When you need to make an application for United States passport renewal, there are some different options. It may be possible to renew yours by mail. In some situations, however, you will need to make your application in person.

Pull out your existing passport first and take a look at it. It will need to be sent with your application package in order to renew by mail. If you do not actually have it, then you must apply for a new passport in person.

If your current passport is available as well as undamaged, you still my not be able to renew by mail. It must have been issued when you were 16 years old or more, and within the last 15 years. It also must have been issued in your current name or you must be able to send documentation with the application showing your legal name change.

When sending in your application, you will have to include your current passport, the applicable fee, two passport-size photos and the documentation showing your name change, if any, such as a court order or marriage certificate. It is best to send the application in a manner that can be traced. You should also package it securely so that no damages will occur during transport.

Once your passport is renewed, it can be sent only to addresses with the United States or Canada. If you currently live outside of either of these countries, you will have to go to the American Embassy or Consulate that is closest to you. Also note that, if you are behind on child support payments, you may be unable to get a passport.

The time to process your mailed application can vary. It is usually around four to six weeks. If you have an urgent need for a passport, you may need to visit a local passport agency. This is recommended if you are traveling internationally within two weeks or if you need the passport within four weeks for a foreign visa. People are seen at these agencies only by appointment.

If you have sent in your passport application already, the status of your application can be checked online. It may take a week after applying for the status to be available. If your passport has not arrived within one week of when you are due to travel, contact the National Passport Information Center.

Sometimes, an emergency comes up that requires you to travel with one to two days. If this occurs, you can make an appointment at a passport agency to get service immediately. You may have to provide proof of the emergency requiring your travel.

Many times, people wait until they actually have travel plans before checking if their USA passport is current. It is much smarter to pay attention to when your passport expires. If your U.S. passport renewal date is approaching, get it taken care of as soon as possible. This way, you will avoid any problems if travel plans do crop up suddenly.

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