Renewing your passport by mail is a convenient option for eligible U.S. citizens. Instead of visiting a passport agency or acceptance facility in person, you can send in your application from the comfort of your home. Knowing exactly where to mail your passport renewal is crucial to ensure your application is processed efficiently and without delays. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of where to mail your passport renewal, ensuring a smooth and successful process.
Who Can Renew by Mail?
Before figuring out where to mail your renewal, confirm you are eligible to renew your passport by mail. You are generally eligible if your most recent passport:
- Was issued when you were age 16 or older.
- Was issued within the last 15 years.
- Is currently in your possession.
- Was issued in your current name (or you can legally document your name change).
If you meet all these criteria, you can proceed with renewing your passport by mail using Form DS-82. If not, you may need to apply in person using Form DS-11.
Gathering Your Documents for Mail-in Renewal
To renew your passport by mail, you’ll need to assemble the following documents:
- Form DS-82: Complete and sign the Form DS-82, U.S. Passport Renewal Application online or download and fill it out. Ensure you fill out all sections accurately.
- Your Most Recent Passport: Submit your most recent passport. This passport will be canceled and returned to you separately from your new passport.
- A New Passport Photo: Provide one passport photo that meets the U.S. Department of State’s requirements. Photos must be 2×2 inches in size, in color, taken within the last 6 months, and against a white or off-white background.
- Payment for Passport Fees: Calculate the correct passport renewal fee. You can pay by check or money order made payable to “U.S. Department of State.” Do not send cash.
Where to Mail Your Passport Renewal Application
The mailing address for your passport renewal depends on your location and processing speed preference. It is critical to use the correct address to avoid processing delays. The U.S. Department of State has specific mailing addresses for routine and expedited services.
For Routine Service (Check Processing Times):
Check the official website for the most current mailing address as these can change. Typically, for routine service, you will mail your application to the National Passport Processing Center corresponding to your current address. As of the current update, common addresses are:
National Passport Processing Center
P.O. Box 90155
Philadelphia, PA 19190-0155
National Passport Processing Center
P.O. Box 640155
Irving, TX 75064-0155
For Expedited Service (For Faster Processing):
If you are paying for expedited service, use a different address to ensure faster processing. Again, always verify the most current address on the official website. A common expedited service address is:
National Passport Processing Center
P.O. Box 90955
Philadelphia, PA 19190-0955
National Passport Processing Center
P.O. Box 640955
Irving, TX 75064-0955
Important Mailing Tips:
- Use Trackable Mail: It is highly recommended to mail your application using a trackable mail service like USPS Certified Mail with return receipt, FedEx, or UPS. This allows you to confirm when your application was received.
- Double-Check the Address: Before sealing your envelope, double-check that you have written the correct mailing address based on your service type (routine or expedited) and current guidance from the State Department website.
- Do Not Fold Your Documents: Mail your documents flat in a large envelope to avoid creases, especially for your passport photo.
After Mailing Your Renewal Application
Once you have mailed your passport renewal application, you can check its status online using the Online Passport Status System. You will need your application locator number, which you can find on your Form DS-82 worksheet.
Renewing your passport by mail is a straightforward process when you know where to send your application and have prepared all required documents correctly. Always refer to the official U.S. Department of State website for the most up-to-date information and mailing addresses to ensure a successful passport renewal experience.
