Article Structure
Renewing a U.S. passport can seem daunting, but understanding the DS-82 01-2017 form can simplify the process significantly. This form is specifically designed for individuals who are eligible to renew their passports by mail, provided they meet certain criteria. Key aspects of the DS-82 form include the requirement that applicants must have their most recent passport available, which should be undamaged and issued when they were age 16 or older. Additionally, the passport must have been issued within the last 15 years and issued in the applicant's current name or with proper documentation of a name change. The form also requires personal information, such as the applicant's full name, date of birth, and Social Security number. Payment of the renewal fee is another crucial component, typically made via check or money order. Moreover, applicants must include a recent passport photo that meets specific guidelines. Understanding these elements can help streamline the renewal process and ensure that applicants submit a complete and accurate application.
Form Sample
Instruction Page 1 of 4
DS-82 04-2025
Please print legibly using black ink only. If you make an error, complete a new form. Do not correct or white out.
For information or questions, visit travel.state.gov or contact the National Passport Information Center (NPIC) at
SECTION A. ELIGIBILITY TO USE THIS FORM
This form is used by U.S. passport holders to renew their current or recently expired U.S. passport book and/or card (a travel
document attesting to one’s identity and issued to U.S. citizens or non-citizen U.S. nationals). This form can be submitted by mail.
You are eligible to use this form if you can answer “Yes” to ALL statements below about your passport:
YES NO I can submit my most recent U.S. passport book and/or card with this application.
YES NO I was at least 16 years old when my most recent U.S. passport book and/or card was issued.
YES NO I was issued my most recent U.S passport book and/or card less than 15 years ago.
YES NO
The U.S. passport book and/or card that I am renewing has not been mutilated, damaged, or reported lost or
stolen.
YES NO
YES NO
My U.S. passport was not limited to less than the normal ten-year validity period due to passport
damage/mutilation, multiple passport thefts/losses, or non-compliance with 22 C.F.R. 51.41. (Refer to the
last page of your U.S. passport book for endorsement information.)
My name has not changed since my most recent U.S. passport book and/or card was issued.
-- OR --
My name has changed by marriage or court order, and I can submit proper certified documentation to
reflect my name change (such as a certified copy of a marriage certificate, or court order). Visit
travel.state.gov/namechange for a complete description of accepted documents.
If you answered "NO" to any of the statements above, STOP. You cannot use this form.
You may be eligible to apply on form DS-11 or DS-5504 depending on your circumstances.
Visit travel.state.gov for more information.
Notice to Applicants for No-Fee Regular, Service, Official, or Diplomatic Passports: You may use this application if you meet
all provisions listed; however, you must consult your sponsoring agency for instructions on proper routing procedures before
forwarding this application. Your completed passport will be released to your sponsoring agency and forwarded to you.
Replacing a Lost, Stolen, or Damaged Passport: A United States citizen or non-citizen national may not normally have more
than one valid or potentially valid U.S. passport book or more than one valid or potentially valid U.S. passport card at a time.
Therefore, when a valid or potentially valid U.S. passport book or card cannot be presented with a new application, you must apply
using form DS-11, Application for a U.S. Passport.
The information you provide regarding your lost or stolen valid U.S. passport book or card will be placed into our Consular Lost or
Stolen Passport System. This system is designed to prevent the misuse of your lost or stolen U.S. passport book or card. Anyone
using the passport book or card that was reported lost or stolen may be detained upon entry into the United States. If you find the
U.S. passport book or card that was reported lost or stolen, immediately report it as found and submit it for cancellation.
It has been invalidated. You cannot use that passport book or card for travel.
SECTION B. STEPS TO RENEW A U.S. PASSPORT
1. Complete and sign this form.
2. Attach one color photograph 2x2 inches in size, your previously issued U.S. passport, and supporting documents (See
Section D of these instructions).
3. Mail us your application and attachments (See Section E of these instructions).
4. Track application status online at Passportstatus.state.gov.
5. Receive new passport and original supporting documents (that you submitted with your application).
OMB Control No. 1405-0020
Expiration Date: 06/30/2028
Estimated Burden: 40 Minutes
U.S. Department of State
U.S. PASSPORT RENEWAL APPLICATION FOR ELIGIBLE INDIVIDUALS
DS-82 04-2025
SECTION C. HOW TO COMPLETE THIS FORM
Please see the instructions below for items on the form that are not self-explanatory. The numbers match the numbered items of the form.
