Acceptable Proof of Identity for Passport Applications
Submitting acceptable proof of identity is one of the requirements when
applying for a passport. There are both primary and secondary proofs of
identity that you can submit. Both are listed below. Note, you also
have to present a photocopy of the identification document that you
submit.
Primary Proof of Identity
You can present any of the following documents as primary
evidence of identification. Documents that are considered to be primary
proof of identification stand alone and do not require the presentation
of multiple documents. That is not the case with secondary evidence. If
possible, presenting this type of proof makes the application process
much easier.
- In-state, valid driver's license (not temporary or learner's permit)
- Fully-valid, undamaged U.S. passport book or passport card (with recognizable photo, can be expired)
- Certificate of Naturalization (with recognizable photo)
- Certificate of Citizenship (with recognizable photo)
- Government employee ID (city, county, state, or federal)
- U.S. military or military dependent ID
- Current (valid) foreign passport
- Matricula Consular (Mexican Consular ID) - commonly used by a parent of a U.S. citizen child applicant
- Permanent resident card (Green Card) - commonly used by a parent of a U.S. citizen child applicant
If you apply at a Passport Application Acceptance Facility
and submit an out-of-state primary identification, you also have to
present an additional ID document. For example, if you apply in Arizona
with a Texas Driver's License, you must present an additional ID.
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Secondary Proof of Identity
If you are unable to present primary proof of identification,
you must submit a combination of secondary identification documents. The
information below will help you determine what documents to submit as
secondary identification. Each application is handled on a case-by-case
basis.
- State-issued non-driver ID
- Out-of-state driver's license
- Social Security card
- Learner's or temporary driver's permit
- Voter registration card
- Employee ID
- Student ID
- Selective Service (draft) card
- Medicare or other health card
- Expired driver's license
- Membership card in a local social organization or club
- Rental contracts
- Mortgage documents
- Auto registrations
- Traffic tickets & violations
- An Identifying Witness (someone who can swear to your identity) that is present at the time of your application. He or she must:
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