Process of passport renewal

A person whose passport has expired or is about to expire should follow the given guidelines in the process of passport renewal: Planning for an appointment . The first step is to look for a post office which offers passport services since not all of them in the country offer such services. . Take a new passport photo before going to the post office because not all offer the service. This can be done at photocopy stores. . After the above a person should call the USPS location to book an appointment. Checking and filling in of paperwork . In completing the necessary paperwork a person should choose the DS-82 form for his or her passport renewal services. . The above form can be obtained at the post office or it can also be applied online at the Department of State website of the U.S. . After getting the necessary documentation a person is then obligated to fill in the necessary information in all the fields shown on the forms. Document submission at the post office . If the passport photos had not been taken before one can get them taken at the post office if the service is provided otherwise have them taken before submitting the application. . Come with a copy of DS-82 form ,old passport and any other necessary documents needed. The following information is crucial in documentation: - If a person is uner the age of 16 or has misplaced his or her old passport filling of DS-11 form is required. They should also proof citizenship. - If the person is under the age of 16 he or she should bring identity documents of the parents and if deceased a death certifiacte should be brought. - Any situation of name change a marriage certificate should be brought as proof. - If the passport is in good condition and the person is of the required age no other documents are needed. . Carry the documents with you at your time of appointment and be punctual. . Make the necessary fee payment for the passport renewal. . After the above process one should then wait for his or her passport to arrive. Expedited passports take 2-3 weeks to arrive whereas those by mail take 4-6 weeks. It is also possible to track the progress of ones application online. Passport renewal is of great importance and the above process should be followed in the renewal. Failure to renew a passport means that one is living in the country without the necessary documentation and this has dire consequences.