1. Name (Last, First, Middle): Enter the name to appear in the passport. The name to appear in the passport should be
consistent with your previous U.S. passport. If you are requesting a passport in a name different from the name that appears on
your previous U.S. passport, submit proof of name change if resulting from marriage or legal name change such as a marriage
certificate, divorce decree, or court order of name change (if applicable). Information can be found at
travel.state.gov/namechange.
2. Date of Birth: Use the following format: Month, Date, and Year (MM/DD/YYYY).
3. Sex: You must select sex marker option “M” (male) or “F” (female) that corresponds with your biological sex at birth.
4. Place of Birth: Enter the name of the city and state if in the U.S. or city and country as presently known.
5. Social Security Number: You must provide a Social Security number (SSN), if you have been issued one, in accordance with
Section 6039E of the Internal Revenue Code (26 U.S.C. 6039E) and 22 U.S.C 2714a(f). If you do not have a Social Security
number, you must enter zeros in this field and submit a statement, signed and dated, that includes the phrase, “I declare under
penalty of perjury un
der the laws of the United States of America that the following is true and correct: I have never been
issued a Social Security Number by the Social Security Administration.” If you reside abroad, you must also provide the name of
the foreign country where you reside. The U.S. Department of State must provide your SSN and foreign residence information
to the U.S. Department of the Treasury which will
use it in connection with debt collection and check against lists of persons
ineligible or potentially ineligible to receive a U.S. passport, among other authorized uses. If you fail to provide the information,
we may deny your application and the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) may enforce a penalty. Refer all questions on this matter
to the nearest IRS office.
8. Mailing Address Line 1 and 2 "In Care Of": For line 1 enter applicant’s Street/RFD #, or P.O. Box or URB. For line 2, if you
do not live at the address listed in this field, put the name of the person who lives at this address and mark it "In Care Of".
9. List all other names you have used: Enter all legal names previously used to include maiden name, name changes, and
previous married names. You can enter up to two names: one in item A and one in item B. If only your last name has changed
just enter the last name. If you need more space to write additional names, please use a separate sheet of paper and attach it
to this form.
Application Page 1 - Signature Block (below Section 11): Remember to sign this page then complete Application Page 2.
SECTION D. ATTACHMENTS TO SUBMIT WITH THIS FORM
Once you have completed Application Pages 1 and 2, attach the supporting documents as outlined in this section.
1. YOUR MOST RECENTLY ISSUED U.S. PASSPORT BOOK AND/OR CARD
When submitting a U.S. passport book and/or card with this form, please verify that the document was issued at age 16 or older in
your current name and issued within the past 15 years. Please submit any valid passport product you have with this application. If
your U.S. passport book and/or card has been mutilated, damaged, or reported lost or stolen, you must apply on form DS-11.
2. A RE CENT COLOR PHOTOGRAPH See th e full list of photo requi rements on tr avel.state.gov/photos.
Atta ch one photo, 2x2 inches in siz e. U.S. passport photo requirements may d iffer from photo requirements of ot her count ries. To avoid
proce ssing delays, be su re your photo meets all the following requi rements (Ref er to th e phot o template on App lication Page 1):
• Taken less than six months ago
• Head must be 1-1 3/8 inches from the bottom of the
chin to the top of the head
• Head must face the camera directly with full face in view
• No eyeglasses and head covering and no
uniforms*
• Printed on matte or glossy photo quality paper
• Use a plain white or off-white background
*Head coverings are not acceptable unless you submit a signed statement verifying that it is part of recognized, traditional religious
attire that is customarily or required to be worn continuously in public or a signed doctor's statement verifying its daily use for
medical purposes. Glasses or other eyewear are not acceptable unless you submit a signed statement from a doctor explaining why
you cannot remove them (e.g., during the recovery period from eye surgery). Photos are to be taken in clothing normally worn on a
daily basis. You cannot wear a uniform, clothing that looks like a uniform, or camouflage attire.
