Passport Renewal - Not by Mail
by Andrea
(Waterloo, IA, USA)
Question: I am only able to locate an application for a renewal by mail; however, I would like to renew my passport at my local post office as well as take a new picture rather than providing one of my own. Is there a different application I should fill out for this (other than the Application For A U.S. Passport by Mail)?
Answer: Many Iowa passport offices offer passport photo service. Since many of these offices are located in post offices, you can have your photos taken and mail the application from the same location.
However, you still need to use Form DS-82: Application for a U.S. Passport by Mail to renew your passport. Passport renewal applications cannot be submitted to agents at these application acceptance facilities. Passport agents at these facilities only receive applications for new passports not renewals. Also, no passport application is actually processed at these facilities. Applications are processed at regional passport processing centers.
Routine processing takes 4-6 weeks. You can request expedited service when you mail the application. Just include an additional $60 for the service and write the word "expedite" on the envelope. Expedited applications are processed in 2-3 weeks.
If you need to renew your passport more quickly, then you can either visit the Minneapolis Passport Agency or the Chicago Passport Agency. If you are unable to travel to one of these agencies, you can still get your passport fast through a qualified passport expediting service.
More Passport & Travel Information
Getting a Passport Expedited at a Post OfficeRequesting express service at post offices and other facilities that accept application forms from U.S. citizens. Applying at a Regional Passport Agency
Where processing centers are located. How to schedule an appointment. What documents to take with you. Using a Registered Courier Service
How to pick a legitimate courier service company to assist in getting your passport quickly. Routine vs. Expedited Passport Service: How to Choose
Guide to help you decide if standard or fast track processing is the best option for your situation. How to Renew a U.S. Passport Fast
Learn to expedite passport renewals as quickly as the same day. Where and how to renew passport in a hurry.
Top 5 Questions About Expedited Passport Couriers
2. What exactly does a passport expediter do?
3. Are passport expediting services legitimate?
4. How can I identify a reliable passport expeditor?
5. Is expedited passport service worth it? Get answers to these questions and more in our Ultimate U.S. Traveler's Guide to Passport Expediters.
You can also visit our library of articles about passport expediting.