Summary
Online Passport Renewal Process
As the State Department has rolled out a pilot program to renew passports online, one user confirmed to iBestTravel that the process was simpler than he expected. Traveler Matt Kneller expressed, “In terms of just getting [it] out and submitted, it was a fairly seamless process. It was a fairly straightforward experience.”
Instead of printing pages and mailing them, he completed the entire process in less than an hour.
Qualifications for Online Renewal
The pilot program, open to the first 25,000 applicants, launched following an executive order from President Joe Biden requiring the government to design a new online system. Kneller, who is headed to Vietnam, Thailand, and Bali in 9 weeks, could complete the online process because he met certain criteria:
- At least 25 years old
- Old passport issued between nine and 15 years ago
- Cannot change name, gender, date of birth, or place of birth during renewal
This flexibility is a significant advantage for travelers looking to renew their passports efficiently. The convenience extends to being able to take his own photograph instead of traveling to get a passport photo taken.
Payment Options for Applicants
In this new system, applicants can pay with either a credit or debit card or use an ACH (Automated Clearing House) payment to transfer funds directly from their bank accounts. This is a change from the traditional mail-in method, where sending a check was required. Consequently, Kneller found the credit card option beneficial as he was unsure where his checkbook was located.
Processing Times for Renewals
After submitting the application, Kneller received email confirmation that kept him updated about his application status. Processing times for online renewals are expected to mirror those for renewals by mail. Currently, routine processing takes eight to 11 weeks, while expedited processing is available for an extra fee and generally takes five to seven weeks, according to the State Department.
Additionally, when Kneller submitted his application, he was informed that his old passport would become null and void. This is another improvement, as the mail-in process typically requires travelers to return their old passports.
Overall, Kneller characterized the online passport renewal process as intuitive and “painless,” which contrasts sharply with typical government services. “I haven’t been to a DMV in forever… but everybody remembers that experience,” he noted. “This process is long overdue, but surprisingly seamless. There were no issues.” The State Department plans to expand this online system to the general public later this year.
Alison Fox is a contributing writer for iBestTravel. When she’s not in New York City, she enjoys spending time at the beach or exploring new destinations, aiming to visit every country in the world. Follow her adventures on Instagram.
