Are you due for a passport renewal? Good news! If you meet certain requirements, you can now renew your U.S. passport online instead of going through the traditional mail process. Here’s what you need to know.
Eligibility Requirements
To renew your passport online, you must meet the following criteria:
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Valid Passport: The passport you are renewing is or was valid for 10 years, and you are 25 years of age or older.
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Issuance Period: Your passport was issued between 2009 and 2015, or it is over 9 years but less than 15 years from the date you plan to submit your application.
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No Changes Needed: You are not changing your name, gender, date of birth, or place of birth.
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Travel Timeline: You are not traveling for at least 8 weeks from the date you submit your application. Note that routine service will be the only option available, and processing times will be similar to those of mail renewals.
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Passport Type: You are applying for a regular (tourist) passport. Special issuance passports (diplomatic, official, service) cannot be renewed online.
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U.S. Residency: You must live in the United States (including its territories). If you reside in a foreign country or have an Army Post Office (APO) or Fleet Post Office (FPO) address, you do not qualify for online renewal.
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Condition of Passport: You have your current passport in hand, and it is neither damaged nor mutilated. It must not have been reported lost or stolen.
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Payment Method: You can pay the renewal fee using a credit or debit card.
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Digital Photo: You can upload a digital passport photo that meets the required specifications.
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Cancellation Acknowledgment: You understand that the passport you are renewing will be canceled after you submit your application, and you cannot use it for international travel.
Steps to Renew Online
If you meet all the requirements listed above, follow these steps to renew your passport online:
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Create an Online Account: Visit the MyTravelGov homepage and create an account.
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Complete the Application: Fill out the online application, providing details about your previous passport.
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Upload Your Photo: Submit your digital passport photo according to the guidelines provided.
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Make Payment: Complete the payment for your passport renewal using your credit or debit card.
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Sign and Submit: Digitally sign the application and submit it.
Renewing your passport online can save you time and hassle. Be sure to gather all necessary documents and information before starting the process. Safe travels!