You Can Now Renew Your Passport Online - if You Meet the Criteria

“During the next several months, we plan to continue to limit the number of applications accepted each day so we can monitor the system’s performance in real time,” the State Department says. “This beta release during which we are limiting the daily applications is an important and standard part of the software development process.”   

It is the second time that the State Department allows Americans to renew their passports online. A previous pilot program that took place between August 2022 and March 2023 got over 500,000 applications.

Not all those needing to renew their passport can do it online, however. Applicants must meet the following requirements:

• The passport being renewed is or was valid for 10 years, and the applicant is 25 years of age or older.
• The passport being renewed is a regular tourist passport.
• The passport being renewed was issued over nine years ago but less than 15 years ago.
• The applicant is not changing their name, gender, date of birth, or place of birth.
• The applicant must have no plan to travel internationally for at least eight weeks.
• The applicant lives in a US state or territory.
• The passport being renewed is in good condition and has not been reported as lost or stolen.

The processing time for an online passport application is the same as an application sent by mail, and so is the price: $130. Applicants can use either a credit card or a debit card to pay for their online application.

The first step to applying for a new passport online is to create an account on MyTravelGov. After that, all the applicant needs to do is click the “Renew Your Passport” button and follow the instructions. During the process, applicants need to enter information about their current passport, as well as their upcoming travel plans. They must also upload a digital passport photo before signing their application and making the payment.

Applicants who opt to renew their passport online during this trial period will receive their new passport by mail after the application is approved.

Be aware that upon submitting your application online, the passport you are renewing gets canceled and can’t be used any longer.

During this trial period, US citizens can also renew their passport in person at passports agencies, passport fairs, or by mail.

After this trial period, the State Department plans to fully open the system for online renewals.