If you’re planning international travel this year, the U.S. State Department has an important reminder about renewing your passport, and it’s getting a lot of attention online.
The official @travelgov Instagram account recently posted (embedded below) a graphic clarifying a key detail about Online Passport Renewal that many travelers might overlook:
View this post on Instagram
“When you renew your U.S. passport through Online Passport Renewal you do NOT need to mail in your old passport, BUT remember that your old passport will be automatically cancelled and CANNOT be used for international travel (even before your new one arrives). Make sure you are on the official ‘.gov’ site before applying.”
That last part is critical. Make sure you’re on the official travel.state.gov website before entering any personal information or payment details.
Fast turnaround times reported
Several travelers chimed in with positive experiences.
@lsk.hansen shared: “Renewed my passport online and received it in a little over a week.”
@amyjozf added: “Super fast turnaround time!! I got mine 8 days after I applied for my renewal online. And you can renew as early as 6 months before your current passport expires. Plenty of time to plan ahead!”
That’s a helpful reminder. Many countries require at least six months of passport validity beyond your travel dates, so renewing early can prevent last-minute stress.
What about kids?
One of the most common questions came from @leoncita22: “What about for kids under 16 yo?”
@travelgov responded clearly: “Hi @leoncita22 – kids are not eligible for online passport renewal so need to apply at a passport acceptance facility. You can find more information at travel.state.gov/passport.”
So if you’re traveling as a family, keep in mind that children under 16 must apply in person.
Beware of third-party websites
Not all comments were celebratory. Some users warned about unofficial websites.
@alexinikkij wrote: “It’s a scam. Don’t do it. Make an appt at the post office.”
However, @baby_dou_d clarified: “It’s not a scam. Adults can renew passport online or by mail.”
The confusion appears to stem from third-party sites that look official.
@mary_harvey300 shared a cautionary tale: “I typed in travel.state.gov and my computer brought up Passport Hub as the first option. I filled it out, paid my money, and then found out it was a third-party company. They simply fill out your forms, mail them to you, and then you still have to mail them or take them in yourself and pay more fees.”
Her experience is a strong reminder to double-check the URL. The only official site for passport services is travel.state.gov.
Photo and expired passport questions
@11scorpio asked: “I would like to renew mine. Do I need to submit a new photo?”
@travelgov responded: “Hi @11scorpio – yes, you will need a new photo and can go to travel.state.gov/photo for instructions on how to take and upload a digital photo.”
Another common question came from @vivimar_c_val: “How about expired passport? Can I renew online?”
@travelgov clarified: “Hi @vivimar_c_val – it must have expired within the past 5 years. You can find the full requirements at travel.state.gov/renewonline.”
Bottom line
Online Passport Renewal can be fast and convenient, but there are important rules. Your old passport is immediately canceled once you apply. Kids under 16 must apply in person. A new photo is required. And perhaps most importantly, always use the official .gov website.
If you have international travel planned, now might be a good time to double-check your expiration date and renew early.
Related: 12 Passport Tips That Will Save You Time, Money and Headaches
