
