The State Department has begun enforcing rules that prevent non-profit organizations, including many public libraries, from serving as passport acceptance facilities. The change, which began in late 2025 and continued into early 2026, limits in-person passport services mainly to government-run locations such as post offices and local government offices.
The move has reduced options in some communities that previously relied on library-based passport acceptance, particularly in rural areas.
At the same time, the State Department has expanded a secure online passport renewal system for eligible citizens. The online option allows some travelers to renew without mailing in documents.
Processing times have also improved compared to earlier backlogs. As of late 2023, routine passport applications were taking about six to eight weeks, while expedited processing took about two to three weeks.
The agency continues issuing “Next Generation” passports, which feature enhanced security measures such as polycarbonate data pages and laser engraving.
There have also been reports of changes involving applications requesting an “X” gender marker, as the agency reviews or adjusts policies under new leadership.
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