If your US passport has expired, then it would be wise to renew it as soon as possible. The unpredictability of life suggests that these things should not be left for the last moment as you never know when you would need to travel internationally.

If your previous U.S. passport is less than 15 years old, and you were above 16 years of age at the time you obtained it, or your current passport is not damaged and you still bear the same name, you are eligible to apply for it by mail. However, if you fail to meet these criteria, you will have to apply for it in person. In any other case, you can do so by mail. If the passport has to be renewed via mail then a completed, dated and signed 'DS-82' application form must be filled out and sent along with the present or expired passport, two passport-sized photos and the payment. The total fee for renewal comes up to $67. In case the name of the applicant has changed, he must also attach the original (not a mimeographed copy) and a legal document certifying the same. For applicants residing outside the USA, passports can be renewed at the closest US Consulate or US Embassy.

Keeping in mind the value of time of the customers, a reliable service is offered by bodies known as 'passport expeditors' who help to speed up the process of passport renewal. This can be done in only 24 hours and can cost around $150 (depending on the passport expeditor), thereby avoiding the cancellation of your travel plans and helping you to keep your spirits high so you can fully enjoy your travel.