What You Need to Know About Online Passport Renewal

Travelers got a taste of it in 2021 – and now it looks like online passport renewal might be here to stay.

In June of 2024, the U.S. Department of State launched a beta test for renewing passports online. Eligible U.S. citizens can now apply online during limited time periods each day. Once the application quota for the day is met, the renewal portal will close until the next business day.

Renew My Passport Online

In 2023, the U.S. State Department issued a staggering 24+ million passports. Unfortunately, the unprecedented demand came with unwelcome backlogs and delays for many Americans.

As a result, the State Department is reintroducing an online plan it rolled out in 2021 before it was paused.

If you want to renew your passport online here’s what you need to know!

Who is Eligible?

To qualify for online passport renewal, you must meet the following criteria:

• 25 years of age or older
• Renew a passport issued between 2009 and 2015 OR is more than 9 years but less than 15 years from the date you plan to apply
• No change to name, gender, date of birth, or place of birth
• No international travel travel for at least 8 weeks from the date you apply
• Regular tourist passport renewals only (no special issuance like diplomatic, official, or service)
• Live in U.S. state or territory (no foreign country, Army Post Office, or Fleet Post Office address)
• Your current passport is undamaged
• Paying renewal fee with a credit or debit card
• Must be able to upload a digital photo
• Understand that the passport you are renewing will be canceled once you submit your application – you will NOT be able to travel internationally until you receive your renewed passport

How Does it Work?

If you meet the criteria listed above, you can create an account on the  MyTravelGov site. Next, start your application. The window for renewals will be open for short periods of time during midday (EST.)

If you are unable to begin, it may mean that the portal has reached its limit for the day. Remember, this portal system is being tested and monitored so you may need to try again the next day.

Once you have completed your application, watch for two follow-up emails – one to confirm that your payment is pending and one to confirm payment was received.

Finally, one week after applying, check the Online Passport Status System to opt-in to notifications regarding your renewal status.

Can I Still Get a Passport by Mail or In Person?

Yes – you can still get a passport by mail or in person. Those who are not eligible to apply online or who choose not to can submit their application renewals by mail or at a passport center.

Is Renewing Online Faster?

You will NOT receive your passport more quickly if you renew online. Just like applying in person or via mail, you can expect it to arrive approximately 6 – 8 weeks after applying.

You will, however, have an opportunity to request notifications that will let you track its approval status (see above.)

Have Passport – Will Travel!

The State Department’s online passport renewal for eligible Americans is an exciting step forward. Those with a taste for wanderlust now have an online option for securing an updated passport and exploring the world.

Let’s hope it sticks this time around!

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