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Acceptable Proof of Identity for Passport Applications

Used passport 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

Social Security Cards serves as seconday proof of identification. 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:

Have known you for at least 2 years
Be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident
Have valid ID
Fill out Form DS-71: Affidavit of Identifying Witness in the presence of a Passport Agent

Top 5 Questions About Expedited Passport Couriers

1. How can you get a passport when you're in a hurry?
2. What exactly does a passport expediter do?
3. Are passport expediting services legitimate?
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Get answers to these questions and more in our Ultimate U.S. Traveler's Guide to Passport Expediters.

You can also visit our library of articles about passport expediting.

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