Can I Apply for Passport Renewal at the Post Office? - Comprehensive Guide

Yes, you can apply for passport renewal through some post offices in the United States, provided you meet certain eligibility criteria. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the passport renewal process via the post office and offer tips and essential information to ensure a smooth application experience.

Eligibility for Passport Renewal by Mail

To renew your passport by mail, you must meet specific criteria. These include:

Your existing passport is undamaged and can be submitted with your application. The passport was issued when you were 16 years of age or older. The passport was issued within the last 15 years. The passport was issued in your current name, or you can legally document a name change.

Steps to Renew Your Passport by Mail

Application Form

To get started, you need to complete Form DS-82, the Application for a U.S. Passport by Mail. This form can typically be filled out online, printed, and signed. Ensure that you have all the required documents and information before you begin.

Payment

To cover the renewal fee, include a check or money order made out to Miscellaneous Fees, Washington, D.C.. Make sure the check or money order is for the exact amount, as partial payments may result in delays or additional processing fees.

Mailing

Once your application form, most recent passport, and payment are ready, place them in an envelope and mail them to the address specified on the form. This is usually the National Passport Information Center (NPIC).

Procedures if You Don't Meet Mail Renewal Criteria

If you do not meet the criteria for mail renewal, you will need to apply in person at a passport acceptance facility. Many post offices do offer some acceptance services. It is wise to check the specific services offered by your local post office beforehand to ensure you have the right option.

Renewal of an Expired Passport

Unlike renewing a passport, you cannot renew an expired one by mail. If your passport has expired, you will need to start the process all over again. This involves applying online, uploading required documents, paying the fee, and scheduling an appointment at the nearest Passport Service Center (PSC).

Local Passport Service Center Application Process

For those applying at a Local Passport Service Center (LPS), the process is slightly different and includes:

Applying online to order your passport. Uploading the required documents, including a copy of the back page of your current passport, a completed DS-11 Application for a U.S. Passport, a completed DS-40 Application for Certificate of Citizenship, or a signing of an Application for a U.S. Passport for Someone Else. Upfront payment of the fee, which can be paid online or by credit/debit card if you’re using an Amazon Kindle, Apple, or Android device. Making an appointment at the nearest PSC and arriving at least 15 minutes before your appointment. Bringing all original documents and the current passport for verification. The officer will then order a police verification. The new passport will be issued within a week if everything checks out.

If you encounter any issues during the application process, you may take your completed form to a post office to have it checked. They may charge an extra fee for this service. However, the post office will not renew the passport on the spot; it will still need to be sent to the passport office for processing.

By following these steps and ensuring you meet the necessary criteria, you can successfully apply for a new passport at the post office, whether by mail or in person. This guide aims to provide you with the necessary information and support throughout the process.