U.S. Passport Application by Mail (USPS) – Process & Photo Requirements

U.S. Passport Application by Mail

Applying for a U.S. passport by mail is the primary method for renewals if you are not eligible for online renewal. First-time applicants, those with expired passports issued over 15 years ago, and certain special cases must apply in person at an acceptance facility.

Who Can Apply by Mail?

You may apply for a passport by mail if:

✔ You are a U.S. citizen aged 16 or older.
✔ Your most recent passport was issued within the last 15 years.
✔ Your previous passport was undamaged and issued when you were 16 or older.
✔ Your name is unchanged, or you can provide legal proof of a name change.

Steps to Apply by Mail

1. Gather the Required Documents

Before submitting your application, ensure you have the following:

• Your most recent U.S. passport (must be in good condition).
• A passport-style photo that meets official requirements.
• Proof of name change (if applicable, such as a marriage certificate or court order).
• A completed DS-82 form (Passport Renewal Application for Eligible Individuals).
• Payment in the form of a check or money order made payable to “U.S. Department of State.”

2. Complete the Application (Form DS-82)

• Download and fill out Form DS-82 from the U.S. State Department website.
• Ensure all information is accurate to avoid delays.
• Do not sign the form until instructed to do so.

3. Attach a Passport Photo

• The photo must comply with all official passport photo requirements (see below).
• Affix the photo using staples as instructed in the DS-82 form guidelines.

4. Prepare Your Payment

• Standard renewal fee: $130 (check the latest fees on the U.S. State Department website).
• Expedited processing (optional): Additional $60.
• Pay with a personal check or money order; cash and credit cards are NOT accepted by mail.

5. Mail Your Application Package

• Place the completed DS-82 form, current passport, passport photo, proof of name change (if applicable), and payment into a secure envelope.
• Send the package via USPS Priority Mail or Express Mail with tracking to the appropriate address provided on the DS-82 form.
• Do not use standard first-class mail, as tracking is recommended.

6. Track Your Application Status

• Use the confirmation number from your payment or mailing receipt to check your application status online.
• Processing times vary, but expedited services can shorten the wait.

U.S. Passport Photo Requirements

A proper passport photo is crucial for successful application processing. Photos that do not meet the guidelines may result in delays or rejections.

General Photo Requirements

✅ Size: 2 x 2 inches (51 x 51 mm).
✅ Resolution: Minimum 600 x 600 pixels for digital photos.
✅ Color: Full color; black and white photos are not accepted.
✅ Background: Plain white or off-white with no shadows.
✅ Expression: Neutral face, eyes open, mouth closed.
✅ Head Position: Face the camera directly, head centered, and fully visible.
✅ Clothing: Casual clothing; no uniforms. Religious attire is allowed if worn daily.

Restrictions

🚫 No selfies or digitally altered images.
🚫 No glasses (unless medically necessary, with a doctor’s note).
🚫 No hats, head coverings, or accessories that obscure the face (unless for religious or medical reasons).
🚫 No filters, overexposure, or shadows.

Printing & Submission Guidelines

• Print the photo on high-quality matte or glossy photo paper.
• The head should be between 1 - 1 3/8 inches (25 - 35 mm) from the chin to the top of the head.
• Avoid using digital enhancement or filters.
• Digital photos must meet State Department specifications.

By carefully following these guidelines, applicants can ensure a smooth passport application process without unnecessary delays. For the most up-to-date requirements, visit the official U.S. Department of State website.