What if I can't renew my passport?

by Manar
(Houston Tx US)

Question: My family is trying to send my dad overseas as a surprise for his birthday but his passport is more than 15 years old. Is there anyway to renew it or would we have to apply in person? Also, if we do have to apply in person, can we do it without him so we can keep it a surprise? thanks

Answer: Passports that are older than 15 years cannot be renewed by mail. Your father will have to appear in person to submit the application for a new passport. For complete instructions, click the link below.

New Passport Application Instructions

For a list of passport application acceptance facilities in Houston, click the link below.

Houston Passport Offices

Routine service takes 4-6 weeks to process an application. You can request the form be expedited and get the passport in 2-3 weeks. If you need to obtain a passport sooner, the application will have to be submitted at a regional agency or through a professional expediter. For more information, click the links below.

Houston Passport Agency

Passports as Fast as the Same Day

Click here to post comments.

Join in and write your own page! It's easy to do. How?
Simply click here to return to Passport Renewal Questions.

Latest Passport & Travel Updates

Passport Requirements
List and description of documents required for citizens of the United States to obtain passports.

Passport Book vs. Passport Card
Learn the similarities and differences between the traditional passport book and the newer passport card.

Rush Passport Expediting
Requirements, fees and processing times for getting rush passport expediting.

Multiple Entry Visa Information
What is a multiple entry visa and how do you apply for one. Get the general requirements for obtainings visas with multiple entries.

A Day in the Life of a Tourist in San Juan
You wake up at your resort and look at the stunning view of Condado Beach. Even though it's early, children are already playing in the sand. The waves ...

Playa del Carmen, Mexico - The Perfect Tropical Paradise for Your Vacation
Discover why Playa del Carmen is such a popular vacation spot for any season of the year. Find out what to do and see as well as where to stay in this lush tropical paradise of MexicoÂ´s Mayan Riviera.

Ein Bokek at the Dead Sea Israel
Ein Bokek - A fabulous oasis in the desert and a magnet for health seekers and tourists alike. Ein Bokek is located on the southwestern shore of the ...