US Passport Renewal: DS-82 Form Completion Guide

US Passport Renewal: There are various official forms associated with US passport services, and one of the most frequently used is Form DS-82, the Application for Passport Renewal by Mail. This document provides a detailed, step-by-step guide for completing Form DS-82, along with essential information on eligibility, required documentation, photo requirements, and submission procedures.

Looking for a hassle-free way to complete your Passport Renewal? Whether you are planning international travel or need to update your documents, our expert guide on the USA Passport Application Online process makes it easy. Learn how to apply US Passport online or by mail with step-by-step instructions. How can I Renew My Passport quickly? We have you covered with the latest tips and requirements.

What is The Form DS-82?

Form DS-82, formally recognized as the US Passport Renewal Application for Qualified Individuals, is utilized to renew a USA passport application via postal service or through the digital renewal system. As of 2025, it remains one of the most frequently used forms for adult passport renewals. While digital renewal removes the requirement for a hard copy of DS-82, the criteria associated with the form still apply; the details are electronically collected throughout the online submission.

To qualify for passport renewal using Form DS-82 (either through mail or online), all of the following must apply:

• You currently own a US passport and can provide it (for mail-in renewals);

• Your passport is intact, except for standard wear and tear;

• It was issued when you were 16 years old or older;

• It was issued within the last 15 years;

• It bears your current legal name, or you can furnish official documentation of a name alteration (e.g., marriage certificate or court decree).

If these criteria are not satisfied, you must submit an application in person using Form DS-11.

What is the Difference between DS-11 and DS-82 Passport Forms?

The main contrast lies in the mode of application and qualification requirements. Form DS-11 must be submitted in person at a certified passport acceptance location, and it is required when:

• You are submitting a USA passport application for the first time;

• You are younger than 16 years;

• Your previous passport was issued over 15 years ago;

• Your prior passport was provided when you were under 16;

• Your former passport has been misplaced, stolen, or is extensively damaged;

• You are updating critical personal details (like name or gender) without supporting records.

Form DS-82, however, is designated for adult passport renewals and can be completed through the postal service or digitally, contingent upon eligibility. To use DS-82, your last passport must be in your custody, undamaged, issued when you were at least 16, and issued within the past 15 years.

Where Can You Get the DS-82 Passport Renewal Form?

Form DS-82 can be downloaded directly from the US Department of State’s Bureau of Consular Affairs. The document is available as a fillable PDF, enabling you to complete it digitally before printing for mail submission. Carefully follow the instructions and attach all necessary items when submitting your renewal.

For those renewing their passport online, there is no requirement to print or mail Form DS-82. Instead, all the data is gathered electronically through the US State Department’s digital renewal system. This method is accessible only to eligible users who fulfill specific prerequisites. Review the criteria before beginning the online application to apply USA passport.

Explore a complete guide to filling out the USA passport application for detailed steps, qualifications, and passport photo tips.

How to Fill Out the DS-82 Passport Renewal Form: Step-by-Step Instructions and Checklist

Form DS-82 provides in-depth guidance on its initial two pages to assist in correct completion. However, ensure your application is error-free before mailing to prevent delays or rejections. Use the following checklist for accuracy:

• Enter precise and legible information: Provide personal details exactly as they appear on your current passport or supporting documents. Double-check spelling, dates, and identification numbers.

• Use a black ink pen for handwritten forms: If completing manually, use black ink and capital letters only. Avoid using blue or colored pens to ensure clarity.

• Include only US specific data: Do not use foreign identification numbers, such as Canada’s SIN, in place of your US Social Security Number (SSN).

• If never issued a Social Security Number: Include a signed and dated declaration stating:

  
  

  I declare under penalty of perjury under the laws of the United States of America that the following is true and correct: I have never been issued a Social Security Number by the Social Security Administration.

• Attach a valid passport photo: Ensure the photo aligns with official US passport photo rules—2x2 inches, plain white background, neutral facial expression, and no digital retouching.

• Provide all required documents: Submit your current passport, completed DS-82 form, payment for renewal (check or money order made out to US Department of State), and legal name change records if applicable.

Can Form DS-82 Be Handwritten?

Yes, DS-82 can be completed by hand. If you choose this method, ensure to use black ink and uppercase block letters for maximum legibility. Avoid cursive writing or colored pens, as they can lead to processing delays or denials. However, to reduce mistakes, it is advised to utilize the official Form Filler tool provided by the US State Department. This tool ensures consistent formatting and helps avoid frequent errors.

