WASHINGTON - Getting and renewing your passport might get just a little bit easier, according to Secretary of State Marco Rubio.

On July 2, Rubio said the State Department is developing a more streamlined system that would allow Americans to more easily take and upload passport photos using their phones or computers.

Americans can already upload passport photos taken from their phones and computers; however, they must meet the Department of State's strict requirements. Rubio said the new system will use real-time, built-in facial recognition technology to make the process even quicker.

In addition to easing the process of taking and submitting passport photos from home, Rubio outlined plans to allow passport applicants to complete nearly the entire process online.

“Now, beyond that, I would say that we are also looking at some technological changes, which we’ll be more fully able to announce over the coming months, where it’s going to be a lot easier to get a passport in terms of the dynamics of it. You’ll actually be able to go online,” Rubio said. (Source: USA Today)

Story Date: July 9, 2026