How to use "U.S. Passport Renewal Application for Eligible Individuals (DS-82)"?

Guide Resources

Forms
U.S. PASSPORT RENEWAL APPLICATION FOR ELIGIBLE INDIVIDUALS

This article is provided for educational purposes only. Information presented here does not constitute legal, financial, or other advice. Consult with appropriate professionals before preparing and filing any documents.

The U.S. Passport Renewal Application for Eligible Individuals (DS-82) is a specific form designed for U.S. citizens who wish to renew their passports without appearing in person at a passport acceptance facility. It streamlines the renewal process for eligible individuals, offering a convenient way to maintain valid travel documentation.

What Is This Form For?
The DS-82 form is used to renew a U.S. passport by mail. It's intended for individuals whose current passport is undamaged and was issued when the holder was age 16 or older, within the last 15 years, and in the applicant's current name (or they can legally document their name change).

Why Is It Needed?
Renewing a passport is necessary to ensure that it remains valid for international travel. Passports have an expiration date, and many countries require a passport to be valid for six months beyond the date of entry. The DS-82 form simplifies the renewal process, making it easier for eligible individuals to maintain valid travel documents.

Who Should Use It?
The intended audience for the DS-82 form includes U.S. citizens who meet the following criteria:
  • Their most recent passport is available to submit and is not damaged.
  • They received their passport when they were 16 years of age or older.
  • Their most recent passport was issued within the last 15 years.
  • Their most recent passport is in their current name (or they can provide a legal document certifying their name change).

How Should The Form Be Filled Out?
The form should be filled out carefully, following the instructions provided within the form itself. Applicants need to provide personal information, including their full name, date of birth, social security number, mailing address, email address, travel plans, and the most recent passport book and/or passport card information. It's important to answer all questions truthfully and to the best of the applicant's knowledge.

What Are The Key Pieces Of Information That The Form Requires?
Key information required on the DS-82 form includes:
  • Personal details (name, date of birth, place of birth, etc.)
  • Social Security number
  • Email and mailing addresses
  • Recent passport book or passport card number
  • Additional contact information
  • Payment information for the applicable fees

When Should It Be Submitted?
There are no specific deadlines for submitting the DS-82 form; however, applicants should consider their travel plans and submit the form well in advance of any planned international travel. It is recommended to renew a passport approximately nine months before it expires.

Where And How Should The Form Be Submitted?
The completed DS-82 form should be mailed to the address specified on the form along with the applicant's most recent passport, one passport photo, and the renewal fee. Specific mailing instructions, including the correct address, are provided on the form itself. It is not possible to submit the DS-82 form online, by phone, or in person at a passport acceptance facility.

How Much Does It Cost To Submit Or File The Form?
The cost to renew a passport using the DS-82 form includes the passport renewal fee and any additional services, such as expedited processing or overnight delivery of the new passport. As of my last update in April 2023, the standard adult passport book renewal fee was $130. However, fees can change, so it's important to check the most current fee structure on the U.S. Department of State's website or the form itself for the latest information.

Have Questions About This Guide?
Ask An Expert For Help:

Questions and comments are moderated. Minimum of 10 characters.

All questions and comments are moderated and publicly viewable. Please do not post private or sensitive information such as names, addresses, phone numbers, emails, confidential financial and legal details.

Login or sign up to submit questions