USE CAUTION WHEN STAPLING YOUR PHOTO: Use 4 staples vertically in the corners as close to the outer edges as possible.
Do not bend the photo. Follow the photo template on Application Page 1.
U.S. Department of State
U.S. PASSPORT RENEWAL APPLICATION FOR ELIGIBLE INDIVIDUALS
6. Email: By providing your email address, you give us approval
to send you email messages about the status of your passport
and important travel information.
7. Primary Contact Phone Number: By providing your primary phone
number, you give us approval to send you (text and/or SMS) messages
about the status of your passport and important travel information.
Instruction Page 2 of 4
DS-82 04-2025
3. PROOF OF NAME CHANGE: If the name you are currently using is different from the name on your most recent U.S. passport,
you must submit a copy of your certified marriage certificate, divorce decree, or original court order showing the change of name.
Plea
se make sure all documents are clear and legible. All original documents will be returned to you by mail. If you are unable to
document your name change in this manner, you must apply on form DS-11, Application for a U.S. Passport.
4. FEES: Passport service fees are established by law and regulation (see 22 U.S.C. 214, 22 C.F.R. 22.1, and 22 C.F.R.
51.50-56). Do not send cash. The Department cannot be responsible for cash sent through the mail. By law, the passport fees are
non-refundable. There is no execution fee to use this form. Newly issued passport cards are delivered via first class mail only. Visit
travel.state.gov/passportfees for current fees, payment methods, and how fees are used and processed. Additional fee
information is as follows:
Applicant Applying in the United States: Please Visit travel.state.gov/passportfees for current fees, payment methods, and how fees are
used and processed.
Applicant Applying Outside the United States: Please see the website of your embassy, consulate, or consular agency for acceptable
payment methods.
Other Services Requiring Additional Fee (Visit travel.state.gov for more details):
• Expedited Service: Available for an additional fee. Expedited service is only available for passports mailed in the United States
and Canada. Please include the appropriate fee with your payment. Please write "Expedite" on the outer envelope when
mailing. Visit travel.state.gov for the current fees and processing times for expedited service.
• 1-2 Day Delivery: Available for an additional fee. This service is only available for passport book (and not passport card)
mailings in the United States. Please include the appropriate fee with your payment.
• NOTE: To ensure minimal processing time for expedited applications, the Department recommends using 1 – 2 day delivery
service to submit the application and to include the appropriate postage fee for 1-2 day return delivery for the newly issued
passport book. Please visit travel.state.gov for updated information regarding fees, processing times, or to check the status of
your passport application online.
SECTION E. HOW TO SUBMIT THIS FORM
The Department recommends using a trackable mailing service when submitting your application.
Submitting your form depends on your location and how soon you need your passport. Print page one and page two of your
application on separate pieces of paper. You do not need to submit instruction pages. Mail this form and attachments to one of
the addresses below:
FOR ROUTINE SERVICE (If you live
in CA, FL, IL, MN, NY, or TX):
National Passport Processing Center
PO Box 640155
Irving, TX 75064-0155
FOR ROUTINE SERVICE (If you live
in any other state or Canada):
National Passport Processing Center
PO Box 90155
Philadelphia, PA 19190-0155
FOR EXPEDITED SERVICE (Additional
Fee, from any state or Canada):
National Passport Processing Center
PO Box 90955
Philadelphia, PA 19190-0955
Notice to Applicants Located Outside the United States: U.S. citizens residing outs
ide the United States and Canada cannot
submit
this
form
to
the
domestic addresses listed above. Each U.S. embassy and consulate has different procedures for submitting
and processing your application. Visit
travel.state.gov to check the U.S. embassy or consulate webpage for more information.
SECTION F. RECEIVING YOUR PASSPORT AND SUPPORTING DOCUMENTS
• Difference Between U.S. Passport Book and Card: The book is valid for international travel by air, land, and sea. The card is
not valid for international air travel, only for entry at land border crossings and seaports of entry when traveling from Canada,
Mexico, Bermuda, and the Caribbean. The maximum number of letters provided for your given name (first and middle) on the
card is 24 characters. If both your given names are more than 24 characters, you must shorten one of your given names you list
on item #1 of Application Page 1.
