Getting your passport renewed is a much simpler process than applying for a brand new passport is. It requires far less forms to be filled out and takes much less time. There are some requirements that must be met to get US passport renewal, however. You can complete the process through the mail or by going online.

How Long It Takes

Getting a passport renewed by mail, normally, takes about six business weeks to fully process. Perhaps you are in a situation where you need it renewed before that. If that is the case your best bet is to go online. There you will be able to locate expedition services that are offered by various companies. They can ensure you receive your passport in time for your trip. Obviously, this is a very expensive option for passport renewal

Renewing Online

If you want to renew your passport online with an expedition service you have to meet certain criteria. Your passport has to show no sign of damage or tearing. You must show that your passport is not more than 15 years old. Finally, you had to have been 16 years old or older when you got your original passport. If, for whatever reason, you do not meet all the above criteria you are going to have to get your passport renewed through the mail.

What To Mail

There are a few steps you need to take if you are going to apply for passport renewal by mail. You have to put together a package that includes all the proper forms (which are found online), a recent color photo, your expired passport, and, of course, your passport renewal fee. Once you have all these things together you mail it to the Department of State and then wait for your renewed passport to come in the mail.

Expedited Renewal

If you plan on getting your US passport renewed with an expedited service you have a few options. First, you can go through the State Department. This takes about 2-3 weeks and requires $60 in additional passport fees. If you need your passport renewed even quicker than that you can visit expediters online. They can help you with the renewal process and get you your passport, in some cases, within 24 hours. This is a very convenient service that many people take advantage of. However, it is usually very expensive.