How to Extend Your US Passport: Everything You Need to Know
Are you a frequent traveler who needs to extend your US passport? Maybe you have upcoming international trips planned and your passport is about to expire. Or perhaps you just like to be prepared and want to have a valid passport on hand in case an unexpected trip comes up. Whatever the reason, extending your US passport is a relatively simple process that can be done in a few easy steps.
In this article, we will walk you through the process of extending your US passport, including the requirements, fees, and timeline. We will also provide some tips and resources to help make the process as smooth as possible.
First, let’s review the requirements for extending your US passport. According to the US Department of State, you can renew your passport by mail if it meets the following criteria:
1. Your current passport is undamaged and can be submitted with your application.
2. Your current passport was issued when you were 16 years of age or older.
3. Your current passport was issued within the last 15 years.
4. Your current passport was issued in your current name, or you can legally document your name change.
If your passport does not meet these criteria, you will need to apply for a new passport in person at a Passport Acceptance Facility. However, if your passport does meet these criteria, you can proceed with renewing it by mail.
To extend your US passport by mail, you will need to complete Form DS-82, which is the Application for a US Passport by Mail. You can download this form from the US Department of State’s website or pick up a hard copy at a Passport Acceptance Facility. The form will ask for basic information such as your name, date of birth, and current passport details.
In addition to the completed application form, you will also need to include the following documents with your passport renewal application:
1. Your current, undamaged US passport.
2. A recent passport photo that meets the US Department of State’s guidelines.
3. The appropriate passport renewal fee.
As of 2022, the fee for renewing an adult passport book is $110. If you also need to renew your passport card, the fee is $130. You can pay this fee by check or money order made payable to the US Department of State.
Once you have gathered all of the required documents and fees, you can mail them to the address listed on the DS-82 form. Be sure to double-check that you have included everything before sending off your application to avoid delays in processing.
The timeline for renewing your US passport can vary depending on the volume of applications being processed. Generally, you can expect to receive your renewed passport within 4-6 weeks of mailing off your application. If you need your passport more quickly, you can pay an additional fee for expedited processing, which typically takes 2-3 weeks.
In addition to the standard passport renewal process, there are a few special considerations to keep in mind when extending your US passport. For example, if your passport was lost or stolen, you will need to report it to the US Department of State and follow a different process to get a new one.
Similarly, if your current passport is damaged, you may not be eligible to renew it by mail and will need to apply for a new passport in person. In these cases, it’s important to follow the specific guidelines provided by the US Department of State to ensure that your application is processed correctly.
In conclusion, extending your US passport is a straightforward process that can be done by mail in most cases. By following the requirements outlined by the US Department of State and submitting a complete application, you can ensure that your passport is renewed in a timely manner. Whether you have upcoming travel plans or just want to be prepared for future trips, having a valid passport is essential for international travel.
