For U.S. citizens, renewing a passport just got easier with the rollout of the State Department’s new online passport renewal system. Initially launched as a beta program, the system is gradually being introduced over the next several months, with plans for full implementation soon.

Who Is Eligible?

Not everyone can renew their passport online. To qualify, applicants must meet specific criteria, including:

• Their current passport was issued between 2009 and 2015 and is valid for 10 years.
• They are 25 years of age or older.
• They are not requesting changes to their name, gender, or place of birth.

If you don’t meet these requirements, you’ll need to renew your passport by mail or in person at a passport agency. Check the full eligibility criteria on the State Department’s website.

When Can You Apply?

The online system operates on a limited basis each day, opening at 1 p.m. Eastern Time. However, the system will close once the daily application limit is reached. The Department of State has not disclosed the exact threshold but has stated it will gradually increase over time to monitor the system’s functionality.

If you’re unable to apply on your chosen day, don’t worry—you can try again another day. Be aware that processing times for online renewals are the same as mail renewals, and travelers should plan ahead, as online applicants won’t be able to travel internationally for at least eight weeks after submitting their application.

How to Apply

Here’s how to get started with your online passport renewal:

1. Create an Account: Visit the MyTravelGov homepage and create an account.
2. Start the Application: Once logged in, click the “Renew Your Passport” button. You have 30 days to complete your application after starting it; otherwise, you’ll need to restart.
3. Provide Passport Information: Enter details from your most recent passport and your travel plans to confirm eligibility.
4. Upload a Digital Photo: Submit a high-quality digital photo in .JPEG format. Note that selfies, scanned photos, or images of printed photos will not be accepted.
5. Track Your Application: Use the Online Passport Status System to receive email updates on the status of your application, from processing to approval and delivery.

Keep in mind that occasional technical issues may arise as the system undergoes further testing.

What to Expect Next

President Joe Biden’s 2021 executive order initiated this online renewal system as part of broader efforts to modernize government services post-pandemic. While the program briefly launched in 2022, it was paused to address technical issues and ensure smoother functionality.

The Department of State emphasizes that this beta phase is a standard part of software development and aims to refine the system before its official rollout.

With the online renewal system, the State Department hopes to make the process more convenient and accessible for U.S. citizens. For those who meet the eligibility requirements, this could mean one less trip to the post office or passport agency—and more time planning your next adventure.