It's That Time Again: Before It Expires, Get A Passport Renewal By Mail
When your United States passport renewal is due, there are a few ways you can take care of it. There are some cases in which you can renew it by mail. There are others in which you will have to make the application in person.
Pull out your existing passport first and take a look at it. It will need to be sent with your application package in order to renew by mail. If you do not actually have it, then you must apply for a new passport in person.
If your current passport is available as well as undamaged, you still my not be able to renew by mail. It must have been issued when you were 16 years old or more, and within the last 15 years. It also must have been issued in your current name or you must be able to send documentation with the application showing your legal name change.
When mailing in your application, you will also need to include your most recent passport, two passport photos, the current fee and any documentation to prove a name change such as a marriage certificate or court order. It is recommended that you mail your passport and application in a way that can be traced. It is also a good idea to package it securely so that it cannot be damaged while in transport.
Once your passport is renewed, it can be sent only to addresses with the United States or Canada. If you currently live outside of either of these countries, you will have to go to the American Embassy or Consulate that is closest to you. Also note that, if you are behind on child support payments, you may be unable to get a passport.
The processing time for mailed applications is variable. Generally speaking, it is about four to six weeks. If you urgently need a passport, you might have to go to an agency near you. This is suggested if you have international travel booked within the next couple of weeks for if you need United States passports within the next four weeks. These agencies see people on an appointment only basis.
If you have sent in your passport application already, the status of your application can be checked online. It may take a week after applying for the status to be available. If your passport has not arrived within one week of when you are due to travel, contact the National Passport Information Center.
Sometimes, an emergency comes up that requires you to travel with one to two days. If this occurs, you can make an appointment at a passport agency to get service immediately. You may have to provide proof of the emergency requiring your travel.
Many times, people wait until they actually have travel plans before checking if their US passport is current. It is much smarter to pay attention to when your passport expires. If your U.S. passport renewal date is approaching, get it taken care of as soon as possible. This way, you will avoid any problems if travel plans do crop up suddenly.
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