Renewing an Expired Passport: A Step-by-Step Guide
Have you checked your passport lately and realized it has expired? Don’t panic! Renewing an expired passport is a straightforward process as long as you follow the necessary steps. In this guide, we will provide you with a step-by-step instruction on how to renew your expired passport and get ready for your next adventure.
Step 1: Check the Expiration Date
The first step in renewing an expired passport is to check the expiration date. Passports are valid for ten years for adults and five years for minors under the age of 16. If your passport has expired within the last five years, you can renew it by following the simple steps outlined in this guide. However, if your passport has been expired for more than five years, you will need to apply for a new passport instead of renewing the old one.
Step 2: Gather Required Documents
Before you start the renewal process, make sure you have all the necessary documents on hand. You will need the following documents to renew your expired passport:
– Your expired passport
– A completed passport renewal form (Form DS-82)
– A recent passport photo
– Proof of your identity (such as a driver’s license)
– Proof of your citizenship (such as a birth certificate)
– The renewal fee
Step 3: Fill Out the Passport Renewal Form
The next step is to fill out the passport renewal form (Form DS-82). You can download the form from the official website of the U.S. Department of State or pick up a copy at your local post office. The form will ask for basic information such as your name, date of birth, and contact information. Make sure you fill out the form accurately and completely to avoid any delays in the renewal process.
Step 4: Get a Recent Passport Photo
You will need a recent passport photo to submit along with your renewal application. The photo must meet the requirements set by the U.S. Department of State, including being in color, taken within the last six months, and showing your full face and both ears. You can have your passport photo taken at a local pharmacy, post office, or photo studio. Make sure you bring a copy of the passport photo requirements to ensure that the photo meets all the criteria.
Step 5: Gather Proof of Identity and Citizenship
To renew your expired passport, you will need to provide proof of your identity and citizenship. A valid driver’s license or state ID can serve as proof of your identity, while a birth certificate or naturalization certificate can serve as proof of your citizenship. Make sure you photocopy these documents and submit them along with your passport renewal form.
Step 6: Pay the Renewal Fee
The final step in renewing your expired passport is to pay the renewal fee. The fee for renewing an adult passport is $110, while the fee for renewing a minor passport is $80. You can pay the fee by check or money order made payable to the U.S. Department of State. Make sure you include the payment along with your renewal application to avoid any delays in processing.
Step 7: Mail Your Renewal Application
Once you have gathered all the necessary documents and filled out the renewal form, it’s time to mail your renewal application to the U.S. Department of State. Make sure you send your application via a secure and traceable mail service to ensure that it reaches its destination safely. You can expect to receive your renewed passport within 4-6 weeks of submitting your application.
In conclusion, renewing an expired passport is a simple and straightforward process as long as you follow the necessary steps outlined in this guide. By checking the expiration date, gathering the required documents, filling out the renewal form, getting a recent passport photo, providing proof of identity and citizenship, paying the renewal fee, and mailing your renewal application, you can renew your expired passport and get ready for your next adventure. Don’t let an expired passport hold you back from exploring the world – renew it today and start planning your next trip!
