How We Renewed a Passport Online in Just One Week


Yes, it really was that fast.


Gatewood Travel recently went through the online passport renewal process for a client (okay, it was the husband!) and wanted to share just how quick and convenient the experience was, along with some helpful tips to make it smooth for you, too.


If you’ve been putting off renewing your passport because you think it’ll be a hassle, this blog is for you.  


The Online Renewal Option: A Game-Changer


The U.S. State Department now offers a secure online passport renewal system, and for eligible travelers, it can save serious time and effort.


We renewed a passport on May 15, 2025 through the official government site: https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/passports/have-passport/renew-online.html


At the time, The site listed routine processing time as 4–6 weeks. But to our surprise, the new passport arrived just 7 days later, on May 22, 2025!


While this kind of fast turnaround isn’t guaranteed, it was an impressive reminder that sometimes, the system does work efficiently.


Who’s Eligible to Renew Online?


Online passport renewal is only available if you meet specific requirements, including:


  • You're renewing a tourism (regular) passport
  • You're renewing the same type of document (book or card, not switching or adding)
  • Your current passport is still valid, or expired within the last 5 years
  • You’re not changing your name, gender, or other major personal info
  • You're 25 or older


You cannot use this service if:

  • You want to upgrade from a passport card to a book (or vice versa)

  • You want both a book and a card if you didn’t have both before

  • You need to expedite processing

  • You’re traveling internationally in the next few weeks and need guaranteed timing


What You’ll Need Before You Start


The process only takes about 10–15 minutes if you have everything ready. Here’s what you’ll need:


  • Your current passport information(including passport number AND the book number)

  • A recent passport photo- (We recommend getting one at CVS or Walgreens they’ll give you both a printed and digital copy for under $20)

  • Any upcoming international travel plans

  • A debit or credit card for payment


You’ll upload your photo, fill out your application, and pay securely online. The total cost including 1–2 day shipping came out to $151.36.


Can You Expedite an Online Renewal?


No.  If you need guaranteed faster processing, you’ll need to renew by mail or in person and choose the expedited service. But, you can pay for faster return shipping once the passport is complete, which helps speed up delivery after it's printed.


Final Thoughts: Quick, Easy, Worth It


All in all, renewing a passport online was a fast, stress-free, and budget-friendly experience. For travelers who meet the eligibility requirements, it’s absolutely worth considering.


If your passport is up for renewal and you're not traveling immediately, Gatewood Travel highly recommends trying the online process. It could save you a trip to the post office and weeks of waiting, and as always for clients, we’re happy to guide you through the process.