Renewing a U.S. passport by mail requires meeting specific eligibility criteria and submitting a complete application package. The process is designed for adults who already possess a valid or recently expired passport that meets certain conditions. Applicants must use Form DS-82, provide a recent passport photo, include their most recent passport, and pay the required renewal fee. Processing times typically range from 6 weeks to 3 months, so early renewal is strongly recommended, especially for those with upcoming travel plans.

Key requirements for passport renewal by mail include:

• Eligibility: Your previous passport must have been issued when you were 16 or older, within the last 15 years, and not damaged or lost. Name changes require legal documentation ^[3][6].
• Required Documents: Completed Form DS-82, one 2x2-inch color passport photo, your most recent passport, and payment for the $130 renewal fee ^[3][7].
• Processing Time: Standard renewal takes approximately 6 weeks, though expedited options may be available for urgent travel ^[5][9].
• Additional Considerations: Some countries require passports to be valid for at least six months beyond entry, so check destination requirements before renewing ^[3].

Passport Renewal by Mail: Requirements and Process

Eligibility Criteria for Mail Renewal

To renew a U.S. passport by mail, applicants must meet strict eligibility requirements. The most critical factor is the condition and issuance date of your previous passport. You can only renew by mail if your passport was issued when you were 16 or older, within the last 15 years, and remains undamaged. If your passport was issued more than 15 years ago, when you were under 16, or is damaged, you must apply in person using Form DS-11 instead ^[3][6].

Additional eligibility rules include:

• Your previous passport must be in your possession. If lost or stolen, you cannot renew by mail and must report it using Form DS-64 ^[8].
• The passport must not be significantly damaged (e.g., water damage, torn pages, or missing covers) ^[3].
• If your name has changed since your last passport was issued, you must provide legal documentation such as a marriage certificate or court order ^[5][6].
• Passport cards can also be renewed by mail, even if it is your first card, as long as you already have a valid passport book ^[8].

The U.S. Department of State emphasizes that applicants who do not meet these criteria must apply in person. For example, if your passport was issued before your 16th birthday—even if it was only a few months prior—you are ineligible for mail renewal and must submit Form DS-11 at an acceptance facility ^[6].

Application Process and Required Documents

The mail renewal process requires submitting a complete application package to the address specified on Form DS-82. The package must include the form itself, a recent passport photo, your most recent passport, and payment for the renewal fee. Here’s a detailed breakdown of each component:

• Form DS-82: This is the official renewal application. It must be filled out legibly in black ink, with no corrections or cross-outs. The form requires personal information, travel plans (if applicable), and a declaration of eligibility. Applicants must sign and date the form after printing it ^[6][10].
• Passport Photo: One 2x2-inch color photo taken within the last 6 months must be included. The photo must meet strict requirements: white or off-white background, full-face view, and no hats or uniforms (unless for religious or medical reasons). Many pharmacies, post offices, and shipping stores offer passport photo services ^[3][6].
• Most Recent Passport: Your previous passport must be submitted with the application. It will be canceled and returned to you with your new passport, typically in separate mailings ^[6].
• Name Change Documentation: If your name has changed since your last passport was issued, you must include a certified copy of the legal name change document (e.g., marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order) ^[5][6].
• Payment: The renewal fee is $130 for a passport book, payable via check or money order made out to the "U.S. Department of State." Some applicants may also pay online through the U.S. government’s secure payment site ^[7].

Once the application package is complete, it should be mailed using a trackable delivery method, such as USPS Priority Mail or a courier service. Processing times average 6 weeks, though this can vary based on demand. Applicants are advised to check the status of their application online after submission ^[5][9].