How to Renew Your U.S. Passport
Summary: This video explains how to renew a U.S. passport by mail using Form DS-82, detailing the eligibility requirements and necessary documents to avoid an in-person application.
This educational video from the U.S. Department of State provides a clear guide on renewing a U.S. passport. It highlights the specific conditions for mail renewal using Form DS-82: the passport must be undamaged, issued when the applicant was 16 or older, issued within the last 15 years, and in their current name. If a name change has occurred, applicants must submit proof of legal name change, such as an original or certified copy of a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. The video explicitly states that if these conditions are not met, an in-person application using Form DS-11 is required. For those eligible for mail renewal, the process involves sending their current passport, the completed Form DS-82, a recent photo, and a check or money order for the application fee. Renewing by mail helps avoid lengthy waits at acceptance facilities. The video concludes by directing viewers to travel.state.gov/renew for more detailed information.
Playback guide
1. 0:00 - 0:06: Introduction to U.S. passport renewal by the Department of State. 2. 0:06 - 0:11: John's need to renew his passport and what he needs to know. 3. 0:11 - 0:17: Explanation of renewing by mail using Form DS-82. 4. 0:17 - 0:25: Mail renewal eligibility criteria: undamaged passport, issued at 16+ years old, issued within the last 15 years. 5. 0:25 - 0:36: Requirements for name changes during mail renewal (marriage certificate, divorce decree, court order). 6. 0:36 - 0:42: Applying in person with Form DS-11 if not eligible for mail renewal. 7. 0:42 - 0:50: The convenience of mail renewal, avoiding long lines at acceptance facilities. 8. 0:50 - 0:55: Documents required for mail renewal: current passport, Form DS-82, recent photo, and application fee. 9. 0:55 - 1:10: Call to action for more information at travel.state.gov/renew.