The U.S. Department of State has launched a beta version of its new online passport renewal system. This system makes it easier for eligible U.S. citizens to renew their passports online without having to mail in any documents.
The online passport renewal system will be available during a midday Eastern Time window each day and close once the daily limit of applications is met. Currently, only routine service is available, with processing times similar to mail renewals.
Here’s what you need to know about the new system, including who can use it and how to apply.
Who’s Eligible for Passport Renewal?
To renew your passport online, you must meet all the following criteria:
- Your passport must be valid for 10 years, and you must be at least 25 years old.
- It must have been issued between 2009 and 2015, or over 9 years but less than 15 years from the application date.
- You cannot change your name, gender, date of birth, or place of birth.
- You must not travel internationally for at least 8 weeks from the application date.
- Only regular (tourist) passports are eligible for online passport renewal.
- You must live in the United States or its territories and not have an APO or FPO address.
- Your current passport should have no damage and should be in your possession.
- You must be able to pay with a credit or debit card and upload a digital passport photo.
How to Renew Your Passport Online
Confirm Your Eligibility
Make sure you meet all the eligibility criteria listed above.
Create Your Account
Go to the MyTravelGov homepage and click the “Sign In” button. This will redirect you to Login.gov, where you can sign in or create a new account. The State Department offers a video that provides guidance on creating an account.
Start Your Online Passport Renewal Application
After setting up your account, click the “Renew Your Passport” button on the homepage. Note that the system is open only during a limited midday window and will close once the daily limit is reached. You can save your application and have 30 days to complete it. If not completed within this period, you must start over.
Enter Your Current Passport Information
Enter your current passport information accurately as it appears on your document. Double-check details like spelling, capitalization, hyphens, and spacing.
Enter Your Travel Plans
You must not be traveling internationally in less than 8 weeks. Routine processing times are the same for both online and mail renewals.
Upload a Digital Photo
Upload a recent, original digital photo in .JPEG format. Follow the specific photo requirements and avoid scanning or taking a photo of a printed image.
Payment and Signing
Click the “Sign and Pay” button to proceed to pay.gov. Use a credit or debit card. ACH payments may take longer.
Confirm Payment and Track Status
After payment, you will receive two emails: one confirming the payment is pending and another confirming the payment has been processed. One week after applying, check the Online Passport Status System for updates.
Final Thoughts: Beta Online Passport Renewal System
If you do not qualify for online renewal, you can still renew your passport by mail or in person at a passport agency or center. Keep your most recent passport, which will be canceled upon application submission and cannot be used for travel. For more details and updates, visit the State Department’s official website.
If you need your passport quickly, consider using The Passport Office. We have 20 years of experience as a registered courier with the State Department. We also handle both in-person applications and online renewals. Contact us today to get started on your online passport renewal.
