A Comprehensive Guide to Passport Services: New, Renewal, Lost or Stolen, Minor, and Name Change

A passport is an essential travel document for U.S. citizens, whether you're going on vacation, conducting business abroad, or visiting family in another country. Understanding the different passport services available can help you navigate the process smoothly. Whether you’re applying for a new passport, renewing an existing one, replacing a lost or stolen passport, applying for a minor’s passport, or requesting a name change, knowing your options and processing times is crucial.

In this guide, we’ll break down each passport service, including official government procedures, expedited options, and how USPassport.com can help make the process faster and easier.

1. Applying for a New Passport

If you are a first-time applicant, you’ll need to apply for a new passport. This service is also required if your previous passport was issued more than 15 years ago or if you were a minor when it was issued.

Official Requirements:

  • Complete Form DS-11 – The U.S. Passport Application form. You can do this via our secure, online application form, or we can complete it for you.
  • Proof of U.S. Citizenship – Acceptable documents include a certified birth certificate, naturalization certificate, or a previously issued passport.
  • Valid Photo Identification – A driver’s license, state ID, or military ID.
  • Passport Photo – A recent 2x2 inch color photo that meets government guidelines.
  • Application Fee:
    • Standard (Routine) Service: $130 (Passport Book) + $35 acceptance fee.
    • Expedited Service: Additional $60 for faster processing. Other expedited services may have higher service fees.
  • Processing Time:
    • Routine Service: 6-8 weeks.
    • Expedited Service (via government channels): 2-3 weeks.
    • Expedited Service via USPassport.com: 24 hours to 7 days.

How USPassport.com Can Help:‍

✅ Assist with document preparation.

✅ Expedite your passport in as little as 24 hours.

✅ Ensure accuracy to prevent delays.‍

2. Renewing an Existing Passport‍

Passport renewal is necessary if your current passport is expired or expiring soon. You are eligible to renew by mail if your passport:

  • Was issued within the last 15 years.
  • Was issued when you were 16 or older.
  • Is undamaged and in your possession.

Official Requirements:

  • Complete Form DS-82 – The Passport Renewal Application. You can do this via our secure, online application form, or we can complete it for you.
  • Your Most Recent Passport – Must be submitted along with the application.
  • New Passport Photo – A 2x2 inch photo taken within the last six months. We can take this for you if you live locally.
  • Application Fee:
    • Standard Service: $130.
    • Expedited Service: Additional $60.
  • Processing Time:
    • Routine Service: 6-8 weeks.
    • Expedited Service: 2-3 weeks.
    • Expedited Service via USPassport.com: 24 hours to 7 days.

How USPassport.com Can Help:‍

✅ Securely handle your renewal application.

✅ Offer rapid processing for urgent travel needs.

✅ Track your renewal status for peace of mind.‍

3. Replacing a Lost or Stolen Passport

‍If your passport has been lost, stolen, or significantly damaged, you must apply for a replacement as soon as possible to prevent identity theft or unauthorized use.‍

Official Requirements:

  • Complete Forms DS-11 and DS-64 – The DS-64 form officially reports the lost or stolen passport. We can also complete this on your behalf.
  • Proof of Citizenship and Identity – Birth certificate or other official documentation.
  • Passport Photo – A 2x2 inch color photo.
  • Application Fee:
    • Standard Replacement: $130 + $35 acceptance fee.
    • Expedited Replacement: Additional $60.
  • Processing Time:
    • Routine Service: 6-8 weeks.
    • Expedited Service: 2-3 weeks.
    • Expedited Service via USPassport.com: 24 hours to 7 days.

How USPassport.com Can Help:

‍✅ Handle lost or stolen passport cases urgently.

✅ Guide you through completing Forms DS-11 and DS-64 correctly.

✅ Provide express replacement options.‍

4. Passport for Minors (Under Age 16)‍

Children under the age of 16 must apply for a minor’s passport, which has different rules than an adult passport.‍

Official Requirements:

  • Complete Form DS-11.
  • Proof of Citizenship – A certified birth certificate or naturalization certificate.
  • Parental Identification – Parents/guardians must present valid IDs.
  • Consent of Both Parents – Both parents must be present, or a notarized consent form (DS-3053) is required.
  • Passport Photo – 2x2 inches, meeting official standards.
  • Application Fee:
    • Standard Passport: $100 + $35 acceptance fee.
    • Expedited Service: Additional $60.
  • Processing Time:
    • Routine Service: 6-8 weeks.
    • Expedited Service: 2-3 weeks.
    • Expedited Service via USPassport.com: 24 hours to 7 days.

How USPassport.com Can Help:‍

✅ Ensure correct documentation and consent forms.

✅ Offer fast processing to meet family travel needs.

✅ Assist with passport renewals for minors (valid for 5 years only).‍

5. Passport Name Change‍

If you’ve recently changed your name due to marriage, divorce, or legal reasons, you must update your passport to reflect the new name.

‍Official Requirements:

  • For Passports Less Than One Year Old:
    • Complete Form DS-5504 (no fee required).
    • Provide an original or certified copy of the name change document (marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order).
    • Submit your current passport.
  • For Passports Older Than One Year:
    • Complete Form DS-82 (renewal form).
    • Pay the standard renewal fee ($130 + $60 for expedited service).
    • Provide proof of name change.
  • Processing Time:
    • Routine Service: 6-8 weeks.
    • Expedited Service: 2-3 weeks.
    • Expedited Service via USPassport.com: 24 hours to 7 days.

How USPassport.com Can Help:‍

✅ Expedite the name change process for urgent travel.

✅ Review all documents to ensure accuracy.

✅ Provide guidance on the appropriate forms.

‍Why Choose USPassport.com?‍

Navigating the passport application process can be complex and time-consuming. We simplify and accelerate the process, offering:

  • Expedited processing in as little as 24 hours.
  • Expert document review to avoid delays.
  • Secure, tracked shipping for peace of mind.
  • Reliable service for urgent passport needs.

Get Your Passport Fast with USPassport.com. Whether you need a new passport, renewal, replacement, minor’s passport, or name change, USPassport.com is here to help. Don’t let slow processing times or application errors delay your travel plans.‍

Start your passport application today with USPassport.com and travel with confidence!