subject: How To Renew Passport Documents Before They Are Expired [print this page] If you renew U.SIf you renew U.S. passport papers before the date of expiration, it is very easy to accomplish. This application process can be completed by mail. All you need for a mail-in passport renewal is the application form, your passport, a mailing envelope and two photographs.
Locate your current passport. Don't be concerned about sending it off. It will be returned to you when the new passport comes back to you. As long as you don't need the passport during the period when the document is in the mail, you will be fine. If you know you will need the new or existing passport more rapidly, you should probably arrange for expedited service.
The passport photo you submit with the application must be current. Passport photos are available in many locations nowadays and are inexpensive. The photo format is that it must be a 2-inch by 2-inch picture with a white or near white background. The photo must show you full face. You can't wear headgear. If you must wear glasses normally, wear them for the photograph. Tinted glasses or sunglasses are not acceptable unless you have a doctor's statement that requires tinted lenses.
The application form for the passport document is available online. You can find it at the United States Department of State website. Download the application form there and print it out in paper form. Complete all the necessary information on the form.
You should determine if a passport card is something you want to obtain. A passport card is helpful for travel to locations such as Canada, Mexico or the Bahamas where a formal passport book is not required. The card is an alternative that may be somewhat safer to carry. Since extra fees are involved, you must decide if the fees are worthwhile for your travel plans.
How quickly you need your passport returned will determine the amount of money that must be sent along with the passport application. Expedited service and overnight delivery service obviously cost more. You must determine whether you want to pay for a passport card. The correct amount of money will be instrumental in whether or not your application is approved and returned to you quickly.
Payment of the fees for processing and the document preparation can be made in any of various formats. You may send a personal check, so long as the name and address on the check matches the information on the pasports forms. The payment of a valid check will be held to allow for the check to clear. If there is a different address or name, you would be better served to purchase and submit a money order. Or, you can make payment using a debit or credit card.
