How I did it: Living in the US and having my passport expire before I could return to Canada made things a whole lot trickier for me.
First they make you use a different form (I got rejected once for using the incorrect one).

Next are the strict requirements for passport photographs (ex: Different picture size, "neutral" facial expression aka no smiling, photo has to show shoulders, clear image, etc etc), and I got rejected AGAIN for not meeting one of the requirements (damn you CVS and your blurry photos!).
You also have to have the name and address of the "photographer" (ex: Sears photo studio) and date the picture was taken on the back of one of the photos.

Then there's the required documents: a birth certificate, photocopy of the old passport signed and dated by a notary, doctor, etc who has known you for at least two years. They also have to sign on the back of one of your new passport picture attesting to your identity.

They charge about 100$ fee to renew it, but I'm not exactly sure if that also includes my other 2 failed attempts...

Lessons & tips: 1. Read the instructions very carefully.
2. Make note of Everything you need.
3. If you're unsure of the quality of the photographs, (better safe than 100$ less in your wallet) get them taken again... preferably by another place.
4. I recomend a portrait studio over CVS or Walgreens, sure it's about twice the price, but it'll be done right.
5. Make sure the form is filled correctly.

Resources: The instructions that come with the passport renewal form.
Sears Portrait Studio

Sep 21, 02:38PM PDT | 0 comments | 3 cheers