• Separate mailings: You may receive your newly issued U.S. passport book and/or card and your citizenship evidence in two
separate mailings. If you are applying for both a book and card, you may receive three separate mailings: one with your returned
evidence, one with your newly issued book, and one with your newly issued card. All documentary evidence that is not
damaged, altered, or forged will be returned to you. Photocopies will not be returned.
• Passport numbers: Each newly issued passport book or card will have a different passport number than your previous one.
• Shipping and Delivery Changes: If your mailing address changes prior to receipt of your new passport, please contact NPIC.
NOTE: We wi
ll not mail a U.S. passport to a private a
ddress outside the United States or Canada.
• Passport Corrections, Non-Receipt/Undeliverable Passports, and Lost/Stolen Passport: For more information visit
travel.state.gov or contact NPIC.
U.S. Department of State
U.S. PASSPORT RENEWAL APPLICATION FOR ELIGIBLE INDIVIDUALS
Instruction Page 3 of 4
DS-82 04-2025
WARNING
False statements made knowingly and willfully in passport applications, including affidavits or other documents submitted to support this
application, are punishable by fine and/or imprisonment under U.S. law including the provisions of 18 U.S.C. 1001, 18 U.S.C. 1542, and/or
18 U.S.C. 1621. Alteration or mutilation of a passport issued pursuant to this application is punishable by fine and/or imprisonme
nt under
the provisions o
f 18 U.S.C. 1543. The use of a passport in violation of the restrictions contained herein or of passport regulations is
punishable by fine and/or imprisonment under 18 U.S.C. 1544. All statements and documents are subject to verification.
Failure to provide information requested on this form, including your Social Security number, may result in significant
processing delays and/or the denial of your application.
ACTS OR CONDITIONS
PRIVACY ACT STATEMENT
AUTHORITIES: Collection of this information is authorized by 22 U.S.C. 211 a et seq.; 8 U.S.C. 1104; 26 U.S.C. 6039E, 22 U.S.C.
2714a(f), Section 236 of the Admiral James W. Nance and Meg Donovan Foreign Relations Authorization Act, Fiscal Years 2000 and
2001; E
xecutive Order 11295 (August 5
, 1966); and 22 C.F.R. parts 50 and 51.
PURPOSE: We are requesting this information in order to determine your eligibility to be issued a U.S. passport. Your Social Security
number is used to verify your identity.
ROUTINE USES: This information may be disclosed to another domestic government agency, a private contractor, a foreign government
age
ncy, or to a private person or
private employer in accordance with certain approved routine uses. These routine uses include, but are
not limited to, law enforce
ment activities, employment verification, fraud prevention, border security, counterterrorism, litigation a
ctivities,
and activities that mee
t the Secretary of State's responsibility to protect U.S. citizens and non-citizen nationals abroad.
Your Social
Security number will be provid
ed to the U.S. Department of the Treasury and may be used in connection with debt collectio
n, among other
purposes
authorized and generally described in this section. More information on the routine uses for the system can be found in System
of Records Notices State-05, Overseas Citizen Services Records and Other Overseas Records and State-26, Passport Reco
rds.
DISCLOSURE: Providing information on this form is voluntary. Be advised, however, that failure to provide the information requested on
this form may cause delays in processing your U.S. passport application and/or could also result in the refusal or denial of your ap
plication.
Failure to provide
your Social Security number may result in the denial of your application (consistent with 22 U.S.C. 2714
a(f)) and may
subject you t
o penalty enforced by the Internal Revenue Service, as described in the Federal Tax Law on Instruction Page
2 (Section C) to
this form.
PAPERWORK REDUCTION ACT STATEMENT
Public reporting burden for this collection of information is estimated to average 40 minutes per response, including the time required for
searching existing data sources, gathering the necessary data, providing the information and/or documents required, and reviewing the
final collection. You do n
ot have to supply this information unless this collection displays a currently valid OMB control number. If
you have
comments on the
accuracy of this burden estimate and/or recommendations for reducing it, please send them to: Passport Forms
Officer,
U.S. Department of State, Bure
au of Consular Affairs, Passport Services, Office of Program Management and Operational Support
, 44132
Mercure Cir, PO Box 1199
, Sterling, Virginia 20166-1199.
