Traveling internationally is an exciting adventure, but ensuring your passport is up-to-date is essential to avoid any last-minute hassles. The US Department of State has streamlined the passport renewal process, allowing you to renew your passport online. The beta testing for this system started in June 2024, and it has since made renewing passports more convenient. This comprehensive guide will walk you through each step of renewing your US passport online, providing helpful tips to ensure a smooth and successful renewal.

Why Renew Your Passport Online?

Renewing your passport online offers several advantages:

• Convenience: No need to visit a passport office or post office.
• Speed: The online process can be quicker than traditional mail-in methods.
• Tracking: Easily track the status of your application.

Eligibility for Online Passport Renewal

Before starting the online renewal process, ensure you meet the following eligibility criteria:

1. Passport Validity: The passport you are renewing must have been valid for 10 years, and you need to be at least 25 years old.
2. Issuance Date: Your current passport should have been issued between 2009 and 2015, or it should be over 9 years but less than 15 years old from the date of your application.
3. No Changes to Personal Information: You should not be changing your name, gender, date of birth, or place of birth.
4. Travel Plans: You should not be planning to travel internationally within at least 8 weeks from the application date, as only routine service is available during this period.
5. Type of Passport: You are applying for a regular (tourist) passport. Special issuance passports (diplomatic, official, service) cannot be renewed online.
6. Residence: You must reside in the United States or its territories. Applicants living abroad or with APO/FPO addresses are not eligible.
7. Current Passport Condition: Your current passport should be with you, in good condition, and not reported as lost or stolen.
8. Payment Method: You need to have a credit or debit card to pay for the renewal.
9. Digital Photo: You must be able to upload a digital passport photo that meets the specified requirements.
10. Passport Cancellation: Be aware that once you submit your application, the passport you are renewing will be canceled and cannot be used for international travel.

Note: These requirements for online US passport renewals are current as of July 3, 2024, and are subject to change.

Step-by-Step Guide to Renew Your US Passport Online

Step 1: Sign Up for a MyTravelGov Account

Create a MyTravelGov account if you don’t already have one. MyTravelGov uses login.gov for secure access. Login.gov is a service used by various US government agencies to provide secure and streamlined access to their online services. It is used for services such as applying for federal jobs, accessing Social Security information, and managing benefits. This secure online platform allows you to access passport services and track your application status.

Step 2: Begin the Online Application

After creating your account, click on the “Renew Your Passport” button on the home page to start your application.

As of July 3rd 2024: During the next several months, the number of daily applications will be limited. The system will open for a limited midday Eastern time window each day and will close once the daily limit is reached. If the limit is reached, you will need to wait to start your application. You can save your application and finish it later within 30 days. If you do not complete your application in 30 days, you will need to start over.

Step 3: Update Passport Information

The Department of State needs to verify the passport(s) you are renewing to confirm eligibility for online renewal. Enter your details exactly as they appear on your current passport, ensuring the spelling, capitalization, hyphens, and spacing are accurate.

Your most recent passport must have been valid for 10 years and should be either expiring within one year or expired for less than five years. You can renew passport books and passport cards online. If you only want to renew one and not the other, leave the corresponding section blank. If there are any issues with eligibility, the system will provide reasons. If you believe you should be eligible, try again as there might be temporary technical issues.

Ensure all information is accurate before proceeding to avoid delays in the application process.

Passport Renewal Process

1. Begin the Online Passport renewal by clicking Start

2. Read and Acknowledge the Warning, Acts or Conditions, Privacy Act Statement, Paperwork Reduction Act Statement, and each of the Notices and Disclaimers. Then, click Next

3. Confirm that you’re eligible to renew your US passport online by checking all of the eligibility requirements. After you have checked your eligibility requirements, click Next

4. Choose what you would like to renew:

• Passport Book and Card
• Passport Book
• Passport Card

Then, enter the following:

• Your Last Name
• Suffix (Optional)
• Date Of Birth
• Passport Book/Card Number
• Book/Card Issue Date

Click Next

Note: There are additional steps involved in the passport renewal process. However, I am unable to complete them at this time because my passport will not expire within the next year.

Step 4: Upload Your Digital Passport Photo

Next, you will need to upload a digital passport photo that meets specific requirements. Ensure your photo adheres to the following guidelines:

• Dimensions: The image should have large dimensions with ample space around your head and shoulders to allow for cropping. The photo can be rectangular and must be at least 600 x 600 pixels.
• Color: Use a color photo; black and white photos are not acceptable.
• Format: The photo must be in JPEG file format.
• Size: The photo should be between 54 kilobytes and 10 megabytes.
• Compression: Use the highest quality settings on your camera for a high-resolution photo. When saving or emailing the photo, choose the highest quality setting (large file size). Avoid editing or altering the photo using software or mobile apps. To prevent compression, do not send the image via text message.

Step 5: Pay the Renewal Fee

The current fee for renewing a US passport is $130 for a passport book. Additional fees apply if you also need a passport card. Accepted payment methods include credit cards, debit cards, and ACH.

In the Product Selection Cart page, you will have the option to have a Regular Passport Book (28 pages) or Large Passport Book (52 pages) at no additional cost. As of July 2024, you can only do a Routine processing method via the online renewal process, which takes about 6-8 weeks. Though the delivery method can be changed to Express, where it only takes 1 to 2 days to be delivered for an additional $19.53, rather than the Standard delivery option, which takes 3 to 5 days.

Step 6: Receive Your New Passport

Processing times can vary, but you will typically receive your new passport within 6-8 weeks for routine service and an additional week for delivery. You can choose expedited service for an additional fee if you need your passport sooner.

Tips for a Smooth Renewal Process

1. Start Early: Begin the renewal process at least six months before your passport’s expiration date to avoid any travel disruptions.
2. Check Photo Requirements: Ensure your digital photo meets all the specifications to avoid delays.
3. Keep Copies: Keep copies of your current passport and all submitted documents for your records.
4. Use a Secure Connection: When accessing the online renewal form, use a secure and private internet connection to protect your personal information.

Common Questions About Online US Passport Renewal

Can I Renew My Passport Online If It’s Lost or Stolen?

No, if your passport is lost or stolen, you must apply for a new passport in person using form DS-11 and form DS-64. The online renewal process is only for renewing undamaged, existing passports.

What If I Need My Passport Urgently?

If you need your passport urgently, you can opt for expedited service for an additional fee. Additionally, you may contact a passport agency or center to make an appointment for in-person service.

Can Anyone Renew Their US Passport Online?

Can Children Under 16 Years Old Renew Their Passport Online?

Can I Renew My Passport Online If I Changed My Name?

No, if you need to change your name, gender, date of birth, or place of birth, you cannot renew your passport online.

Can I Get A Large Passport Book If I Renew My Passport Online?

Yes, you can obtain both the Regular and Large Passport Book at no additional costs. The Large Passport Book allows you to get additional visa pages on your passport.

Is There a Fee Waiver for Online Renewal?

As of July 3rd 2024, there are no fee waivers for passport renewal. All applicants must pay the standard renewal fee.

Can I Pay for My Passport with a Credit Card?

What’s the Cost for a US Passport?

What’s the Cost to Expedite a US Passport?

Conclusion

Renewing your US passport online is a convenient and efficient process, allowing you to avoid the hassle of in-person visits and lengthy mail-in applications. By following this step-by-step guide, you can ensure a smooth and successful renewal, keeping your travel plans on track. Remember to start the process early, gather all necessary documents, and carefully follow the instructions to enjoy a stress-free passport renewal experience.

For the latest information and updates on passport renewal, visit the US Department of State website.