How to Renew Your U.S. (American) Passport by Mail (2025 Step-by-Step Guide)

Shruti Lal
Jul 30
3 min read

Updated: Aug 28

Renewing your U.S. passport doesn't have to be complicated. In this step-by-step guide, we walk you through the entire mail-in process using Form DS-82, making it easy to complete from the comfort of your home.

Step 1: Check Your Eligibility

To be eligible to renew by mail, your most recent passport must:

Be undamaged
Have been issued within the last 15 years
Have been issued when you were 16 or older
Be in your current name (or you must submit a legal name change document)

If you meet these criteria, you're ready to move on.

Step 2: Fill Out the DS-82 Form

Visit travel.state.gov and select "Renew by Mail." Use the online filler tool to complete the DS-82 form. Print the completed form and sign it.

If you're applying for the first time, use Form DS-11. For corrections, use DS-5504. In this guide, we focus on Form DS-82.

You will:

Fill in your personal and contact details
Provide information about your current passport
Specify whether you're renewing a passport book, card, or both
Confirm if you’re requesting any changes (e.g., name change)
Review your information before printing and signing

Make sure to print single-sided and have Adobe software installed for the form to display correctly.

Step 3: Submit Your Most Recent Passport

Include your most recent passport in the application package. If you’re renewing both the passport book and card, submit both.

Step 4: Name Change Documents (If Needed)

If your name has changed due to marriage, divorce, adoption, or court order, include original certified documents such as a marriage certificate or court decree. Photocopies are not accepted.

These documents will be returned to you separately from your new passport.

Step 5: Attach a Passport-Sized Photo

Include one recent passport photo (2x2 inches), taken within the last 6 months.

Plain white background
No glasses, uniforms, or hats (unless for religious reasons with a signed statement)
Neutral expression, direct gaze

Staple all four corners of the photo to the form in the designated area.

Step 6: Pay the Processing Fees

Fees as of 2025:

$130 for a passport book (age 16+)
$30 for a passport card
$160 for both
$60 for expedited service
$22 for 1-2 day return shipping

Make your check or money order payable to: U.S. Department of State Do not send cash. Include your full name and date of birth on the memo line.

Step 7: Mail Your Application Package

Use USPS only. Packages sent via FedEx, UPS, or others will be returned.

Mailing addresses:

If you live in CA, FL, IL, MN, NY, TX, mail to: National Passport Processing Center, Irving, TX
All other states + Canada: National Passport Processing Center, Philadelphia, PA
For expedited service: use the Philadelphia Expedited Address

Canadians must use Canada Post only.

Write "EXPEDITE" on the envelope if using expedited service.

Step 8: Track Your Application

After 2 weeks, go to passportstatus.state.gov to track your application. You can also sign up for email updates during your application process.

Checklist Before Mailing:

Completed and signed DS-82 form
Most recent passport
One passport photo (2x2 inches)
Certified name change document (if applicable)
Check or money order with correct fee

Use a paper clip to attach documents—do not staple the pages together.

Common Questions:

What counts as normal wear and tear?

Minor creases or page bending. Damage includes tears, water stains, missing pages, or a hole punch.

Can I renew at an acceptance facility?

No. Mail-in renewals must be sent directly.

Can I apply for a card if I already have a passport?

Yes. You can apply for one or both.

Can I send multiple applications together?

Yes, just ensure each has its own form and fee.

What if I’m asked to resubmit my form?

The most common reasons are missing signatures, photos, incorrect fees, or ineligible documents. You’ll receive a letter with correction instructions.

Book your flight or hotel :

Book tours and buy tickets to the museums, monuments, parks, etc.

Buy travel gear :

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