Individuals are allowed to renew US passports by mail if they got theirs for the first time in the past 15 years, if they were at least 16 years old when it was first issued to them, if the passport is not yet damaged, and if they did not change their name. Compared to first-time passport applications, passport renewal is supposed to be easier and faster. This option is available for individuals who lost, damaged, or misplaced their passport, changed their name, or if their passport was stolen.
The passport card
It is important that individuals renew US passports if they have travel plans to avoid problems. If you are previously owned a passport book, you can have the option to apply for a passport card using the DS-82 form. This passport card can already serve as your renewed passport. If you are a US citizen living abroad, you need to renew your passport at the nearest US Consulate or Embassy.
Where do you live?
US citizens living in Canada who need to renew US passports can also apply by mail using the DS-82 form. However, the payment should be done in US dollars. If a passport is renewed by mail in the United States, it can only be mailed to Canadian and US addresses. Make sure you indicate the correct address in order for you to obtain your new passport properly.
The damaged passport
A passport that has been changed or mutilated should immediately be replaced because it is at risk for being invalidated. Furthermore, it puts you at risk for prosecution under the law known as Section 1543 of Title 22 of the US Code. However, if your passport is damaged, mutilated, or altered, you need to apply in person and not by mail.
Keep your passport valid
Whether or not you are an avid traveler, you need to make sure that your passport is renewed even a few months before its expiration date. There are also countries that require you to have a passport that is valid for at least 6 months prior to your trip along with 2 to 4 blank stamp/visa pages. Remember that there are some airline policies that may not allow you to go on board if you are not able to meet with the requirements.
More passport renewal tips
Visit the US Passport Express to learn more on how to renew US passports. Our company specializes in passport expediting and visa application services. Using our services can make the renewal of your passport easier and more hassle-free. We guarantee that you can get your new passport the next day once we receive your application.
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