Need a USA Passport? Whether you are planning your first trip abroad or need to update your passport, we make it easy to Apply USA Passport online. From Renew Passport services to Replace Lost Passport assistance, our platform offers a quick and secure way to Apply for Passport. Start your USA Passport Application Online today and travel with confidence.

How to Print the DS-82 Form?

The DS-82 must be printed on standard white US letter-size paper (8.5 x 11), not A4. Print each page on a separate sheet; double-sided printing is not allowed and may cause the application to be rejected.

The form may be printed in black and white or color, provided all text is legible and clear. Avoid resizing or adjusting the form during printing to preserve its original formatting. Always use the official DS-82 PDF issued by the State Department to ensure precision.

Documents Required to Submit with Form DS-82 for Passport Renewal

To renew my passport with DS-82, you must provide the following:

• Your most recent USA passport application booklet, which should be intact and meet renewal standards;

• A current, color passport photograph that meets US specifications (2x2 inches, white background, captured in the past six months).

Also, be sure to include the proper renewal fee (payable to the US Department of State) and legal name change proof if needed (such as a marriage certificate or official court record).

US Passport Photo Specifications

Your passport photograph must adhere to these official requirements:

• Taken within the past six months to reflect your current look;

• Plain white or off-white backdrop with no patterns or shadows;

• Dimensions must be 2x2 inches (51 x 51 mm) for print, or 600x600 to 1200x1200 pixels for digital use;

• Head must cover 50–70% of the image, measuring between 1 and 1 3/8 inches from chin to top of head.

Keep a neutral face, both eyes visible, and no eyeglasses unless medically required and accompanied by a physician’s note.

US Passport Photo Online Editor

To ensure your photograph meets government regulations, it is wise to use a trusted online tool that adheres to official size, background, face proportion, and visibility standards. This prevents rejection and speeds up processing.

Is It Possible to Submit Form DS-82 Online?

Yes, in 2025, qualified US citizens may renew passports digitally using data similar to what’s collected in DS-82. The digital renewal system, initiated as a pilot in 2022, is now fully operational.

To apply USA passport online:

• Register for a MyTravelGov account.

• Verify your account through the email confirmation.

• Log in and follow the steps to input personal data, upload a digital photo, and pay with a credit/debit card.

Remember, not everyone qualifies. Your passport must be less than 15 years old, issued when you were 16+, and in your current legal name (or have documentation to verify a name change). It must not be damaged, lost, or stolen.

Get your USA Passport Application processed quickly and securely. Whether you are applying for the first time or need to replace stolen passport, we make it simple. Learn all about US Passport Requirements and get systematic guidance for your Travel State Passport needs. Use our trusted platform for a fast and efficient Online Passport Application USA. Start your American Passport Application Online today and be travel-ready in no time.

US Passport Renewal Fees

In 2025, the following charges apply for US passport renewal:

• $130 for the passport booklet (valid for all travel modes);

• $30 for the passport card (valid for land/sea travel to Canada, Mexico, Caribbean, Bermuda);

• $160 for both if ordered simultaneously.

Additional charges may include:

• Expedited processing: Extra $60 for faster service (5–7 weeks);

• 1–2 Day Return Delivery: $19.53 for faster shipment;

• File search fee: $150 if you cannot provide your old passport.

Mailed applications must be paid by check or money order. Online applications require a card payment via the secure platform.

DS-82 Passport Renewal FAQs

How long does it take in 2025?

Routine processing takes 6–8 weeks; expedited takes 2–3 weeks, excluding mailing time. For quicker shipping, choose 1–2 day delivery for an added fee. Processing durations can vary during peak periods.

Can I use DS-82 if my passport is over 15 years old?

No, DS-82 is not valid if your last passport is older than 15 years. Use DS-11 instead.

Can I track the status of my DS-82 renewal?

Yes, you can monitor your renewal progress using the US Passport Status Tracker by providing your last name, date of birth, and final four digits of your SSN. Updates are available 7–10 days after receipt.

Can I use DS-82 if I have lost my passport?

No, you must use DS-11 along with Form DS-64 to replace lost passport or replace stolen passport. This ensures your old passport is deactivated and unusable.

Applying for a USA Passport Application is now easier than ever. With the Online Passport Application USA service, you can complete the process from the comfort of your home. The American Passport Application Online system ensures quick and secure submissions. Whether it is your first passport or a passport renewal, everything is just a few clicks away.