For more information about your application status, online tools, current fees, and
processing times, please visit travel.state.gov.
U.S. Department of State
U.S. PASSPORT RENEWAL APPLICATION FOR ELIGIBLE INDIVIDUALS
The applicant agrees with the following statement:
I am not currently required to register under the sex offender registration program of any jurisdiction for a sex offense against a minor. I have not been convicted of a federal or state
drug offense or convicted of a statutory "sex tourism" crime, and I am not the subject of an outstanding federal, state, or local warrant of arrest for a felony; a criminal court order
forbidding my departure from the United States; or a subpoena received from the United States in a matter involving federal prosecution for, or grand jury investigation of, a felony.
If any of the above-mentioned acts or conditions have been performed by or apply to the applicant, a supplementary explanatory statement under oath (or affirmation) by the
applicant is required to be attached and made part of this application.
Instruction Page 4 of 4
DS-82 04-2025
Application Page 1 of 2
YOU MUST SIGN AND DATE THE APPLICATION IN THE DESIGNATED AREA BELOW. THEN COMPLETE PAGE 2
I declare under penalty of perjury all of the following: 1) I am a citizen or non-citizen national of the United States and have not performed any of the acts
listed under "Acts or Conditions" on page 4 of the instructions of this application (unless an explanatory statement is attached); 2) the statements made on
the application are true and correct; 3) I have not knowingly and willfully made false statements or included false statements in support of this application;
4) the photograph submitted with this application is a genuine, current photograph of me; and 5) I have read and understood the warning on page 4 of the
instructions to the application form.
Staple
Staple
Attach a color photograph of applicant
taken within the last six months
StapleStaple
Staple
StapleStaple
Please print legibly using black ink only. If you make an error, complete a new form. Do not correct or white out.
(
MM/DD/YYYY)
(MM/DD/YYYY)
(MM/DD/YYYY)
OMB Control No. 1405-0020
Expiration Date: 06/30/2028
Estimated Burden: 40 Minutes
(
MM/DD/YYYY)
3. Sex
DS-82 04-2025
Zip Code
Country
Country
Email
(MM/DD/YYYY
)
(MM/DD/YYYY)
Relationship To Applicant
Countries To Be Visited
Application Page 2 of 2
(
MM/DD/YYYY)
Departure Date
Return Date
Phone Number
Clear Form
Document Specifications
| Fact Name | Description |
|---|---|
| Eligibility | The DS-82 form is for U.S. citizens who are eligible to renew their passport by mail. |
| Form Version | This version of the DS-82 form is dated January 2017 and should be used for renewals. |
| Submission Method | Applicants must mail the completed DS-82 form along with the required documents to the address specified on the form. |
| Processing Time | Routine processing can take up to 10-12 weeks, while expedited service is available for an additional fee. |
Steps to Filling Out DS-82 01-2017 US Passport Renewal Application
Filling out the DS-82 form is an important step in renewing your U.S. passport. Once completed, you will send it along with your payment and other required documents to the appropriate address. Make sure you have everything ready before you submit your application to avoid delays.
- Start by downloading the DS-82 form from the official U.S. State Department website or obtain a physical copy.
- At the top of the form, fill in your full name as it appears on your current passport.
- Provide your date of birth in the format of month, day, and year.
- Enter your social security number in the designated space.
- Fill in your current mailing address, including street, city, state, and ZIP code.
- Indicate your email address and phone number for contact purposes.
- Complete the section regarding your passport information, including the passport number and the date it was issued.
- Check the box that applies to your situation regarding the reason for renewal.
- Sign and date the application at the bottom of the form.
- Prepare your payment for the renewal fee. Include a check or money order made out to "U.S. Department of State."
- Gather any additional documents required, such as a recent passport photo and your most recent passport.
- Place the completed form, payment, and additional documents in an envelope.
- Mail the envelope to the address specified for passport renewals on the form.
More About DS-82 01-2017 US Passport Renewal Application
What is the DS-82 01-2017 form used for?
The DS-82 01-2017 form is used for renewing a U.S. passport by mail. It is designed for individuals who meet specific criteria, such as having their most recent passport issued when they were age 16 or older, it being issued within the last 15 years, and it being issued in their current name or having documentation for a name change.
Who is eligible to use the DS-82 form for passport renewal?
To use the DS-82 form, applicants must meet certain requirements. They should be applying for a passport that is undamaged and can be submitted with the application. Additionally, applicants must be able to provide a recent passport photo and have their passport issued in their name. If the passport is lost, stolen, or damaged, a different form must be used.
How do I fill out the DS-82 form?
Filling out the DS-82 form involves providing personal information, including your name, address, and date of birth. You will also need to include your passport number and the date it was issued. Follow the instructions carefully to ensure all sections are completed accurately. Make sure to sign and date the application before submitting it.
What documents do I need to submit with the DS-82 form?
When submitting the DS-82 form, you will need to include your most recent passport, a recent passport photo that meets specific requirements, and payment for the renewal fee. If your name has changed, include a certified copy of the legal document that supports the change, such as a marriage certificate or court order.
How much does it cost to renew a passport using the DS-82 form?
The cost to renew a passport using the DS-82 form varies based on the type of service you choose. As of the latest guidelines, the standard renewal fee is typically around $110. If you require expedited service, there is an additional fee. Check the official website for the most current fees and options available.
How long does it take to process the DS-82 application?
Processing times for the DS-82 application can vary. Generally, routine processing can take up to 10-12 weeks, while expedited processing may take around 5-7 weeks. However, these times can change based on demand and other factors. It is advisable to check the official website for the most current processing times and to apply well in advance of any planned travel.
Common mistakes
-
Incorrect Payment Method: Many applicants fail to include the correct payment. They either send a personal check when a money order is required or forget to include payment altogether.
-
Missing Signature: Some people overlook the importance of signing the application. A missing signature can lead to delays or rejection of the application.
-
Wrong Photo Specifications: The passport photo must meet specific requirements. Submitting a photo that does not adhere to these guidelines can result in a request for a new photo.
-
Incorrect Mailing Address: Applicants sometimes provide an outdated or incorrect mailing address. This mistake can lead to passports being sent to the wrong location.
-
Failure to Use the Correct Form: Using an outdated version of the form can cause issues. Always ensure you are using the latest version of the DS-82 form.
-
Inaccurate Personal Information: Errors in personal details, such as name or date of birth, can lead to complications. Double-checking this information is crucial.
-
Not Including Previous Passport: Some applicants forget to include their most recent passport with the application. This is necessary for the renewal process.
-
Ignoring Processing Times: Many people underestimate the time it takes to process a passport renewal. Planning ahead can prevent last-minute issues.
Documents used along the form
When preparing to renew your passport using the DS-82 form, it's essential to gather all necessary documents to ensure a smooth application process. Below is a list of forms and documents that are often required or recommended alongside the DS-82.
- Previous Passport: You must submit your most recent passport, which will be returned to you along with your new passport.
- Passport Photo: A recent passport-sized photo that meets specific requirements is necessary. Ensure it is in color, taken within the last six months, and adheres to the guidelines.
- Payment: Include a check or money order for the renewal fee, made payable to "U.S. Department of State." Verify the current fee before submitting.
- Proof of Name Change: If your name has changed since your last passport was issued, provide legal documentation, such as a marriage certificate or court order.
- Mailing Envelope: Use a secure envelope for mailing your application. It is advisable to use a trackable delivery method to ensure it arrives safely.
Gathering these documents will help streamline your passport renewal process. Ensure everything is complete and accurate before submission to avoid delays.
Similar forms
The DS-82 01-2017 US Passport Renewal Application form shares similarities with the Form DS-11, which is used for first-time passport applicants. Both forms require personal information such as the applicant's name, date of birth, and social security number. However, while DS-82 is specifically for renewals, DS-11 is designed for those who have never had a passport before. This distinction means that DS-11 also requires additional documentation, such as proof of citizenship and identity, which is not necessary for the renewal process.
