Q: What new option do Americans have to renew their passports?

A: The U.S. Department of State announced in September a new service, enabling Americans to renew passports online. This is good news. Americans have enjoyed a robust return to international travel that contributed to a post-pandemic backlog for passport applications and renewals. More Americans have passports than at any time in U.S. history: 46 percent in 2023 compared to 30 percent a generation ago.

Whether applying online or through postal mail, my advice for Iowans is to apply early. Double check the date your passport expires and get a head start on the renewal process. Also be aware certain countries will not allow entry if a traveler’s passport is set to expire within six months of entering the country. Learn more about specific entry requirements for countries on your travel itinerary at https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel/International-Travel-Country-Information-Pages.html

I’m glad the State Department is taking steps to provide better, more efficient service to the American people. After all, government is a service to the people. That’s why I work to hold federal agencies accountable to help ensure they provide the most effective service for the taxpayer.

Now, instead of printing a paper application and mailing in a check, eligible U.S. citizens may renew their passports online using a secure process through the State Department. To renew online go to https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/passports/have-passport/renew-online.html. Applications through postal mail are still available and must be used for those seeking expedited services, children under age 16, and citizens applying for a passport for the first time. Travelers with urgent, life-or-death emergencies, traveling in 14 days or less, or who need a foreign visa within 28 calendar days must make an in-person appointment at a passport agency. Call (877) 487-2778 to schedule an emergency appointment.

Q: Who is eligible to renew passports online?

A: The online renewal service is open to U.S. citizens age 25 or older who are renewing a passport that is or was valid for 10 years. Specifically, passports that were issued over nine years ago, but less than 15 years from the date you submit your online application. Online renewal isn’t available for applicants changing a name, gender, date of birth or place of birth. Keep in mind the online portal is not for expedited service, this is for routine processing times that are the same as renewing by mail. You don’t need to mail in your most recent passport and can upload a current digital passport photo. Payment is made with a credit or debit card. Be aware infants also require a valid passport to travel abroad. Passports for those 16 and younger are valid for only five years and require parents and guardians to accompany the minor in person when making application at a passport acceptance facility, located at designated local government offices, post offices or libraries. Find a local passport acceptance facility at https://iafdb.travel.state.gov/. If both parents have custody, but only one can appear in person, you will need to show more documentation and submit a statement of consent.

Q: What if a passport is needed sooner than the estimated six- to eight-week processing period?

A: The State Department offers expedited service requests for an extra $60, as well as a one- to two-day delivery of the completed passport for an additional $21.36. Mailing times are not included in the processing times. The expedited service turnaround is between two and three weeks and is not available online. The State Department offers an online fee calculator to help you figure out the cost and delivery of your passport at https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/passports/how-apply/fees.html.

As always, Iowans having difficulty navigating the process or getting answers may contact my Senate office for assistance. To assist you, a consent form is required to look into your case. Fill out, sign and submit the online form. Go to Help With Federal Agencies | Senator Chuck Grassley (senate.gov).

U.S. Sen. Charles Grassley, a Republican, represents Iowa.