To apply for a passport card, you need proof of U.S. citizenship such as a certified birth certificate or a previous U.S. passport. You must also provide valid identification, including a driver's license or government-issued ID card. Supporting documents like a passport photo and the completed application form DS-11 are required for submission.
What Documents are Needed to Apply for a Passport Card?
| Number | Name | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Proof of U.S. Citizenship (e.g., Birth Certificate, Naturalization Certificate, Consular Report of Birth Abroad, Certificate of Citizenship) | Proof of U.S. citizenship is essential to apply for a passport card, including documents such as a certified U.S. birth certificate, a naturalization certificate, a Consular Report of Birth Abroad (CRBA), or a Certificate of Citizenship. These primary citizenship documents must be original or certified copies issued by the relevant government authority to verify eligibility. |
| 2 | Proof of Identity (e.g., Valid Driver’s License, Current Government Employee ID, Military ID) | Proof of identity is crucial when applying for a passport card and must include valid documents such as a current driver's license, a government employee identification card, or a military ID. These official documents verify your identity and citizenship, ensuring compliance with passport card application requirements. |
| 3 | Photocopy of Identity Document (front and back) | A photocopy of both the front and back of a valid identity document, such as a government-issued ID or driver's license, is required when applying for a passport card to verify your identity and residency. Ensure that the copies are clear, legible, and submitted in the required format to avoid processing delays. |
| 4 | Passport Application Form DS-11 or DS-82 | Submit a completed Passport Application Form DS-11 if applying for a passport card for the first time, or Form DS-82 when renewing an existing passport. Both forms require proof of U.S. citizenship, a valid photo ID, a recent color passport photo, and applicable fees for processing. |
| 5 | Color Passport Photo (2x2 inches, recent) | A recent color passport photo measuring 2x2 inches is required to apply for a Passport Card, ensuring the image clearly displays your full face against a plain white or off-white background. This photo must meet U.S. Department of State standards to avoid processing delays in your application. |
| 6 | Parental Consent Documents (for minors under 16) | Parental consent for minors under 16 applying for a passport card requires the submission of a completed Form DS-3053, notarized consent from the non-applying parent or legal guardian, along with the applying parent's valid identification. When both parents are unavailable, court orders or guardianship documentation must be provided to verify legal consent. |
| 7 | Name Change Document (if applicable; e.g., Marriage Certificate, Court Order) | To apply for a passport card, applicants must provide a name change document if their current name differs from the one on their primary identification, such as a certified marriage certificate or an official court order. These documents ensure the legal validation of the updated name, which is necessary to accurately process the passport card application. |
| 8 | Payment for Applicable Fees | To apply for a passport card, applicants must submit payment for applicable fees, which vary depending on age and service type, typically by check or money order. Acceptable payment forms include personal checks, certified checks, or credit/debit cards when applying in person at authorized acceptance facilities. |
Introduction to Passport Card Application
Applying for a passport card requires specific identification documents to verify your identity and citizenship. Knowing the necessary paperwork can streamline the application process effectively.
- Proof of U.S. Citizenship - Submit an original or certified birth certificate, naturalization certificate, or previous U.S. passport.
- Valid Identification - Present a state-issued driver's license, government ID, or military ID to confirm your identity.
- Passport Photo - Provide one recent color photograph that meets the passport photo requirements.
Importance of Identity Verification
Applying for a passport card requires providing specific documents to verify your identity accurately. Identity verification is crucial to ensure the security and authenticity of the passport card issuance process.
- Proof of U.S. Citizenship - Documents like a birth certificate or naturalization certificate confirm your nationality.
- Valid Photo Identification - A government-issued ID such as a driver's license establishes your identity.
- Passport Photo - A recent color photograph meeting passport standards is necessary for visual identification.
Submitting accurate and verified documents protects your identity and upholds border security standards.
Primary Identification Documents
When applying for a passport card, primary identification documents are essential to verify your identity and citizenship. These documents must be original or certified copies issued by government authorities.
Acceptable primary identification documents include a valid U.S. passport, a certified birth certificate, or a naturalization certificate. Presenting these ensures your application process proceeds smoothly and meets the Department of State requirements.
Secondary Supporting Documents
Secondary supporting documents are required to verify your identity and citizenship when applying for a passport card. These documents may include a government-issued driver's license, a state ID card, or a previous U.S. passport. Submitting these documents alongside primary identification ensures the application process moves smoothly and confirms the applicant's eligibility.
Proof of Citizenship Requirements
| Document Type | Description | Examples |
|---|---|---|
| Proof of U.S. Citizenship | Essential document to establish U.S. citizenship status when applying for a passport card. |
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| Certified Birth Certificate | Must be issued by the city, county, or state vital records office with a registrar's signature and seal. |
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| Previous U.S. Passport | A valid or expired passport can be submitted as proof of citizenship instead of a birth certificate. |
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| Naturalization or Citizenship Certificate | Documents issued by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services confirming citizenship status. |
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Acceptable Photo Identification
What documents are needed to apply for a passport card? Acceptable photo identification includes a valid U.S. passport book, a previously issued passport card, or a state-issued driver's license with a photo. You must present one of these to verify your identity when submitting your application.
Address Verification Documents
To apply for a Passport Card, providing proof of your current address is essential. Address verification documents confirm your residence and help ensure accurate processing of your application.
- Utility Bill - A recent utility bill with your name and address serves as valid proof of residence.
- Bank Statement - A bank statement dated within the last three months displaying your name and home address can be used.
- Lease Agreement - A current lease or rental agreement signed by both parties includes your verified address information.
Special Requirements for Minors
To apply for a passport card, applicants must provide proof of U.S. citizenship, a valid photo identification, and a completed application form. Minors under 16 years old require both parents or guardians to appear in person with evidence of the relationship, such as a birth certificate. Consent forms and parental identification are mandatory to ensure compliance with child protection regulations during the application process.
Documentation for Name Changes
To apply for a passport card, you must provide proof of identity and citizenship. If your name has changed, submit legal documents that verify this change.
Acceptable documents include a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. Ensure these documents are original or certified copies to avoid application delays.
What Documents are Needed to Apply for a Passport Card? Infographic
