Renewing a passport has become more convenient with the State Department’s new beta test of an online passport renewal program, allowing eligible travelers in the United States to complete the process digitally. This initiative targets passport holders whose documents were issued between 2009 and 2015 and do not require changes to their name or date of birth. Applicants must also be capable of uploading their own photo.
Once submitted online, the current passport is immediately canceled, making it unsuitable for imminent international travel plans. The process incurs a fee of $130, payable by credit card, and typical processing times range from 6 to 8 weeks, excluding mailing time.
While the online test phase does not accommodate expedited services, travelers needing urgent renewal are advised to schedule an appointment at a passport center. The State Department offers a comprehensive digital guide with instructional videos to assist applicants through the renewal process, underscoring ongoing improvements to streamline passport services.
