Americans Can Now Renew Their Passport Online

After a two-month trial program that took place over the summer, on Wednesday, September 19, 2024, the US Department of State will finally open the online passport renewal system nationally.

Thanks to the new program, passport applicants will be able avoid a trip to the passport agency or to the post office to mail their application.

This summer’s short trial of the online passport renewal system was the second time that the Department of State allowed Americans to renew their passports online. A previous pilot program took place between August 2022 and March 2023.

Not all those needing to renew their passport will be able to 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 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.

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

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