You cannot apply for a first-time U.S. passport entirely online, but you can complete parts of the process digitally before submitting your application in person. Online passport renewal is available for eligible individuals who already hold a valid passport. The U.S. Department of State provides digital tools to fill out forms, schedule appointments, and track application status, but first-time applicants and minors must appear in person at an acceptance facility.

• First-time applicants must submit Form DS-11 in person at an authorized facility (e.g., Post Office, courthouse) ^[3][4][5]
• Passport renewals can be completed online if you meet eligibility criteria (e.g., undamaged passport issued within the last 15 years) ^[2][6]
• Online tools allow you to fill out forms (DS-11, DS-82) digitally, then print and submit them ^[8]
• Expedited services are available for urgent travel, with options to track status online after 14 business days ^[1][5]

Passport Application Process: Online vs. In-Person Requirements

First-Time Passport Applications: Mandatory In-Person Submission

First-time adult applicants (age 18+) and all minors under 16 must apply for a passport in person, regardless of whether they start the process online. This requirement ensures identity verification and document authentication by an authorized agent. The process involves multiple steps that combine digital preparation with physical submission.

You can begin by using the Passport Form Wizard to determine the correct form (DS-11 for first-time applicants) and fill it out online before printing ^[7][8]. However, the completed form must be submitted at an acceptance facility, such as:

• U.S. Post Offices (appointments recommended) ^[5]
• County clerk’s offices or public libraries (varies by location)
• Passport agencies (for expedited processing with proof of imminent travel) ^[3]

Key requirements for in-person submission include:

• Proof of U.S. citizenship: Original or certified copy of a birth certificate, naturalization certificate, or previous passport (if applicable) ^[3]
• Government-issued photo ID: Such as a driver’s license or military ID, plus a photocopy ^[3][5]
• Passport photo: Must meet strict size and quality standards (2x2 inches, white background, no glasses/headwear unless for religious reasons) ^[3]
• Payment: Fees vary by processing speed (standard vs. expedited) and passport type (book, card, or both). As of 2024, standard adult passport book fees start at $130, plus a $35 acceptance fee ^[7]
• Parental consent for minors: Both parents or legal guardians must appear in person with the child or provide notarized consent (Form DS-3053) ^[5]

The U.S. Department of State emphasizes that no first-time passport can be fully processed online due to fraud prevention measures ^[4]. After submission, you can track your application status online after 14 business days via passportstatus.state.gov ^[1][8].

Passport Renewals: Eligibility for Online Processing

Eligible U.S. citizens can renew their passports entirely online through the MyTravelGov portal, a service launched by the U.S. Department of State to streamline routine renewals ^[2][6]. To qualify for online renewal, you must meet all the following criteria:

• Your most recent passport was issued when you were age 16 or older ^[2]
• The passport was issued within the last 15 years (or within the last 5 years for the online pilot program) ^[6]
• The passport is undamaged and in your possession ^[2]
• You can provide a digital passport photo that meets specifications (e.g., JPEG format, 600x600 pixels, plain white background) ^[2]
• You are applying for a routine service (not expedited) and can pay fees online via credit/debit card or ACH ^[2]

The online renewal process involves these steps:

1. Confirm eligibility: Answer questions on the MyTravelGov portal to verify you qualify ^[6].
2. Create an account: Provide an email address and secure password to save your progress ^[2].
3. Enter passport details: Input information from your current passport, including the 9-digit number on the data page ^[2].
4. Upload a digital photo: The system provides real-time feedback to ensure compliance with photo requirements (e.g., no shadows, neutral expression) ^[2].
5. Pay fees: As of 2024, online renewal fees are $130 for a passport book (same as mail-in renewals) ^[2].
6. Submit and track: Receive a confirmation email with a tracking number. Processing times average 6–8 weeks for routine service ^[2].

Limitations of online renewal:

• Expedited processing is not available online; you must mail Form DS-82 with a $60 expedite fee for faster service (2–3 weeks) ^[2][7].
• Name changes require additional documentation (e.g., marriage certificate) and may disqualify you from online renewal ^[2].
• Lost or stolen passports cannot be renewed online; you must report the incident and apply in person using Form DS-11 ^[5][8].

For those ineligible for online renewal, the mail-in process (Form DS-82) remains an option, though it requires printing and mailing physical documents ^[5]. Third-party services like GOV+ offer assistance with form completion and expedited shipping but do not replace the official government process ^[9].