In a world where AI can analyze data and make decisions faster than any human, we can control our homes with a voice command, and we can manage our finances with just a few taps, it’s baffling to see how many bureaucratic processes are stuck in the past. Having lived in South Korea, where each year I can file my taxes online in a matter of minutes, I know it doesn’t have to be this way.
Thankfully, processes in the U.S. government are finally starting to catch up. As of June, 2024, the Department of State released an online passport renewal process available to the public in a beta release. The Department of State witnessed how popular online passport renewals were during their limited trial in 2023 which saw over 500,000 Americans using the online renewal system. Now it’s back to stay. Here is all of the information you need to know about renewing your U.S. passport online.
In This Guide
- Who is Eligible to Renew a U.S. Passport Online?
- Current Limitations of the U.S. Passport Online Application Beta Release
- How Much Does It Cost to Renew a Passport Online?
- What Documents Do I Need to Renew Online?
- Benefits of Renewing Your Passport Online
- Easy Step-by-Step Guide to Renew a U.S. Passport Online
- Digital Photo Requirements for an Online Passport Renewal
- Processing Times and What to Expect
- FAQs About Online Passport Renewal
Who is Eligible to Renew a U.S. Passport Online?
To renew your U.S. passport online, you must meet the following eligibility criteria:
- Your current passport is/was valid for 10 years, and you are 25 years or older.
- Your passport was issued between 2009 and 2015, or between 9 and 15 years before your application date.
- No changes to your name, gender, date of birth, or place of birth.
- You are not traveling internationally within 8 weeks from the application date. Only routine service is available, with processing times similar to mail renewals.
- You are renewing a regular (tourist) passport. Special issuance passports (diplomatic, official, service) cannot be renewed online.
- You live in the United States (state or territory). Online renewal is not available for those living abroad or with an APO/FPO address.
- You have your undamaged passport, which has not been reported lost or stolen. Keep your current passport; do not mail it.
- You can pay for your passport using a credit or debit card.
- You can upload a digital passport photo.
Note: Your passport will be canceled immediately after you submit your application and cannot be used for international travel.
When you are not eligible to renew online, you must renew your passport by mail or by visiting a passport agency.
Current Limitations of the U.S. Passport Online Application Beta Release
While the online renewal system offers convenience, it does come with several limitations:
- Limited daily application slots available starting at midday ET (~1 pm). The exact number of available slots is not disclosed by the U.S. Department of State.
- Only routine service is available (4-6 weeks processing time, same as regular mail-in).
- Your current passport is canceled immediately upon renewal, so you cannot travel while your new passport is being processed.
How Much Does It Cost to Renew a Passport Online?
To renew your U.S. adult passport online, the costs are:
- $130 for a Passport Book
- $30 for a Passport Card
Standard USPS priority mail is included in the price. Expedited processing or 1-2 day shipping is not currently available through the online system, except in cases of sudden travel plan changes where you can contact support directly.
The cost for renewing a passport online is the same as mail-in renewals, except there is no additional cost to mail your documents to the U.S. Department of State.
What Documents Do I Need to Renew Online?
To renew your passport online, you will need the following documents:
- A digital photo meeting specific requirements (See requirements)
- Your current passport information
- A debit or credit card to pay online
Tip: ACH (Automated Clearing House) payments from your bank are accepted, but will cause additional processing delays.
Here is a chart detailing what you need based on what you currently have and what you want:
| I want to renew my: | I need: |
|---|---|
| Passport Book | Current Passport Book |
| Passport Card | Current Passport Card |
| Passport Book and Card | Current Passport Book and Card |
| Note: Digital photo & payment is required for all options | |
Learn more: Passport Card vs. Passport Book: Which Do You Need?
Benefits of Renewing Your Passport Online
Renewing your passport online offers several advantages:
- No need to ship your passport to an acceptance facility
- No need to print and prepare documents
- Easy to track the status of your application
- Simple and secure digital submission process
Easy Step-by-Step Guide to Renew a U.S. Passport Online
Create Your MyTravelGov Account
- Visit the MyTravelGov website and click on “Create Account”.
- Enter your personal information and create a secure password.
- Verify your email address to activate your account.
Start Your Application
- Log in to your MyTravelGov account.
- Click on “Renew Passport Online” to start your application.
- Save your progress regularly to avoid losing any information.
Tip: Applications currently open at midday ET. If you start an application and save your progress, you can complete your application within 30 days.
Enter Passport Information
- Accurately enter your current passport details as requested.
- Double-check the information to ensure there are no errors.
Upload a Digital Photo
- Ensure your photo meets the passport photo requirements.
- Upload the photo in the specified file format.
- Review the uploaded photo for clarity and adherence to guidelines.
Sign and Pay
- Review your application details and make any necessary corrections.
- Sign the application electronically.
- Pay the renewal fee using a credit or debit card.
Digital Photo Requirements for an Online Passport Renewal
Dimensions and Size:
- Minimum of 600 x 600 pixels.
- File size between 54 KB and 10 MB.
Format and Quality:
- JPEG format.
- Use a high-resolution setting; do not compress the image.
Color and Background:
- Color photo only; no black and white.
- Plain white or off-white background without shadows.
Pose and Expression:
- Face forward, eyes open, mouth closed.
- No glasses or headgear unless for religious purposes.
Submission Guidelines:
- Do not scan a printed photo.
- Ensure there is space around your head and shoulders to allow for cropping.
For a detailed guide on taking a passport photo at home, check out: How to Take the Perfect Passport Photo: Guidelines and Tips.
Processing Times and What to Expect
The processing times for online passport renewal are:
- Routine Service: 4-6 weeks
- Expedited Service: Available upon request in cases of urgent travel plans
Learn more: How to Get a U.S. Passport in 2 Weeks or Less
FAQs About Online Passport Renewal
Can a U.S. passport be renewed online?
Yes, eligible U.S. passports can be renewed online.
What is the fastest way to renew my U.S. passport?
The fastest way is through expedited processing or in-person renewal at a passport agency.
When do the application slots open?
Application slots open at midday ET (~1 pm) each day.
Do I need my current passport to renew online?
Officially, yes, you need your passport in hand to renew online. It will be immediately canceled after you submit your application and you do not need to mail it in. You do not need to upload any image of your existing passport and will only enter the passport details within the online passport application.
Can I renew an expired passport online?
Yes, as long as your passport has not been expired for more than 5 years, you can renew it online.
Do I need to complete the DS-82 form to renew my passport online?
No, all necessary information is collected via the online application and no additional form is required.
» MORE:
What Actions to Take if You Lose Your Passport Abroad
How to Secure Your Child’s First U.S. Passport
Understanding the Differences: Passport Card vs. Passport Book
Best Tips for Passport Safety During Travel
Expedited Passport Services: Quick and Easy Guide