USA Passport Types

The United States issues three major types of passports: Regular, Official, and Diplomatic. Each serves a unique purpose and is available only to individuals meeting specific eligibility criteria. Understanding these distinctions is critical for ensuring compliance with U.S. Department of State regulations and for facilitating smooth international travel.

Regular Passport

Issued to all U.S. citizens for personal travel.
Available as Passport Book or Passport Card.
Used for tourism, study, business, and family visits.

Official Passport

Issued to U.S. government employees for official duties.
Not valid for personal travel.
Eligibility requires nomination by a government agency.

Diplomatic Passport

Issued to diplomats, ambassadors, and eligible dependents.
Provides diplomatic privileges and immunity.
Used solely for diplomatic missions and assignments.

Eligibility Criteria for USA Passport Types

The eligibility for each passport type differs significantly, reflecting the intended purpose of travel and the applicant's professional role.

Regular Passport Eligibility

All U.S. citizens are eligible for a Regular Passport. Applicants must provide proof of citizenship, identity, and support documents. The age and previous passport history may influence the application form (DS-11 for first-time applicants, DS-82 for renewals).

Proof of U.S. citizenship (birth certificate, naturalization certificate).
Government-issued photo identification.
Parental consent for minors under 16.
Payment of applicable fees.

Official Passport Eligibility

Official Passports are reserved for U.S. government personnel traveling on official duty. Eligibility is strictly controlled, and requests are submitted through the relevant government agency to the Department of State.

Active U.S. government employee with travel assignment.
Endorsement by employing agency.
Limited to official duties; personal travel requires Regular Passport.

Diplomatic Passport Eligibility

Diplomatic Passports are granted to diplomats, ambassadors, high-ranking officials, and their dependents for official diplomatic assignments. Applicants must be nominated by the Department of State.

Appointment as a U.S. diplomat or ambassador.
Eligible dependent family members accompanying the official.
Purpose limited to diplomatic missions; personal trips require Regular Passport.

Proper documentation and verification by the Department of State is mandatory for both Official and Diplomatic passports. First-time applicants should carefully review eligibility guidelines to prevent application rejection or delays. For detailed guidance, refer to the official passport application portal.

USA Passport Application Process

The process differs for first-time applicants, renewals, minors, and emergency cases. Following the correct steps ensures smooth processing.

Complete the correct application form (DS-11 for new applicants, DS-82 for renewals).
Gather required documents (proof of citizenship, ID, photos, parental consent if applicable).
Schedule an appointment at an acceptance facility or passport agency.
Submit your application in person (first-time applicants) or by mail (eligible renewals).
Pay the applicable fees.

Tip: Apply 6–8 weeks before planned travel to avoid delays.

USA Passport Fees

Fees vary based on passport type, processing speed, and applicant age.

Passport Type	Adult (16+)	Child (under 16)	Expedited Processing
Regular Passport Book	$130	$100	+$60
Passport Card	$30	$15	+$60
Official/Diplomatic	Varies (Government-issued)	Varies (Government-issued)	Varies

Fees are non-refundable once submitted, even if the application is denied.

Passport Photo Requirements

2x2 inch (51x51 mm) color photo with white or off-white background.
Face directly facing the camera, neutral expression, eyes open.
No hats, sunglasses, or other accessories covering the face.
Recent photo (within the last 6 months).
Children: Eyes open; avoid red-eye or shadows.

Validity and Renewal

Adult passports are valid for 10 years; minors under 16 get 5 years.
Renewals can be done by mail (Form DS-82) if eligible.
Lost or damaged passports must be replaced in person using Form DS-11.
Expedited service is available for urgent travel.

Travel Tips for USA Passport Holders

Always carry a photocopy of your passport separately from the original.
Check visa requirements of your destination before traveling.
Register with the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) for safety updates abroad.
Ensure your passport has at least 6 months validity remaining for most countries.
Use a secure passport holder to prevent damage or theft.

Emergency & Lost Passport Guidance

Lost/stolen passports should be reported immediately using Form DS-64.
Emergency passports can be issued at U.S. embassies or consulates for urgent travel.
Keep emergency contact numbers of local U.S. embassies while traveling abroad.
Replacement passport may take several days; plan accordingly.

Additional Services

Expedited services for urgent travel needs.
Passport card for land/sea travel to Canada, Mexico, and Caribbean countries.
Global entry & trusted traveler programs.
Notarization and authentication of passport documents.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

The Regular Passport is designed for personal travel, study, and business. Booklets allow international travel by air, sea, or land, while cards are limited to nearby countries.

No, Official Passports are strictly for government duty travel. Personal trips require a Regular Passport.

Report immediately to the U.S. Department of State via this official portal and submit Form DS-64 along with Form DS-11 for replacement.

Eligible citizens may renew by mail using Form DS-82. First-time applicants or lost/damaged passport holders must apply in person using Form DS-11.