Write an article based on this "Get your old passport. Get new passport photos. Download the correct form. Decide whether you want a passport book, passport card, or both. Check processing time online."
If your passport has expired, you can renew it provided it is undamaged and was issued within the last 15 years. If your current passport is older than that, or damaged beyond normal wear and tear, you'll have to complete a new application. You also cannot renew an older passport if it was issued before you were 16 years old. If your name is different from the name on your passport, you'll have to supply documentation of the name change. You may want to apply in person rather than submitting these documents through the mail. When you renew your passport, you must submit updated passport photos that have been taken in the last 6 months. You may be able to save some money by doing it yourself, but typically it's easier to get it done by a professional. If you decide to take your photo yourself, go to https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/passports/requirements/photos.html and review the requirements. There is also a link on that page to a tool you can use to crop your photo to the right size. You can get your passport photo taken at many pharmacies and discount stores. It usually only costs a few dollars, and you can be assured that your photo will meet the State Department requirements. If you're renewing your passport by mail, you must complete form DS-82. If you need to apply in person to renew your passport, you'll need form DS-11. Both of these forms can be downloaded from the website of the U.S. State Department. Go to https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/passports/requirements/forms.html to access the forms. You have the option of filling the form out online and printing it off or downloading a PDF to print and fill out by hand. If you're filling out form DS-11 to apply in person, do not sign it until you get to the Regional Passport Agency. A passport card is only valid for land or sea travel to Canada, Mexico, Bermuda, or the Caribbean. All international air travel requires a passport book. If you're not sure which you'll need, go ahead and get the passport book, which is valid for all international travel by air, land, or sea. The most recent estimates for processing times are available at travel.state.gov. Processing times change seasonally, and it may take longer depending on when you plan to submit your application. Generally, you can expect to receive a new passport within 6 to 8 weeks if you use routine service, and 2 to 3 weeks if you use expedited service. If you have travel plans within the next 2 weeks, you can apply in person and get your new passport within 8 days.