Can i renew my passport even if can't find it?

by john fraser
(daytona beach, florida, usa)

Question: A few years ago, my house was foreclosed upon and many of my belongings were hastily packed. Shortly after the foreclosure, I got divorced. My ex has the boxes in a storage unit that I can't get into and my expired passport is in the unit. Is there a way I can get the passport renewed even though I do not have it in my possession? (I just realized how "Jerry Springer" this sounds. Sorry)

Answer: In order to renew a passport by mail using Form DS-82, you are required to submit your previously-issued passport. If you are unable to get the expired passport, you will have to appear at an application acceptance facility in order to apply for a new passport.

This means you should complete application Form DS-11 and take it to the nearest Florida passport office along with evidence of United States citizenship, proof of identity, a copy of the ID, a current passport photo and payment for fees.

Note, you should not sign the application until requested to do so by an authorized acceptance agent.

Routine processing is estimated to take up to 6 weeks and expedited service can take up to 3 weeks. Passport renewals can be processed as quickly as the same day at the regional agency in Miami. If you need your passport renewed in a hurry but are unable to personally submit the application at the regional agency, you can authorize a third party to apply for the passport.