My membership was to expire in August but now since I renewed it's good to Aug of 2022. The application was specified as a renewal and my prior info was all pre-filled when I went through it so it was quick. I have not yet received my new card but the approval letter said they'd be mailing one to me. They'll just use my old photo...similar to renewing a drivers license in some states (such as WA) where you can renew online every other renewal.

I think your mistake was waiting until it expired. Next time, renew just after your birth date in the year prior to expiration..that way you'll get nearly 6 years of membership instead of 5. No guarantees they won't require an interview.. they just didn't in my case.