The Steps In Applying For A Passport Replacement

by erin on July 27, 2011

There will come a time when passports need to be renewed or replaced. They can be renewed if they are about to expire or have already expired but not for more than five years. It is also suggested to get a passport replacement when they are worn out. Lost and stolen passports and those that have unauthorized alterations need to be replaced. Replacing passports is very similar to applying passports for the first time. Renewing them is a much easier process. Know about a passport replacement in this short article.

Unacceptable Passport

It is completely understandable to insist that unexpired passports, even though they appear worn out, are still valid documents. Holders of such passports should be advised that is better to replace them right away. It has already happened that some travellers have been denied entry because their documents have been judged as unacceptable just because it looks old and worn out. Having them replaced is a lot cheaper and far easier than having your trip cut short.

New Application

Replacing passports, as mentioned earlier, is very similar to a new application. Those who are undertaking this process need to gather the set of documents required for a first time passport application. The required documents are the applicant’s birth certificate, Form DS-11 and a recent passport sized photo.

Passport Application

Those who got their passports many years ago may not know about a ruling that was passed in April 2011. It said that a birth certificate should now contain the complete names of the applicant’s parents for it to be accepted in a first-time application of passports. If the names are not found, the application cannot proceed.

Form DS-64

For those who are replacing lost or stolen passports, they need to accomplish Form DS-64. They need to communicate in this form the circumstances regarding the loss of the document. Form DS-64 and Form DS-11 are both US government forms that can be obtained at the website of the State Department.

Acceptance Center

When all the documents have been accomplished, the applicant’s next step is to visit the nearest acceptance center. They will be asked to identify themselves. For this, they can show any government issued ID such as a driver’s license or a military ID. They will be interviewed and their papers looked at. When everything has been satisfied, they can pay for a regular or an expedited processing of a passport replacement. Expedited processing takes 21 days or less to finish while a regular application takes longer, usually from four to six months.

Web Service

After five days from application, one can already get an update of the status of the transaction. There is web service for inquires such as this. What is needed is the applicant’s last name, the last four places in his Social Security Number, and his date of birth.

Express Courier

Owners should make a resolution to take better care of their new passports once they are delivered by express courier service. Extra care is warranted because the document has now a microchip embedded in its cover. This chip contains his biometric data. Those who have done a passport replacement will be happy to note that this is a relatively easy process. This is the most basic procedure for how to get a passport fast.

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