Online U.S. Passport Renewal Now Available for Eligible Travelers

The U.S. Department of State has announced that a limited number of eligible travelers can now renew their existing passports online.

Those looking for an easier way to renew their U.S. passports beyond sending them off in the mail will now get their wish, thanks to a new beta release of an online passport renewal service from the U.S. Department of State. According to the Department of State website, eligible U.S. citizens can now upload their documents digitally and renew their passports online.

Once visitors to the website confirm their eligibility by reading through the requirements, they'll be prompted to create an account. There's a video explaining the process for those looking for extra assistance. Once they've created an account, users can begin their online renewal application, which can be saved and completed at a later date if needed (though they'll need to start over entirely if not completed within 30 days).

From there, users will need to enter specific from information about their current passport in order for the Department to confirm online renewal eligibility, along with any travel plans they may have. The website notes specific processing times and that if folks are traveling international in less than eight weeks, online renewal is not currently possible. However, those who need their passports renewed within three to eight weeks can get expedited service, while those who need it in less than three weeks will need to make an appointment to renew in person at a passport agency or center.

The online renewal process continues with uploading a digital photo and paying passport fees. It's also recommended to enroll in email updates so travelers can be notified when their application is in process, approved, and when their passport will be sent out. The system also notifies travelers if more information is needed to process their application.

The Department says it will also limit the number of renewal applications accepted each day over the next several months so the system's performance can be monitored in real time. It's important to note this beta service applies for online renewals only and does not include initial passport applications.

Learn more by visiting U.S. Department of State.

Written by Sarah Suydam, Managing Editor for Groups Today.