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.

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:
  • 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

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  About the Author: For over 20 years, the U.S. Passport Service Guide team has helped hundreds of thousands of travelers with their travel document questions and shared advice about how to make traveling abroad simpler, safer, and more enjoyable.