US citizens can now apply for their passport online

The US State Department has launched online passport renewal for eligible citizens. The service is only available to individuals over 25 residing in the US with passports expiring after 2019 or within the next year. Applicants must previously have held a passport for over five years. Online renewal excludes first-time passport applications, those living abroad, individuals under 25, or those changing their name or gender. The State Department plans to expand eligibility in the future based on the success of the initial program. The online application process eliminates the need for mailing documents and allows for potential cash or credit card payments. The move is part of efforts to reduce passport waiting times and improve efficiency.