After my recent trip to France, I realized that my Passport expires in 6½ months. I started to think about renewing it to avoid any future problems. I have a friend who waited for the week and it was a real headache for him. I want to avoid this and found out now you can renew your passport online. I love shopping online so I figured I would check out the government’s online service. First off, it is not as good as Amazon!! Let us see if I can renew my passport from the comfort of my home.
Eligibility Check
First, navigate to the US Department of State website to ensure that you are eligible for online renewal. That requires you to track down your current passport. Easy. The rules require that it be issued within the past 15 years.
Account Setup
Set up an account (or log into your existing account) at the U.S. Department of State website. This is the same login that you may have set up for Global Entry or TSA Pre. This account will allow you to track your application status and receive updates.
Renewal Process — Application Form
Complete the DS-82 form online. You will need to provide personal information, your passport details, and upload a digital photo that meets the U.S. passport photo requirements. The passport photo is the one item that I will need to leave the comfort of my home and head to CVS. Remember, no smiling allowed for the photo.
Submission
After filling out the form, review your information for accuracy. Next, pay the renewal fee with a credit card or electronic bank transfer.
Mailing Your Old Passport
Once you have completed and submitted your application, print the confirmation and mail it along with your current passport. The address will be provided on the confirmation page. Since they invalidate your passport once you submit the form, I do not know why they need my current passport.
Tracking and Updates — Status Updates
After submitting your application, you can track its status through your online account. The process generally takes 6-8 weeks. The site says no expedited services are available. Fingers crossed!
Benefits of Online Renewal
My take on the benefits of online renewal.
- Convenience: The entire process can be done from home.
- Ease of Use: The process is not complicated and anyone with reasonable intelligence can navigate through the process.
- Efficiency: Digital submissions often result in quicker processing times.
- Trackable: Easily monitor your application status through your account.
I am still waiting for my passport. I will update you on any noteworthy developments. Safe travels, and may your journeys be as smooth as your passport renewal! 🌍✈️