When you are applying for an expedited passport, it’s crucial to make sure that you have all of the correct documents with your application. Otherwise, you probably won’t get your passport on time. To apply for a passport, you need proof of identity and proof of citizenship. Most people use their driver’s license as proof of identity, but what if you don’t have one?
Here’s a list of other documents that can be used as primary identification to apply for an expedited passport:
An old passport, as long as it has not been damaged.
A copy of your naturalization certificate, if you are a naturalized citizen.
A current government-issued ID. This ID may be issued by your city, your state or the federal government.
A current military ID, if applicable.
What if you don’t have any of the documents listed above? That’s where it gets tricky: you’ll need to submit secondary identification instead of primary identification. Secondary identification comes in two flavors: a collection of documents that show you are who you claim to be and an identifying witness.
Bring as many documents as you can round up that prove you are who you say you are. Examples include but are not limited to: your social security card, credit cards, library cards, employee ID cards, student ID cards, yearbooks with your name and picture, insurance cards, professional licenses, union cards, degrees and diplomas and utility bills.
If possible, you should also bring an identifying witness who can vouch for you. The identifying witness must come with you when you apply for the passport, and must be a US citizen or legal permanent resident with photo identification. You can’t have just anyone vouch for you: the person must have known you for at least 2 years. He or she must fill out an affidavit testifying to your identity.
Passports are issued at the discretion of the Department of State, so if they aren’t satisfied they may request more information before sending you your passport. All the more reason to send in as much documentation as possible!
Alison Kroulek is a freelance writer and blogger with a focus on the travel industry.