Standard Time Frame
Standard mail renewal, according to the U.S. State Department website, takes from four to six weeks. Expedited service will take two to three weeks.
Short Time Frame
If need to travel in less than two weeks, or need to apply for a foreign visa in less than four weeks, you may make an appointment with a Regional Passport Agency by calling the automated system at (877) 487-2778.
Form DS-82
Form DS-82 is used to renew a U.S. passport. It can be found online at: http://travel.state.gov/passport/forms/ds82/ds82_843.html.
Eligibility
You are eligible to renew your passport so long as you meet all four of the following criteria: Your current passport is undamaged and can be submitted with you application; your current passport was issued when you were over 16 years old; your current passport is not older than 15 years; and your current passport was issued in your current legal name.
Expert Insight
The U.S. Department of State recommends mailing your application and documents using a traceable delivery method, such as USPS Priority Mail with signature confirmation.
Article Written By Thomas Ferraioli
Thomas Ferraioli began writing in 1993. His work has been featured in national publications like "Parents" and "U.S. Catholic." Ferraioli owns a cleaning service and is a Catholic youth minister. He holds a bachelor's degree in communications and business from Seton Hall University and was a recipient of the Pope John Paul II Award from the Archdiocese of Newark, N.J. for his work with youth.
