This refers to the document officially titled the “Application for a U.S. Passport Renewal.” Its the application form used by eligible U.S. citizens to renew their passports via mail. A common example involves someone whose previous passport was issued within the last 15 years and who has not had it reported lost or stolen; this individual would likely utilize this method to obtain a renewed passport.
The significance of this renewal process lies in its convenience and efficiency for eligible applicants. Instead of scheduling an in-person appointment, individuals can complete the form, gather the required documentation (such as a photograph and the previous passport), and mail it in with the appropriate payment. Historically, passport renewals often required in-person visits, creating potential delays and inconveniences. The introduction of mail-in renewal options streamlined the process, benefiting both applicants and passport processing agencies.