When you need to make an application for pass port 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.

Take a good look at your current passport. You will need to have it to renew it by mail, as it needs to be sent in with the application. If you do not have your current passport then you will need to apply in person.

If you do have your passport and it has not been damaged, there are still reasons why you may be unable to mail in your application. You must have gotten your current passport within the last 15 years and when you were 16 or more years of age. The last requirement is that it was issue in the name you currently use or you must have the proper documentation of your legal name change to send.

When mailing in your application, you will also need to include your most recent passport, two passport photos, the current fee and any documentation to prove a name change such as a marriage certificate or court order. It is recommended that you mail your passport and application in a way that can be traced. It is also a good idea to package it securely so that it cannot be damaged while in transport.

Once renewed, your passport can be sent to an address in the United States or Canada only. Therefore, if you are in any other country, you must go to the nearest American Embassy or Consulate to get a new passport. A side note, if you happen to owe child support that you are behind on, you may not be able to get your passport.

The processing time for mailed applications is variable. Generally speaking, it is about four to six weeks. If you urgently need a passport, you might have to go to a passport agency near you. This is suggested if you have international travel booked within the next couple of weeks for if you need your passport within the next four weeks to acquire a foreign visa. These agencies see people on an appointment only basis.

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.

There are times when an emergency necessitates traveling to a foreign country in 24 to 48 hours. If this should happen, you can get emergency service by making an appointment at a passport agency. You may be required to show proof of the emergency.

People frequently wait until they make travel plans before checking their pass port renewal date. It is a much better idea to keep track of the expiration date. If the time for your United States passport renewal date is coming up, take care of it as soon as you can. This will help you avoid problems if you should suddenly decide to travel.