This week, the State Department announced a beta test for an online passport renewal program, enabling U.S. travelers to renew their passports virtually.
Eligible participants are those residing in the United States with passports issued between 2009 and 2015. However, those needing to change their name or date of birth are not eligible for online renewal. Applicants must be able to upload their own photo.
Once an application is submitted, the current passport is immediately canceled. Therefore, travelers with upcoming international plans should refrain from applying online. The State Department does not require the existing passport to be mailed in.
The cost for renewing a passport online is $130, payable by credit card only.
“We appreciate your patience while we test our system and prepare for a full launch of the updated online passport renewal system,” the State Department stated on their website.
The processing time for online renewal through routine service is 6-8 weeks, excluding mailing time. Expedited or urgent processing is not available during the test phase.
For urgent renewals, travelers should make an appointment with a passport center. The State Department has also released a digital guide with videos to explain the process.
Additionally, for first-time passport applicants, the State Department has been hosting “Special Passport Acceptance Fairs” at various locations this summer to assist with the application process.