One of America’s oldest cities, Boston has been one of the country’s gateways to the rest of the world since before the US even existed. Today at Logan International Airport, you can catch a plane that will take you directly to Canada. Mexico, the Caribbean, Europe, and Africa. Later this year, Japan Airlines will add service to Asia, as well.

Renewing Your Passport in Boston

Of course, to take advantage of these convenient international travel opportunities, you’ll need a valid passport. If yours has been gathering dust in a drawer for too long, here’s what you need to know to renew it.

The first step is figuring out whether or not you are eligible to apply for your passport renewal by mail. Take this quick quiz to see whether or not this will be an option for you:

  • Is your current passport still undamaged and in your possession?
  • Was your current passport issued to you after your 16th birthday?
  • Was your current passport issued to you less than 15 years ago?
  • Are you still using the name that your last passport was issued under, OR do you have legal documents to support a name change request?

If you answered yes to all of the following questions, you can apply for your passport renewal by mail. Here’s how:

  • Fill out passport renewal form DS-82, and send it in to the address listed on the form. Also include the following items:
  • Your current passport.
  • One new passport photo
  • If you need to change your name on your next passport, include legal documents like a marriage certificate or court order to support your request.
  • A check or money order to cover the required passport fees.

If you answered “no,” do not pass go and do not fill out Form DS-82. Instead, go to one of the 7 Boston-area passport acceptance facilities, located in post offices across the city. Follow the directions in How to Apply for a New Passport.

If you apply for your passport renewal with standard processing, you should allow at least six weeks for it to arrive at your doorstep. If you paid the extra $60 for expedited processing, it’ll still be at least three weeks.

If you’ve already booked your trip and you need your passport within the next 14 days, you can make an appointment at the Boston Passport Agency on Causeway Street. If you’d rather not go through the hassle of making an appointment and waiting in line, or you simply can’t be there between 8:30am and 4:30pm, RushMyPassport can help. We personally deliver your paperwork to the Department of State, for processing in as little as 24 hours.

Let us help you get your passport renewal quickly and easily!