Renewing a U.S. Passport Online? Check Eligibility and Avoid Unofficial Sites

Eligible U.S. citizens can renew passports online, but the State Department warns about unofficial renewal websites. Check these requirements before you submit.

Last updated: October 8, 2026.

Online passport renewal can remove a trip to the post office, but it is only available to eligible applicants and it is easy to mistake a commercial website for the official government service.

Quick takeaway: The State Department says eligible U.S. citizens can renew online for routine service. Applicants generally must be at least 25, have a qualifying 10-year passport expiring within one year or expired less than five years ago, and not be traveling for at least six weeks.

Use the Official .gov Site

The State Department warns that private websites may charge extra fees or collect personal data without being authorized to submit an online renewal for you.

Online Renewal Is Not for Everyone

You cannot use the standard online renewal path for a child under 16, and other eligibility restrictions apply. Name or other personal-information changes may also require a different process.

Do Not Use Online Renewal for Urgent Travel

Online renewal is for routine service and cannot be expedited through the online process. Check current processing guidance before making nonrefundable travel plans.

Track the Application After Submission

Use the State Department’s official status tools rather than giving passport details to third-party tracking sites.

The Bottom Line

Online renewal is convenient when you qualify, but passport applications involve sensitive personal information. Start at the State Department’s official site and confirm the current requirements before paying.

Sources: U.S. State Department — Renew Your Passport Online; Renew or Replace a Passport.

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