A passport is a document, issued by the federal government, which certifies the identity and nationality of the passport holder. All U.S. citizens travelling outside the country need either a passport card or book. Citizens are allowed both a passport book and a passport card.

  • A Passport Card can be used to travel to and from Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean and Bermuda at land border crossings or sea ports-of-entry. It cannot be used for international travel by air.
  • A Passport Book can be used to travel to and from foreign countries via any type of travel.

Application to Renew A U.S. Passport by Mail

How to renew by mail

Applications for renewal should be submitted to the National Processing Center by mail.  Is your most recent U.S. Passport

  • Undamaged and can be submitted with your application
  • 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

If you answered "No" to any one of the items above, you must apply for a new passport.

If you answered "Yes" to all of the items, follow the steps below to submit your renewal by mail.

  • Complete the Application to Renew A U.S. Passport by Mail (Social Security number required)
  • Determine the appropriate fee to include on the Travel.State.Gov site
  • Mail the appropriate fee and the following with your application to the address on the application
    • Your most recent U.S. passport book and/or card
    • A certified copy of your marriage certificate or court order (if your name has changed)
    • A recent, color photograph

Additional information