WHRO Passport Frequently Asked Questions

What is WHRO Passport?

WHRO Passport is a member benefit that provides eligible members with early and extended access to an on-demand library of quality public television programming. Featuring both PBS and selected local programs, WHRO Passport allows members to watch even more episodes of the favorite PBS shows, including full seasons of many current and past series.

Who is eligible for WHRO Passport?

WHRO Passport benefit is available to members with a yearly contribution of at least $60 or an ongoing monthly contribution of $5 or more.

How can I activate my WHRO Passport account?

If you are an active WHRO member giving at least $60 (or $5 monthly), and we have a valid email address on file, you can look up your account and your activation code will be emailed to the email address on file. You can create an account with PBS.org, or sign in with your existing Facebook or Google account.

If we don't have a valid email address on file, you can call us at 757-889-9310 or email us at passport@whro.org.

I just made a donation today, why can't I activate WHRO Passport?

If you donated online or over the phone at the $60 level (or $5 monthly), you will receive an activation email with the subject line "Your WHRO Passport is Ready to be activated!" at the email address you entered when making your donation. Follow the instructions in the email to activate your account and start streaming your favorite shows.

I'm seeing a message that says I already activated, but I can't remember how to sign in.

You can visit WHRO's Passport sign in page to sign in with your Facebook, Google, or PBS.org account.

I am a member of another PBS station. Am I entitled to WHRO Passport?

WHRO Passport is only available to donating members of WHRO. However, many PBS stations across the country are introducing this new benefit to their members. Please contact your local station to find out if they are offering this service and to activate.

What kind of device do I need to view WHRO Passport videos?

Currently, WHRO Passport content is available on the following devices and platforms:

  • Desktop computers and laptops using the latest versions of Chrome, Firefox, Safari, and Microsoft Edge on WHRO.org and PBS.org Web sites
  • iOS devices (iPhone and iPad)
  • Android smartphones and tablets
  • Apple TV
  • Roku
  • Chromecast
  • Amazon Fire TV and Fire Stick
  • Android Smart TVs
  • Samsung Smart TV (2017 models and newer)
  • VIZIO SmartCast TV

If you need help with WHRO Passport activation on your device, please visit PBS.org knowledge base for step-by-step instructions.

Can I view WHRO Passport videos outside of the United States?

Due to rights restrictions, our streaming videos can only be viewed within the United States.

Is WHRO Passport a service or subscription that people can purchase?

It is an added benefit of station membership. It cannot be purchased separately and is not a subscription service.

What kind of content can I find on WHRO Passport?

WHRO Passport includes 1,600+ binge-worthy episodes of the favorite PBS and WHRO shows, including full seasons of many current and past series, representing many genres, including drama, science, history, natural history and the arts. Explore the best of Passport now.

If I do not have WHRO Passport, will I still be able to watch shows on WHRO.org and PBS.org?

All broadcast content remains available to all viewers on air per our broadcast schedule and will available for at least two weeks and, in some cases, longer. We believe the new arrangement allows for ample viewing of excellent content, albeit for a more limited time for some programs. PBS and WHRO content will continue to be available for free on the WHRO.org website, and other digital platforms. WHRO Passport provides extended access to a rich library of content for WHRO members to enjoy. Certain content, including news and public affairs programs will be accessible to everyone.

I'm not seeing my favorite PBS show in WHRO Passport. Why not?

Unfortunately, PBS is not always able to obtain the streaming rights for every program which has aired on WHRO. This can include entire shows, specific seasons, or specific episodes of a program. While Passport does allow us to offer more content for online streaming, we are unable to offer every program for online streaming indefinitely due to the aforementioned streaming rights.

For some programs we do offer clips and previews as these are not as restricted as the full episodes and may be of interest to some users.

I cannot afford to donate at this time. Is there a way for me to view this content?

All broadcast content remains available to all viewers on air per our broadcast schedule and will remain online and on mobile and OTT platforms for at least two weeks and, in some cases, longer.


Didn't find your answer here? Email us at passport@whro.org or call 757-889-9310.

More FAQs are available at PBS.org