Another document comparable to the DS-82 is the Form DS-5504, which is utilized for correcting a passport. Like the DS-82, this form is intended for individuals who already hold a passport. Both forms require the applicant to provide their existing passport number and personal details. However, DS-5504 focuses on changes such as name corrections or updates to personal information, while DS-82 is specifically for the renewal of an expired passport.
The Form DS-86, which is the Passport Application for Minors, is also similar to the DS-82 in that it collects personal information. Both forms ask for the applicant's details, but DS-86 is tailored for individuals under the age of 16. The requirements differ significantly; DS-86 mandates the presence of a parent or guardian during the application process, while DS-82 does not involve any parental consent as it is for adults renewing their passports.
Form I-90, the Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card, exhibits similarities to the DS-82 in that both are applications for document renewal. Each form requires applicants to provide personal information and details about the existing document. However, I-90 is specific to permanent residents seeking to renew their green cards, while DS-82 is focused solely on passport renewals, highlighting the different contexts in which these documents are used.
Lastly, the Form N-400, the Application for Naturalization, shares a commonality with the DS-82 in that both require comprehensive personal information. Each form is a critical step in a larger process—DS-82 for maintaining travel documentation and N-400 for obtaining U.S. citizenship. While both forms necessitate background information, the N-400 involves more extensive questions regarding the applicant's history and eligibility for citizenship, reflecting the complexities of naturalization compared to passport renewal.
Dos and Don'ts
When completing the DS-82 01-2017 US Passport Renewal Application form, there are important guidelines to follow. Here is a list of things you should and shouldn't do:
- Do use black ink when filling out the form to ensure clarity.
- Do double-check your information for accuracy before submitting.
- Do sign and date the application where indicated.
- Do include a recent passport photo that meets the official requirements.
- Don't use correction fluid or tape on the application.
- Don't submit the form without the required payment for renewal.
- Don't forget to include your most recent passport with the application.
- Don't leave any required fields blank; fill in all necessary information.
Misconceptions
The DS-82 01-2017 US Passport Renewal Application form is often misunderstood. Here are six common misconceptions:
-
Only first-time applicants can use the DS-82 form.
This is not true. The DS-82 form is specifically designed for individuals who are eligible to renew their passports by mail, not just for first-time applicants.
-
You must apply in person to renew your passport.
Many believe that in-person application is necessary. However, if you meet certain criteria, you can complete the renewal process by mail using the DS-82 form.
-
All passport renewals take the same amount of time.
Processing times can vary. Factors such as application volume, the method of submission, and any additional documentation required can affect how long it takes to receive your renewed passport.
-
You can use any photo for your passport renewal.
This misconception can lead to delays. Passport photos must meet specific requirements, including size, background color, and quality. Using an incorrect photo can result in your application being rejected.
-
The DS-82 form can be filled out online.
While the form can be downloaded, it cannot be submitted electronically. You must print the completed form and send it by mail to the address specified in the instructions.
-
You do not need to include payment with your application.
This is incorrect. A payment for the renewal fee must accompany the DS-82 form. Failure to include payment will delay the processing of your application.
Key takeaways
When it comes to renewing your U.S. passport using the DS-82 form, there are several important points to keep in mind. Here are key takeaways to help you navigate the process smoothly:
- Eligibility: You must be eligible to use the DS-82 form. This applies if your current passport is undamaged, issued when you were age 16 or older, issued within the last 15 years, issued in your current name or you can legally document your name change.
- Complete the Form Accurately: Take your time to fill out the form correctly. Any mistakes can lead to delays in processing your application.
- Photograph Requirements: Include a recent passport photo that meets the official requirements. It should be 2x2 inches in size, in color, and taken within the last six months.
- Payment: Be prepared to pay the renewal fee. You can do this by check or money order made out to "U.S. Department of State." Ensure the amount is correct to avoid processing issues.
- Mailing Your Application: Send your completed DS-82 form, payment, and photo in a secure envelope. Use a trackable mailing method to ensure it reaches the passport processing center.
- Processing Times: Understand that processing times can vary. Routine service may take up to 10-12 weeks, while expedited service can take about 5-7 weeks. Plan accordingly.
- Tracking Your Application: After mailing your application, you can track its status online. This can provide peace of mind as you await your new passport.