This pilot program is only available for the first 25,000 people who sign up, so get your application in ASAP
Whether you are planning an international vacation or just preparing yourself to escape the country if needed, it’s always good to make sure that your passport is up to date. The U.S. State Department just launched a pilot program that makes the renewal process more manageable as you can now renew your passport online. In the past, renewals had to be sent in by mail and then you just cross your fingers that it makes it there and back to you again before your trip. Kind of nerve-wracking!
To be eligible for this pilot program, all of the following needs to apply:
- Your most recent passport was valid for 10 years and you are age 25 or older.
- Your most recent passport was issued at least 9 years ago but no more than 15 years ago (so, between 2007 and 2013).
- You are not changing your name, gender, date of birth, or place of birth.
- You are not taking an international trip for at least 5 weeks from the date you submit your renewal application (current processing times are 5-7 weeks for expedited service and 8-12 weeks for routine service).
- You have possession of your passport and have not reported it missing or stolen.
- You live in the U.S.
Those wishing to renew their passport online will need to create a MyTravelGov account and wait for the account to be registered (approx. 24 hours). Once the registration is approved, you will see a “Renew Passport” button when you log in to your account and you can proceed. You will be asked to upload a digital passport photo and pay for processing.
Both passport books and passport cards are available through this online system. Email updates will be sent to notify you when your application is processed and your new passport is mailed.
It is anticipated that this process will continue after the pilot program phase, which is great news for travelers!
Related: Our Editors’ Top Tips to Make Traveling by Air a Little Easier This Summer
