Generally, you should always apply for US Passport renewal before the 6 month deadline of your current US passport. However, you will find the instructions valid for renewing any passports for you or your family.

Step 1: US Passport Renewal Application

            As with any type of passport, you will need to fill out a form. Generally, Form DS-82 will be the application form needed for renewing your United States passports.

Step 2: Two Passport Photos

Many people think that any old photo will do, but you have very precise regulations concerning the passport photos. It is easiest to simply obtain your passport photos from a qualified photographer. A vending machine is not the appropriate avenue by which you should be obtaining your passports.

Your passport photographs must be:

2x2 inches in size
Identical
Full color
Less than 6 months old
Full face frontal view with a plain white background
Do NOT wear headgear
If you have medical devices such as eye glasses, hearing aid, or a hairpiece, you
should wear
No sunglasses or tinted eyeglasses (Be prepared to show a medical certificate)

Step 3: Most Recent Passport

            You must submit your most recent or old passport. Your old passport:

Was issued within the last 15 years
Was issued after you were 16 years old
Was issued using your current name

If any of the above are NOT true or accurate, you must apply for a new US passport.

Step 4: Travel Itinerary

Copy of plane ticket to a foreign destination OR
Copy of travel itinerary showing applicant’s full name, flight information OR if neither is available and you happen to be traveling for business a letter from your employer

For expedited passport services, travel date must be within 14 days when a visa is required otherwise dates must be within 5 days

Step 5: Government Fees

As government fees do change according to situations and circumstances it is vital you contact VIP Passports and Services to find what government fees are appropriate for your situation and circumstances.

Expedited services are available when necessary. However, proof is required for all expedited passports. A death or serious illness in the family or a business trip would qualify for expedited  passports, but proof is required to validate all requests. In addition, not all requests are accepted. The more proof you have and the more dire the situation the more likelihood your request for expedited passports will be accepted and approved.

In addition, as you apply for your US passports, you will discover it is a must to answer every field and question. Do NOT leave any field blank. Not only could your application be delayed, it could be denied.

As you apply for your US Passport or look at getting a US passport renewal, you will find many options available to you. Look for your options or allow VIP Passports to do the work for you. Saving time and money means knowing your rights and understanding the requirements. If you apply early, you are more likely to find the process goes without delay.