Last updated April 2026
U.S. Passport: Your Essential Travel Document and Proof of Citizenship
To travel internationally, you must have a valid passport. U.S. Passports are government-issued forms of identification that verify both your identity and citizenship and allow you to enter other countries and re-enter the U.S. As the most widely recognized travel document in the world, a U.S. passport is essential for anyone planning international travel. You can obtain either a U.S. passport book or card, each with different uses and benefits. However, it’s important to understand their limitations: the passport card is only valid for travel between the U.S. and Canada, Bermuda, Mexico, and the Caribbean, and only by land or sea. Air travel and travel to other countries requires a passport book.
Types of U.S. Passports Available
Passport Book
The traditional passport book is a small booklet that contains biographical information, your photograph, passport number, and visa pages. It is valid for international travel to all countries by air, sea, or land. Most travelers prefer the passport book because of its universal acceptance and broader travel capabilities.
Passport Card
The passport card is a wallet-sized document that is only valid for land or sea travel to specific neighboring countries and territories. While it’s more convenient to carry and costs less than a passport book, it’s significantly limited in scope and cannot be used for air travel or travel to most destinations.
How to Apply for a New U.S. Passport
You must visit a passport-issuing facility in person and apply directly if any of the following apply to you:
- This will be your first U.S. passport
- You need to change the name on your passport
- Your most recent passport was issued when you were under 16 years old
- Your current passport is more than 15 years old
- Your passport was damaged or lost
- You are currently residing outside the U.S. (apply at the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate)
When you apply in person, you must provide:
- A completed Form DS-11 (or DS-82/DS-64 depending on your situation)
- Proof of U.S. citizenship (U.S. birth certificate, naturalization certificate, or passport card)
- Proof of identity (driver’s license, state-issued ID card, or military ID)
- An approved passport photo (4×6 inches, white background, taken within 6 months)
- Payment for the processing fees (currently $110-$130 for adults)
- If you have changed your name, proof of a legal name change (marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order)
How to Renew a U.S. Passport
If you meet all of these requirements, you can apply by mail to renew your passport, which is more convenient and often faster than in-person applications:
- Your current passport was issued when you were 16 or older
- Your current passport was issued within the last 15 years
- You have your current passport in your possession
- You do not need to change the name on your passport
- Your current passport is not significantly damaged
For mail renewal, you’ll typically submit your completed renewal application, current passport, new photo, and payment by mail. Processing times are usually faster for renewals than new applications.
U.S. Passport Costs
Passport Books:
- Adults (age 16+): $135 for new application, $110 for renewal
- Minors (under 16): $105
Passport Cards:
- Adults (age 16+): $55 for new application, $30 for renewal
- Minors (under 16): $40
Additional fees may apply for expedited processing (additional $60) or execution fees ($35) at acceptance facilities. It’s worth noting that passport photos have specific requirements and must be taken by an approved provider to ensure acceptance.
Passport Processing Times
Standard processing typically takes 4-6 weeks, while expedited processing takes 2-3 weeks. However, during peak travel seasons (summer and around holidays), processing times can extend to 8-12 weeks or longer. If you plan to travel internationally and need a new passport or renewal, it’s crucial to apply early and give yourself plenty of extra time to receive your passport before your departure date. Applying at least 3 months before your planned travel is recommended.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is a U.S. passport valid?
U.S. passports are valid for 10 years for adults (age 16 and older) and 5 years for children under 16. Some countries require your passport to have at least 6 months validity remaining before entry, so check requirements before traveling.
What if my passport was lost or stolen?
If your passport is lost or stolen, you must report it immediately to the Passport Services office and apply for a replacement in person using Form DS-11. You should also file a police report if it was stolen.
Can I travel with an expired passport?
No, you cannot travel internationally with an expired U.S. passport. It must be valid for the entire duration of your trip and preferably have at least 6 months validity remaining.
Do I need a passport to travel to Mexico or Canada?
For air travel to Canada, Mexico, or the Caribbean, you need a valid passport book. For land or sea travel to these countries, you can use either a passport book or a passport card, though a passport is still required.
What information is needed for a passport application?
You’ll need personal identification information, a birth certificate or proof of citizenship, a valid photo ID, an approved passport photo, and payment for fees. Have all these items ready before visiting a passport acceptance facility.