Can you travel with an expired passport?
While a valid U.S. passport isn’t required for domestic travel, it is required for international travel. So if your passport has expired, you likely won’t be able to go abroad or reenter the U.S.
Also, keep in mind that your destination country may have additional passport-related requirements. For example, some countries require that your passport be valid for 6 months after your travel dates.
What you’ll learn:
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A valid passport is required to travel abroad and to reenter the U.S.
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For domestic travel, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) may accept an expired passport for up to two years after expiration.
- For a fee, you may be able to get a new passport or passport renewal expedited.
How long is a passport valid?
A passport’s validity depends on the holder’s age: 10 years for people 16 and over, and five years for those 15 and under.
Wherever you’re headed, it’s important to check requirements before you travel. For example, some countries require that your passport be valid for at least 6 months beyond your travel dates. And some require a visa for entry in addition to a valid passport. For country-specific information, the State Department’s destination guide might help.
Can you travel domestically with an expired passport?
If you’re traveling within the U.S., you can use a valid passport as ID to board flights. If your passport is expired, the TSA says you can use it for domestic travel for up to two years past the expiration date.
When traveling in the U.S. with an expired passport, you may want to bring another valid form of ID to board your flight. Options include:
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A state-issued REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or identification card. To determine whether your ID is compliant with REAL ID, you can check with your state’s department of motor vehicles
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State-issued Enhanced Driver’s License or Enhanced Identification Card
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Department of Homeland Security Trusted Traveler Program (TTP) cards, including Global Entry, NEXUS and SENTRI
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Permanent resident card
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Border crossing card
Approved documents are subject to change, so consider checking the TSA’s acceptable IDs before your departure.
Can you travel internationally with an expired passport?
According to U.S. Customs and Border Protection, a valid passport is required if you’re traveling internationally.
How do you renew your passport quickly?
In routine situations, the State Department says it takes about 4-6 weeks to renew a passport. That doesn’t include mailing, which could add another two weeks to the timeline.
If you need a passport more quickly, the State Department can expedite the process for an additional $60 fee. Here are some options:
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Expedited renewal: If you’re traveling in less than 6 weeks, you could get expedited service at a passport acceptance facility or by mail. Expedited service takes 2-3 weeks and does not include mailing.
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Urgent renewal: If you’re traveling internationally within 2-3 weeks, you could get an expedited renewal by scheduling an in-person appointment at a passport agency or center.
- Life-or-death emergency: If you need to travel internationally because a family member has died or is critically ill, you can provide documentation during an in-person appointment to get an expedited passport.
Can you travel with an expired passport FAQ
Still have questions about traveling with an expired passport? These answers may help.
Can you travel to Mexico or Canada with an expired passport?
No, all U.S. citizens entering Mexico and Canada must present a current passport. This applies whether you’re driving or flying.
Is there a grace period on expired passports?
You don’t have to rush to renew your passport the moment it runs out. If you got it within the past 15 years, the State Department says you can renew it by mail. Passports are good for 10 years, so that five-year window is like a little grace period.
But keep in mind that the State Department recommends getting a new passport 6-9 months before your current one expires.
Will TSA accept an expired passport?
Yes, an expired passport is accepted as ID up to a year after expiration. Just remember that in most cases, you won’t be able to enter other countries or return to the U.S. without a valid passport.
Key takeaways: Can you travel with an expired passport?
Keeping your passport up to date is likely your best option for trips in the U.S. and abroad. Domestic travel could be more difficult with an expired passport, and international travel could be impossible.
If you’re a frequent traveler, Capital One travel credit cards can be a helpful part of planning and traveling. You could earn unlimited miles with every purchase. And if you’re a Venture X or Venture cardholder, you could receive a $120 statement credit when you use the card to pay your Global Entry or TSA PreCheck® application fee.
