Is your US Passport going to expire this year? It takes some organization, planning, and unfortunately, a bit of money, but it’s not as big a hassle as you may think. Follow these 4 steps, and you’ll ensure you never get left on the wrong side of the border!

Don’t Let Your Passport Expire

Make sure you are already aware of when your passport is going to expire. Set a calendar reminder six months before your passport is set to expire, reminding you to get the process started. Many countries require at least three months’ validity left on your passport from the time you complete your intended travel, so it pays to give yourself some buffer time in case passport processing wait times are longer than usual. Once renewed, most passports and passport cards are valid for ten years from the date of issue.

Check All of the Boxes

After you’ve determined your current passport’s expiration, take a good look at your current passport and answer the following questions:

• Was it issued within the last 15 years?
• Is it undamaged?
• Is it issued in your current name?
• Were you at least 16 years old when you got it?
• Can you confirm that your passport has never been mutilated, damaged, lost, stolen, and subsequently found?

If you answered “no” to any of these questions, then you are unable to renew your passport by mail. There are 27 acceptance facilities around the country that you can visit to apply for renewal in person. If you answered “yes” to all of the questions above, then you’re able to apply for renewal by mail. The only exception is if you have had a name change and are able to document it with an original or certified copy of your marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. If so, then you may still apply for renewal by mail.

Apply by Mail

If you’re able to renew your passport by mail, then you’ll need to fill out a DS-82 form, which can be downloaded online and asks for standard information like your social security number, address, and most recent passport number. You’ll also be able to select if you want a “regular” book or a larger, 52-page passport – for those of you who are extreme globetrotters! Once you print out the form, attach one photo of yourself to the application and enclose your current passport, the form and a check with the appropriate fee ($110 and up) in a securely sealed envelope that doesn’t require you to fold any paperwork. If you’ve had a name change, include the appropriate documents. When shipping, make sure you sign up for a trackable delivery method. Once approved, your new passport will be delivered via Priority Mail with Delivery Confirmation, unless you pay for Priority Express return service. Your old passport may arrive separately, and will probably have holes punched through it. Any certificates you’ve enclosed will also be returned to you.

Photo Requirements

The main reason passport applications are denied are due to bad photos. Which is why it’s all the more important that you know the rules before you head to the photo booth. Check online to find locations near you that offer passport photo services. Many one-hour-photo kiosks can properly assist. The photo must be 2×2 inches and contain only the top of your head to the bottom of your chin. The photo must also be in color and the background must be all white or off-white. You’ll have to face the camera directly with your face in full view. You’re allowed to naturally smile if you wish and both eyes must be open. However, as of November 1, 2016, eyeglasses must be removed for official passport photos.