Summary
Passport Renewal Process Overview
Travelers will have the ability to renew their passports online starting next year when the State Department is set to introduce this option to the general public. This convenient online renewal process, which started as a pilot program in August, will be fully available to all travelers in early 2023, as reported by The New York Times.
Requirements for Online Renewal
To successfully renew their passports online, travelers must meet specific criteria:
- Applicant must be at least 25 years old.
- The most recent passport must have been valid for 10 years.
- The old passport should have been issued between nine years ago and 15 years ago.
- Currently, applicants cannot change their name, gender, date of birth, or place of birth during the renewal process.
Additionally, travelers can take and upload their own photos and can pay using a credit or debit card, or by utilizing an ACH (Automated Clearing House) payment to transfer funds from their bank account.
Expected Wait Times
Passport wait times for online renewals align with those of mail-in renewals, which currently average seven to ten weeks for routine service. Furthermore, expedited service typically takes about four to six weeks, as stated by the State Department.
Passport Fees
Travelers renewing their passports must pay a fee of $130 for the passport book. This fee has increased recently, specifically in December 2021. If travelers desire expedited service, an additional charge of $60 is applicable. Optionally, individuals may also choose to pay an extra $18.32 for one to two-day delivery of their passports.
Special Passport Fairs
In conjunction with the online renewal process, the State Department is organizing special passport fairs across the nation. These fairs primarily cater to first-time applicants and children, offering further assistance with the passport application process.
