Passport Renewal Made Easy

It is much easier to renew a passport than it is to apply for one so it is in your best interest to take the few extra minutes, pay the fee and renew your passport when the time comes.

Application

Download and print Form DS-82 (see Resources). Fill out the form in blue or black ink. Sign and date the application on the first page. If you prefer to pick up a form, you can get one from a passport-acceptance facility (see Resources).

Documentation

Gather the documentation needed to renew your passport. This includes your expired passport and two new passport photos. You may use your expired passport as documentation for renewal for as long as five years. After that you must fill out a new application. If your name has changed since your last passport because of marriage, you must provide your marriage certificate. It is important that you send only original documents. Photocopies will not be accepted and will be returned to you.

Fees

Write out a check or get a money order for $60. This is the renewal fee in 2009. Make the payment out to "U.S. Department of State." Write "Passport fees" on the memo line. Mail the money with your application. It is recommended that you pay for delivery confirmation because you are sending original documents.

Check the Status

Check the status of your passport renewal any time. It usually takes between four and eight weeks to receive your new passport in the mail. You can check on the progress by calling (877) 4-USA-PPT between 8 a.m. and 10 p.m. Eastern time Monday through Friday. You can also check your application status online (see Resources). You will need to input your last name, date of birth and the last four digits of your Social Security number.