After launching a trial earlier this summer, the U.S. State Department has now officially opened up an online program that will allow citizens to renew their passports online.
That should eliminate the headache of applying in person or sending documents via the mail, but there are a few hurdles. If you’re planning an overseas getaway, here’s what you need to know.
Where can I renew my passport online?
Head to the State Department’s website to start the process. From there, the service will determine if you’re eligible and walk you through the process.
Will renewing online get my passport to me any faster?
At the moment, no. And, if you’re in a rush, this probably isn’t the optimal way to go. The processing time for online renewal applications is six to eight weeks, the same time frame you would face with an in-person or mailed application.
What’s more, online applicants can’t take advantage of expedited service. So if you’ve got a last-minute trip coming up, you’re going to have to use the older methods.
Who is eligible to renew their passport online?
The State Department says only adults can take advantage of the online renewal process. And if your passport has been expired for more than five years, you’re not eligible. People whose passports are set to expire in the next year are also eligible to use the online service.
Has the State Department done online renewals of passports before?
Kind of. The State Department tested online renewals in 2022, but discontinued the program in 2023, as the backlog for approvals grew due to pandemic-related staffing woes and a rush on applications, which soared as high as 500,000 per week.
How do I upload my passport picture when renewing online?
You’ll have to have a color digital photo to upload—and not a scanned image of a photo. The background must be plain white or off-white with no shadows. And remember not to smile and show your full face. No selfies are allowed and the photo cannot be more than six months old.
Photos don’t need to be square, but have lots of room around your head for the tool’s cropping mechanism.
Can I apply online for my first passport?
No. First-time applicants must apply through the mail still.