Passport photo expert

Justine

Specialist @Snap2Pass

ยท 3 min read

How to Renew Your US Passport Online: Everything You Need to Know

passport standing on a map The US Department of State has recently reopened its portal for online passport renewal, allowing eligible individuals to submit a digital application for renewal before the end of 2022. With the expected full roll-out of the system in 2023, it is important to understand the eligibility criteria, submission process, cost, and delivery speed of the online passport renewal process. In this blog, we will provide a comprehensive guide on how to renew your passport online, answering all the questions you may have along the way.

Eligibility Criteria

Before you begin the online renewal process, it is important to ensure that you meet the eligibility criteria for online renewal. You may be eligible for online renewal if:

  • You were previously issued a passport that is undamaged and in your possession.
  • Your passport expired fewer than five years ago.
  • You are able to pay with a credit or debit card.
  • You have a tourist passport.

Unfortunately, you are not eligible for online renewal if:

  • You need a passport for the first time.
  • Your passport was lost, stolen, or damaged.
  • Your passport is more than 15 years old.
  • You want to pay with cash.
  • You have a diplomatic passport or other special issuance.
  • You are under the age of 25.

For a complete list of requirements, please refer to the US Department of State's website.

Updating Your Photo

An updated photo is required for the online renewal process. The photo must be clear, in color, and feature your face in the middle of the frame against a white background, without hats, glasses, or a smile. The photo must be a JPEG file with a minimum size of 600 x 600 pixels and must adhere to all the guidelines set by the US Department of State. You can take the photo with a smartphone, using the timer function if necessary.

The Submission Process

To begin the online renewal process, you must first sign up for a MyTravelGov account. To do this, follow these steps:

  1. Visit the government website and sign up for a MyTravelGov account.
  2. Input your name, email address, home address, and a unique password.
  3. Check your email inbox for the activation email and click on the provided hyperlink.
  4. Login to the MyTravelGov website using the information provided.
  5. Enter the time-sensitive, single-use code sent to your email.
  6. Select three security questions and provide corresponding answers to finish the initial sign-in process. Note that there may be a delay of up to four hours between account creation and registration completion. If an error message appears when you initially click on the renewal button, try again in a couple of hours.

Once your account is fully registered, you will see the option to renew your passport on the homepage under the "Welcome to MyTravelGov" section. Click on "Renew Passport" and follow the steps to confirm your eligibility, review the disclaimers, and enter the requested information from your passport. You will also be asked to share information on your travel plans, select a type of passport, confirm your personal information, and upload the updated photo.

Please note that you will have to complete the entire submission within a month. If you need more time, you can start a new application.

If you need any help with a passport photo maker and other online options, Try Snap2Pass today!

Here are some useful links for obtaining information about online passport renewal for the US: