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Picture this: you’re all set to embark on an exciting journey, but as you reach for your passport, you realize it’s already expired.
The thought of missing out on your travel plans can be overwhelming, and you may be left wondering if traveling with an expired passport is even an option.
To make matters worse, passport processing times have been a little long recently. However, there’s no need to panic.
In this article, we’ll outline essential information on traveling with an expired passport, passport renewal procedures, and ways to expedite the renewal process in case you’re running out of time before your scheduled trip.
Can you travel with an expired passport?
If you’re traveling internationally, the short answer is no, you cannot use an expired passport. You must renew your passport if it’s expired or will expire within the next six months.
On the other hand, domestic travel is a bit more complicated. Although a passport is not required for domestic flights, you need a valid ID to pass through TSA checkpoints, and an expired passport is not considered valid.
If you only have an expired passport, you can still bring it along for domestic travel within the United States, but you must convince TSA officers that you are who you say you are. However, if you’re traveling internationally, you must have a valid passport.
If you can’t renew your passport in time, rescheduling your trip may be necessary, although expedited passport renewal services such as RushMyPassport may help.
As of July 1st 2022, in an update to policies implemented during the COVID-19 pandemic, U.S. citizens will not be able to use an expired passport to the United States.
The Department of State advises anyone traveling on an expired passport to contact the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate to apply for a U.S. passport.
Can you travel to Mexico or Canada on an expired passport?
If you’re planning a trip to Canada, Mexico, or the Caribbean, you’ll need to be aware of the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI), which requires U.S. citizens to carry a valid passport book for air travel to any of these destinations. However, the rules are more flexible for land and sea travel.
For travelers over 16 years old, any of the following documents are acceptable:
- A valid passport book.
- A valid passport card.
- An enhanced driver’s license (currently offered in only a select few states).
- A Trusted Traveler card (NEXUS, SENTRI, or FAST cards).
Children under 16 can use a birth certificate or other proof of citizenship, and children under 19 can do the same if they’re traveling with a school, church, or youth group.
It’s important to note that an expired passport is not considered a valid ID under the WHTI. Although you may not be required to present a valid passport to enter Canada or Mexico by land or sea, you will need it when you return to the U.S. If you try to cross the border with an expired passport, Customs, and Border Patrol officers may require additional verification of your identity and citizenship before allowing you back into the country.
For more, see Do You Need a Passport to Go to Mexico? and Do You Need a Passport to Go to Canada?
Can you go on a cruise with an expired passport?
If you’re planning a cruise, you may be wondering if you can go on it with an expired passport. The answer depends on the type of cruise you’re taking.
If you’re on a closed-loop cruise that starts and ends at the same U.S. port, you may be able to use a driver’s license and a birth certificate instead of a valid passport or passport card. However, it’s important to check with your cruise line and the countries you’ll be visiting to make sure you have the necessary documents.
Even if you don’t need a passport for your specific cruise, it’s always a good idea to have a valid passport with you. If you have an emergency or you need to leave the ship at a foreign port, a passport can make it easier to get help or return to the U.S. Plus, if you miss your ship or need to fly back to the U.S. for any reason, you’ll need a valid passport to do so.
What happens if you try to travel with an expired passport?
At the Airport
For international flights: If you are traveling internationally, attempting to board your flight with an expired passport will not be possible. Even if you are permitted on the plane, you will likely be turned away upon arrival. It is not worth the risk, so renew your passport before you travel.
For domestic flights: For domestic flights, bring an alternate form of valid, government-issued photo identification to the TSA checkpoint. If an expired passport is the only ID you have, bring additional documents that can confirm your identity.
Driving to Canada or Mexico
When driving to Canada or Mexico, allow extra time for crossing the border, and keep in mind that the other country may refuse entry due to improper documentation. Upon re-entry into the United States, expect to be temporarily detained while your identity and citizenship are confirmed.
Although an expired passport might be useful in this situation, it’s best to avoid the hassle altogether and obtain a new passport or passport card to comply with the law.
Passport Validity Requirements
Did you know that many countries require you to have at least 6 months left before the expiration date on your passport in order to enter? If your passport is expiring in the next year, check our list of passport validity requirements for top destinations to see if you need to renew before traveling.
What is the Six-Month Validity Rule?
The six-month validity rule for passports is a requirement by many countries that a traveler’s passport has at least six months left before it expires, in order to be allowed entry into the country.
This means that if a passport is set to expire within six months of the traveler’s arrival in a foreign country, the traveler may be turned away.
The rule of thumb for international travelers is to always have at least 6-months validity on their passports to avoid complications during their trip or in the event of an emergency that potentially extends their stay.
How to Renew Your Passport
If your passport has expired and you need a renewal, you’re eligible to renew your passport using application Form DS-82 as long as all of the following conditions apply:
- Your current passport has not been lost, stolen, or damaged.
- Your current passport was issued after your 16th birthday.
- Your current passport was issued no more than 15 years ago.
- Your current passport was issued in your current legal name, or you have legal proof of your name change.
Required Documents for Passport Renewal
If you’re planning to renew your passport, the process is straightforward and requires a few essential documents.
To ensure a smooth passport application, it’s important to have the necessary paperwork ready in advance.You’ll need the following documents to renew a U.S. passport
- DS-82 Passport Application
- Passport Photo
- Expired or Expiring U.S. Passport
- Government Fees
- Proof of Name Change (if applicable)
- Travel Itinerary (applicable if expediting)
Where To Apply For A Passport Renewal
If you are eligible to renew your passport, you have several options for where to apply, with specific service times depending on your situation.
No matter which option you choose, make sure to plan ahead and allow sufficient time for processing.
Applying for a Passport Renewal at a Passport Acceptance Facility
If you have international travel planned but not in the near future, you can simply apply for standard routine passport services at a United States Post Office or another Passport Acceptance Facility, such as a library or a county clerk’s office.
Although the standard processing time for passport renewal can take up to 8 weeks from the date of application, the actual processing time can vary depending on the current workload of the passport office.
If you need to receive your renewed passport sooner, you can request expedited processing for an additional fee of $60, not including shipping or the required application fees. This will trim down the processing time to an estimated 2-3 weeks.
It’s important to keep in mind that these processing times are estimations that start from the date the Department of State receives your application, not from the date you submit it.
Applying for a Passport Renewal at a Regional Passport Agency
In case of urgent travel plans within 14 days, you have the option to schedule an appointment with a Regional Passport Agency for expedited passport processing within 3 business days.
While this may seem like the best option, there are some limitations. Only 26 Regional Passport Agencies in the entire country offer this service, and there are strict requirements for eligibility.
According to the U.S. Department of State, to be eligible for an emergency passport appointment, you must either:
- Have urgent international travel within 14 calendar days or need a foreign visa within 28 calendar days
- Life-or-Death emergencies if you need to travel internationally in 3 business days because your immediate family member outside of the United States
To schedule an in-person appointment, you must call 1-877-487-2778.
Renewing Your Passport with a Private Expediting Company
If waiting for the post office is not an option and you can’t or prefer not to go to the nearest regional passport agency, you might want to try a passport expediting company.
Private expediting companies such as RushMyPassport can hand-carry your application documents to the Department of State for processing, cutting down on the time it takes to receive your passport, in as little as 7 business days.
Expedited Passport Services with RushMyPassport
If you need a passport quickly, but don’t have the time or patience to go to a passport agency or post office, RushMyPassport can help.
With services ranging from new passports, passport renewals, child passports, or replacing a lost or stolen passport, our team of registered couriers and passport advisors will help get your passport fast!
Click to get started today or visit a FedEx Office location near you to find out why RushMyPassport is the most convenient way to get a passport in a hurry!
Hi I have 2 passports. One expires in October 2022. I thought I lost the second one that expires in October 2027. I submitted a passport renewal application to the State Dept. in April 2022. They sent me a letter in July asking to send the first passport back or the new one will only be valid for 2 years. I replied with a letter stating I was not able to locate my first passport and to please extend my new passport for 10 years. Then they sent me another letter with a lost and stolen passport form to fill out, a new passport application form, and asking for new photo IDs. I just found my old passport that expires in October 2027. Can I still travel internationally with it? Even though I did not officially fill out the lost/stolen form or call them regarding it. I tried to call them and ask if it is valid and tried to get TSA at the airport but no one is able to help. I do not want to try and book an international flight and have issues at the airport. Thanks!
If you didn’t submit a DS-64, then your passport should still be valid. However, we can’t possibly advise on this, you would need to contact the Department of State, or simply apply for a new passport.
Im traveling to Tijuana, Mexico from California by car due to a family emergency. Can I enter back to the US with an expired passport card and a valid drivers license?
Good afternoon! First, we are so sorry about the family emergency. We hope all will be well. In regards to gaining entry into Mexico, you will be turned away at the border, if you are driving into Mexico, as all US citizens must show proof of citizenship in the form of a passport to enter a foreign country. Unless you have an Enhanced Drivers License, you will not be allowed entry. A valid drivers license and an expired passport card will not be sufficient.
I have expired passport and I need to go home for good I only have state ID and I’m planning to fly to my country would I be able to board the plane? Basically I’m deporting myself would it work?
Hi, my I’m from africa, I attend a college in the USA. My passport expired already but can i fly within the USA without my passport? And the only ID I have is my school’s ID
It will ultimately be up to the airline to decide on your ID requirements. We recommend contacting your embassy or consulate as they can provide you with a passport renewal. You will need this either way in order to stay in the country and also when you return home.
Hi, my daughter is in Africa (Gambia) with my mother but she is a US citizen. She is quite sick at the moment, she has sickle cell and I want her back immediately. However we realised that her passport expired and it’s going to take a couple of weeks to apply for a new one. Can she be allowed back to the US with the expired passport. She is 6 years old.
She will need to visit the embassy or consulate immediately. They will provide an updated passport for travel back to the US.
Hi I am a Tanzanian citizen living in Mexico, my passport is expired, but i have an emergency travel document, i want to go to USA to renew my passport, its the only place we have a Tanzanian embassy near, it is possible for me to travel?
You should contact your nearest embassy by phone or email as only they can advise you. I don’t think you can travel to the US though. They may have your go through another consulate or embassy in Mexico.
I have an expired passport no state ID but I’m traveling from ohio to california would I be fine since im staying in the country?
Ultimately it will be up to the TSA and the airline. You should get a state ID or renew your passport to avoid any travel delays.
Hi, I’m a citizen of Chile and my passport will expire before my flight. Would I be allowed to travel out of the States with an expired Chilean passport? I know I can enter Chile with that expired passport as I also have the Chilean ID (that is not expired)
We can’t speak to the situation of flying out of the US on an expired passport. You should contact the nearest Chilean embassy or consulate.
My passport expires 9-30-19 and we are travelling for a week overseas in Jan. 2019. Shoud I renew before, or is that too far ahead of expiration date?
It depends how long you will be overseas. However, we recommend renewing early as your passport is valid for 10 years and it will need to be done either way. You will also have less stress if another trip comes up and you need to get your passport in a tighter timeframe. We also offer passport renewal options of varying service speeds.
Im in saudi arabia now and my passport will expired on september 4,2018 this year. So i need to travel before the expiration of my passport right? Because i already resign to my work here. So i need to go back to the Philippines before my passport will expired right?
Yes, you will need to get your passport renewed, usually six months before it is even expired if you are planning to travel overseas during that time. Visit your nearest embassy or consulate for assistance if you are still abroad.
Hey, I’m traveling from California to Louisiana with my school, so I have a school ID and I have an expired passport from 2008 I turned 18 recently, so I don’t have a California ID. Will I be okay to fly domestically?
Hi Lizzy, You shoulf be fine, but bring both your expired passport and your school ID and make sure you extra time for identity verification.
I Am An American Citizen And I Was Wondering If I Could Travel To Mexico With My Expired Passaport?
No, you need to get it renewed first.
I am in Germany and my passport has expired, how can I travel back to the US. Passport office is not assisting me here because I have been unemployed.. you have to be employed for them to re-new it here? What are my options?
If you’re a US citizen contact the US Embassy.
my passport is expired but I have valid visa. can I travel to Pakistan???
Not without a passport.
Am I able to travel within Mexico by using an expired passport, valid U.S. I.D. and a copy of my birth certificate?
My plans are to cross into Tijuana, Mexico by car and take a bus from there to Chichuahua whete I will then board a train and then continue travel throughout Mexico by bus and at one point Ferry.
If I were to take any flights, it would be within Mexico itself.
I plan to travel for a month.
I currently travel monthly by car to Baja with my expired passport and have had no issue.
Mexican law requires you to carry a passport if you’re beyond the border zone. Just get a valid passport or a passport card.
Hi,
I’m a citizen of South Korea and my passport expired in November. Would I be allowed to travel out of the States with an expired Korean passport? and enter Korea?
Hi James,
No, you need to go to the South Korean Embassy.
Hi..is it possible to travel vacation back to the phillipines but my passport expire next month?
Possibly, Marichu. It depends on what country you’re from. For Americans, your passport just needs to be valid when you enter.
Hi
my question is if i can go back to Dominican Republic with an expired passport to renew it there instead?
Hi Rivero,
No, you wouldn’t be allowed to fly. If you’re a citizen of the Dominican Republic, contact the nearest embassy or consulate for help.
My daughter’s US passport expires at the end of September. However, at the beginning of September, I plan to bring her from the US (where she is vacationing), back to Côte d’Ivoire (our home, where she is also a citizen and holds a passport). Will she be allowed to leave the US with only a few weeks left on her passport?
She can leave, she’ll just need to renew at the nearest embassy or consulate to get back into the US. If she’s under 16 you’ll need the consent of both parents to get a new US passport so it might be simpler just to renew it before you go.
My sons US passport expires March 16. We originally got it expedited for a 1 year passport at the us embassy in the Philippines, where he was born. We live in china now and we are returning to the US for a vacation February 9. Do i need to renew his passport before we leave Shanghai? I was hoping to get it renewed as soon as we return to the US.
Hi Jennifer, You should be fine as long as you’re back in the US before it expires. 🙂
Hi my daughter it 12 and her passport expired this year.We were wanting to go Chicago on wed. and are in Mississippi. Can she still get on the plane with the expired passport or what can i bring or do to get her on the plane
Sure, she doesn’t need a photo ID as she is under 18 and traveling within the US.
Can a us citizen travel from Dominican republic to florida with expired passport? my uncle is in DR retired and needs to come to usa medical reasons. he relized his passport is expired.
Hi Dolly, No, but he can contact the nearest US Embassy for a renewal.
Hi Victor,
Looks like you need to get a state ID card at least, just to have something that’s not expired. You can find a list of acceptable forms of ID here: http://www.amtrak.com/passenger-identification
Hey Alison, seems like you reply pretty quick to posts here although there haven’t been any for a few months.
I’m planning to travel by train (Amtrak specifically) from California to Minnesota.
From what I read on here, and from what I kinda understand but to make sure, would it be possible to travel with an expired passport along with my birth certificate? Most posts here are international situations mine isn’t, and mine is by train rather than plane, still I want to make sure.
I also have an expired driver’s permit, and my high school ID even though I graduated last year. I’m 19.
Hi Maria,
You need a valid passport for ALL international flights, including flights back to the US from another country. Contact the nearest US Embassy ASAP to get your passport renewed.
Good luck!
Hi Isabel,
It’s unlikely that you’ll be allowed to fly with an expired Argentine passport. However, if you are also a US citizen and have a valid US passport, you can use that to leave the US (and actually, you are required to do so).
If you aren’t a dual citizen and just have the expired Argentinian passport, contact the Embassy of Argentina for help: http://www.embassyofargentina.us/espanol/home/home.htm
Can I depart the USA with an expired argentine passport? In Argentina I was told I can enter with expired passport but I am unsure if they will let me fly from USA
MY PASSPORT WILL EXPIRED IN 2 WEEKS CAN I STILL FLY BACK??? AND IF I BOOKED A FLY 5 DAYS PASSED MY EXPIRATION DATE CAN THE EMBACY HELPED BY GIVING ME AN EXTENCION
Hi Juan,
If she drives across (which I’m assuming is how she’s traveling), then she may be temporarily detained at the border while they verify her citizenship. But, as long as she’s an American citizen they can’t keep her out. Hope this helps!
Hi
my sister just went to mexico, with an expire passport, she is a resident in California, has a driver licence, university id, and works,
will she be able to come back to US??
Judy, I’m so sorry about your father. If you haven’t already, you need to contact the US Embassy immediately to get an emergency passport or an emergency travel document issued for your daughter. Good luck!
We are all us citizens
I am stationed in Germany with us army. I just received a red cross message that I need to return to Florida for my fathers illness. My daughters passport has expired and my flight leaves tomorrow. Can I get into the states with birth certificates and her expired passport?
Hi Vanessa,
Yes, since you’ll be traveling by land and staying within the border zone. Have a great trip!
cont. for last comment . . .
We are traveling within the border zone to Rosarito, MX.
My son (14 yr) has an expired passport and is traveling by land to Mexico from California. Can he cross with his birth certificate?
What happens if my passport expires while I’m in Mexico?
Hi Bill,
You’ll need to get it renewed at the nearest US embassy. Good luck!
Hello , We are traveling to Canada in the am by car, A passenger passport has exspired two months ago. Can we still use it to cross and come back?, and what other things can we do or use to help submit that she is a US citizen to help further our luck in this problem.
Hi Matthew,
You can cross into Canada with just a birth certificate, but you may be up for extra scrutiny and delays re-entering the US. They’ll have to let her in eventually, but how long it takes and how much of a pain it is to cross back over are up to the individual officers. Good luck!
Hi, my 16 year old brother is visiting me from Mexico. I live in North Dakota. He is traveling from Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco to Tijuana, BC. I know that they dont need a passport to travel within Mexico. But when he crosses the border to fly from San Diego to Williston, ND, will he need a passport? His passport expired last month and he hasnt renewed it because he’s been in Mexico for the past 3 years. And he doesnt have any form of ID except for his Birth Certificate. I think that the only form of ID is a forgeign one. Please Help! thank you!
Hi Iris,
US citizens returning from Mexico by land need one of the following: a passport, a passport card, an “enhanced” driver’s license with a special chip in it or a trusted-traveler card (like NEXUS, FAST or SENTRI). Tell him to contact the nearest US embassy and get his passport renewed.
Hi there,
I’m traveling at the end of the month to Las Vegas, the ticket booked under my maiden name through flier miles. My passport is the only ID I have with my maiden name on it, but I just realized it may be expired, like a month expired. Could I still travel with it if I bring my license with my photo as well?
Hi Kerri,
I would contact the airline and see what they recommend. They may want additional documents like a marriage certificate, or they be able to fix it for you. Good luck!
I need to go to Jamaica in the AM and just discovered that my US passport has expired. Can I still try to use and then renew it at the embassy in Jamaica?
Hi Charmaine,
No, it’s highly unlikely that the airline will even let you board the the plane with an expired passport. Sorry!
Hi,
I want to travel from Nashville to San Francisco in two days.
My sons passport is expired. I am german and have a permanent resident card. He has a german valid passport. Will he be able to travel with it? Or can the US military give him an ID card for travelling?
Hi Johanna,
Nashville to San Francisco is within the US. He shouldn’t need anything but photo ID if he’s over 16. Have a great trip!
I would like to know if I could fly domestically with a foreign international driver license. My passport has expired and I cannot get a new one unless I go to my country’ nearest consulate wich is in NYC or DC.
I have no state issued ID. I live in California.
Thank you.
Hi Alain,
That’s not on the list of TSA-accepted documents: http://www.tsa.gov/travelers/airtravel/acceptable_documents.shtm You should bring it, though, along with any other documents you have that could be used to establish your identity. Also, give yourself lots of time to get through security. See the link for more details. Good luck!
My daughter is 8 and her passport just expired, we are leaving for Aruba tomorrow to visit friends for 5 days. I have her birth certificate and her social security card. I spoke to someone at the airline and they told me to go to the airport and the tsa would make a decision. what do you think?
I’m sorry, but they probably won’t let her fly. Best of luck to you, though!
Hi I’m driving to the border for dental stuff and my U.S. passport expired nov 2011. Can I return back with expired passport as long as I show my birth certificate and driver license? I’m only going to Mexican border town.
Hi Erendira,
You should be able to get back across but you may be hassled a bit since you’re supposed to have a valid passport or a passport card. They could potentially keep for you a little bit while they verify that the documents you have are valid.
I’d recommend getting a passport card at least before you go. Coming back with a sore mouth, you’re going to want the border crossing to be as smooth as possible!
Hello,
I am going to renew my US passport, I still have six months for expiration. Do I loose these six months, or they will be added to the actual expiration date. and I get two years and six month?
Hi Altoon,
You lose those six months, unfortunately. Your new passport should be good for 10 years. However, lots of countries won’t let you in if your passport expires in the next six months, so I would strongly advise you to go ahead and renew it anyway.
Hope this helps!
Alison
i have a green card , and i wanna go back to jordan to visit
but my Jordanian expired since 2009 , so, its gonna be there any problem ??
Hi Palkeiy,
You’ll need to get in touch with the Jordanian Embassy to get a new Jordanian passport before you can travel. You can’t travel out of the country if it’s expired. Good luck!
my passport expired ( i am a US citizen) and my dad wants me to fly out to Wisconsin next week. i live in Michigan. can i still travel only with my school ID? because i am 14 years old, turning 15 in October. is it okay?
Hi Abigail,
Per the TSA, children under 18 aren’t required to show ID. You should be fine. Have a great trip!
I has a expired passport and i was born in florida and in 2 weeks im going to chicago can i still go even if my passport is expired??
Hi Stephanie,
Of course, you don’t need a passport to take a domestic flight. Just bring a valid ID with you (like a driver’s license). Now, that’s assuming that you are currently in the US- if you’re overseas you need to contact the nearest US embassy to renew your passport before you go.
Hope this helps!
hi
i live in the us and i came to germany with my travel document and now my travel document has got expired i want to know if i can go back to the us with a expired travel document and im only 16 years old.
Hi Alen,
No, but if you’re a US citizen all you have to do is look up the nearest US embassy and they should be able to help you get a new one. At least one of your parents will need to accompany you, or if they aren’t in the country they’ll need to fill out and notarize a permission form allowing another adult to accompany you. Good luck!
Hi
What type of documents do i need to re enter the US if i heve an expired passport?
Hi Digna,
Contact the nearest US Embassy and they should be able to help you renew it. Good luck!
My son has a suspended license and an expired passport. Can he use his expired passport for identification for a flight home from Florida to New York state in December?
Hi Lisa,
Yes, but…since it’s expired, he may be in for extra questioning and he should bring as many other documents verifying his identity as possible. From the TSA website:
“Passengers who do not have a valid photo ID, such as State-issued driver’s license, should bring any ID or documents they have available to assist in verification of identity. Passengers need at least two alternate forms of identification, such as a social security card, birth certificate, marriage license, or credit card. The documents must bear the name of the passenger. Also, one of these documents must bear identification information containing one of the following: date of birth, gender, address, or photo. If TSA can confirm the passenger’s identity, they may enter the secured area, but they could be subject to additional screening.”
Hi,
My daughter’s US passport has expired and we plan to use her UK one next week to travel to the US with us. I am assuming this will be OK so long as she goes through ESTA.
Thanks
Hi Paul, Actually all US citizens are required to enter and leave the US on their US passports. Talk to the nearest US Embassy-they may be able to issue an emergency passport for her. Good luck!
Hi,
I have an expired Russian passport and a valid US green card. I applied for a new Russian passport while I was in Russia, but I had to come back to the US so the passport is waiting for me in Russia while I am in the states. I have two questions. First, I want to fly to Mexico for vacation, is there any way to do that without having to get a new Russian passport through the Russian Embassy in the US? (which by the way requires an in person interview) Second, will I be able to fly into Russia to get my newly issued Russian passport? I really appreciate your help.
Hi Darya,
This is from US Citizenship and Immigration Services: “In general, you will need to present a passport from your country of citizenship or your refugee travel document to travel to a foreign country. In addition, the foreign country may have additional entry/exit requirements (such as a visa). For information on foreign entry and exit requirements, see the Department of State’s webpage at http://www.travel.state.gov.”
So, yes, I’m so sorry, but you will need to get a Russian passport here, at the Embassy, before you travel.
Hi. i had a quick question.. my fathers passport expired a couple months ago, and he needs to travel to mexico for a couple of days in a family emergency. His sister just passed away.& he is a U.S. citizen.. he is also traveling by land not flying..should he bring his CA id and passport..what kind of problems could he be facing at the border?
Hi Nancyyy,
First of all, let me say that I’m so sorry for your loss. Per the US Department of State, “Since March 1, 2010, all U.S. citizens – including children – have been required to present a valid passport or passport card for travel beyond the “border zone” into the interior of Mexico. The “border zone” is generally defined as an area within 20 to 30 kilometers of the border with the U.S., depending on the location. ”
So, as long as he’s traveling by land and isn’t going beyond the “border zone,” he should be fine with his ID, passport, and I would also have him bring his birth certificate or naturalization certificate. He may be detained for a little while on his way back in to the country while US Customs verifies that he is a citizen, so he should allow extra time to get back home. If he will be driving beyond the “border zone,” I would contact the Mexican Embassy and see if they can help.
Can I use my expired passport to board the plane if it is a domestic flight. i have no ids or anything? would i need birth certificate?
Hi Carmen,
From the TSA website: “Not having an ID, does not necessarily mean a passenger won’t be allowed to fly. If passengers are willing to provide additional information, we have other means of substantiating someone’s identity, like using publicly available databases.
Passengers who are cleared through this process may be subject to additional screening. Passengers whose identity cannot be verified by TSA may not be allowed to enter the screening checkpoint or onto an airplane.”
Bring your expired passport, birth certificate and any other IDs you have, and allow extra time at the airport for the additional screening.
Hello,
My friend and I are traveling to Miami for spring break. I am a US citizen but my friend is an international student from Saudi Arabia. He recently just got his Michigan’s drvers license cut and his passport for KSA is expired. What can we bring to show identification for him?
Hi, I have a U.S. Passport that expires January 8, 2012. My dad is in
very poor health and wants me to visit him in the Philipines this
weekend. He is in the philippines receiving medical care. Doctors told
my mom he might only have a few weeks. I really need to go visit him but
i heard that there is a regulation that states passport must be 6 months
valid in order to fly internationally. Is there anyway I could get a
waiver or accommodation so i can visit my dad before its too late.
Please let me know as soon as possible. I appreciate your help.
Thank you very much,
Junior Saico
Hi Junior,
I’m so sorry to hear about your dad, and I completely understand how important it is to get there as soon as possible. That said, the Philippines is one of the countries that requires you to have six months left on your passport, unfortunately. I don’t know if waivers can be granted or not, but contact the Embassy of the Philippines to see if it’s possible: http://www.philippineembassy-usa.org/
To get your passport renewed before you leave, you can also contact the nearest regional passport agency by calling 1-877-487-2778 for an appointment or call us to expedite: 1-877-503-9838.
Hello
i am currently in mexico on vacation with my friend and she has an expired passport.. will she be having problems coming back to u.s? we have no idea what to do at this poin
Hi Chris,
Whether or not she’ll be able to get back depends on whether she’s driving or flying. If she’s flying, she has to have a valid passport or they won’t let her on the plane. If she’s driving across, she may be detained while Customs verifies her citizenship, but they can’t actually keep her out of the country.
Either way, why don’t you just take her to the nearest US Embassy? They can issue a renewal, and then she won’t have to worry about it at all.
Hi,
I’d like to expedite a passport to ease my trip to Canada in a week.
We’re going by car and do not have an itinerary beyond a hotel
confirmation. Will that suffice to get expedited service?
Hi Mark,
Yes, that will work. 🙂
Hi, I am an American citizen living in Mexico. My passport expired and I
really need to go to the US soon, problem is renewal takes up to six weeks.
does any one know if i need it to fly?
I don’t want to drive thru Mexico due to the violence.
Hi Ray,
Yes, you need it to fly. They won’t let you on the plane without it. Good luck!
Hi,
I was looking to go to Canada for the weekend in two weeks for two nights but I just realized my passport just expired in June. Will I be able to use my expired passport to get there and back. Do you think they would accept it if I brought the expired passport along with a birth certificate and driver’s license? It’s too short of notice to get a new passport.
Thanks
Hi Ryan,
Are you driving or flying? If you’re driving, you should be able to cross with your birth certificate and driver’s license, but may experience delays getting back into the US since you’re supposed to have a valid passport or passport card. If you’re flying, on the other hand, there’s no way -the airline probably won’t even let you board the plane. Sorry…wish I had better news for you!
Hi..my name is Alejandro and I’m 16 years old
i have a B1 visa but i would like to change it.My passport expired a few
years ago. what can i do?
Hi Alejandro,
Sorry, we can’t help you with immigration-related requests. We are only able to help US citizens apply for a passport. Good luck!
hi, my girlfriend has an expired passport since june, she want to travel from Va to las vegas and doe not have a satate I’d. Can she still travel with her exprired passport?
Hi Denis,
It would be best if she got a state ID first. If she can’t, it might help to bring her expired passport as proof of identity, but she will still have to go through extra screening and an interview with the TSA. She needs to get to the airport EARLY. See here for more details: http://www.tsa.gov/travelers/airtravel/acceptable_documents.shtm
can i travel with expire passport and copy of naturalization from usa to canada. plus my 13yr old son have expire passport with copy of birth certificate can he travel with me.
Hi Pash,
I’d need a little bit more information about where you’re traveling to answer that, I’m afraid. You generally need to be able to present a valid form of identification; a certificate of naturalization will work in some circumstances but for others it won’t be enough and you’ll need an unexpired passport. Can you tell me a little bit more about your travel plans?
Can I return to The US with my US passport expiered or does really mean my Citizenship also has expiered and I can not come home.
Hi Oscar,
Your citizenship never expires! But you’ll need to get a new passport before you try to fly home- just go to the nearest US Embassy or consulate and they can help.
im 16 yrs old ,and i live in santo domingo and my passport is expired
and i need to travel to florida in 2 weeks!!!
could i renew my passport in florida? instead of here
because the appointment are to long…..
Hi Deliz,
The only problem is that they probably won’t let you on the plane without a valid passport. The US Embassy website for the Dominican Republic has instructions on how to get an emergency appointment here: http://santodomingo.usembassy.gov/eapp-07-08.html Hope this helps!
hi hi i had a question. so my plane ticket is booked in a week and my girlfriend was planning to travel with me from san diego to hawaii. shes 18 but her only form of ID is her highschool junior ID 2010-2011. can we still get her tickets? could she show her debit card and possibly a paycheck to show that she is who she really is.
Hi,
She should still be able to fly but get to the airport early. She will have to go through secondary screening possibly including interviews, a more-thorough-than-usual search, etc. See the TSA website for details: http://www.tsa.gov/travelers/airtravel/acceptable_documents.shtm
Im traveling by bus from new jersey to North carolina i dont really have a type of Id except my passport but it expire already on november 5 2010 can i use it as a form of id to board the bus or will i have to renew it?
You shouldn’t need a valid passport to travel within the US, but I would call the bus company and make sure they’ll accept it as ID.
hi,
i organize a school trip from san diego to chicago in two weeks and one of my student have a expired passport. Does he need a new passport?do i need a paper from the parents?
thanks
Hi Simon,
You’re traveling domestically, so he shouldn’t need a passport to board the plane. Hope this helps!
we need to travel from LA to NY in june and i just realized passport of my 13 years old son is expired. can he stil travel with it? can he use a school ID?
thanks for your help
Hi Fabian,
Since the flight is domestic, a passport is not required. Per the TSA, kids under 18 don’t need ID to fly: http://www.tsa.gov/travelers/customer/editorial_1029.shtm
You should be good to go!
Also very important, if so, do i have to book a direct flight or is a stopover ok?
Hi,
My situation is a bit complicated. I’m currently in Schengen
and my passport was stolen, so I got an emergency replacement one.
If it expires while I’m still over here, will I still be able to get back
into the states? I think I remember them saying that because it’s
an emergency replacement I can only get it renewed in the states.
Thanks!
-Harrison
Hi Harrison,
You’ll need to contact the nearest US Embassy and ask for their help. You’re exceedingly unlikely to be able to get on a plane to the US without a valid passport or a special travel document. The US Embassy should be able to get you taken care of.
Good luck!
This is a very informative blog, keep up the great work;
good information is hard to find.
My girlfriend is Russian and is going back to Russia in a few days.
She has a domestic flight before her international flight. She just
realized that her passport expired last month. She doesn’t have any US
issued ID, but she has a credit card, Russian birth certificate, and
Russian passport that is still valid.
Will she be able to fly? She’s just trying to make it home, she won’t
be coming back to the States.
Hi Ryan,
As long as she has a valid passport she should be fine!
My younger brother is planning to fly to Hawaii from California. He has no recent photo identification. His passport is expired, and that is the only form of identification he has. It has been expired for six years and he doesn’t look the same as his photo id. Is there any other form of identification I can use. He is only 13. Can I bring in a birth certificate with his recent yearbook picture.
Hi Huna,
It’s a domestic flight and he’s under 18, so he should be fine. Photo ID is only required if you’re 18 and older. Just have him bring his birth certificate.
how long can my USA passport be valid
In most cases, it’s valid for 10 years if it was issued after you turned 16. Passports issued to minors, however, are only valid for 5.
Hi Alison,
My 14 year old son will be traveling with adult friends to Mexico. His passport expires a month AFTER he returns to the US. Will there be a problem with Mexico that I should rush service of a new passport? He’s leaving in 2 weeks. I know I need to send along with him a notarized letter saying it’s okay for him to be traveling with them.
Hi Julie,
Nope, he should be fine. Some countries require that your passport be valid for at least 6 months after you enter, but Mexico isn’t one of them.
I do not have a drivers License. I do though have an expired passport can I get by on that flying from northern california to southern california?
Hi Katie,
In theory, a passport is proof of identity even after it’s expired. But get to the airport extra early, as you may face additional screening from the TSA: http://www.tsa.gov/travelers/airtravel/acceptable_documents.shtm
Hi there,
I have an 2 passports, 1 expired and 1 valid. My US visa is still
valid on my expired passport. Will I be able to get in US with both
passports instead of renewing it?
Cheers,
Alfred
Hi Alfred,
Contact the US Embassy and ask.
Thanks, and good luck!
I’m a New Zealand citizen with a passport that expires July 4 2011, I am in the process of applying for a new passport, am currently in Costa Rica and wish to visit the US for approx 3 weeks on Feb 21 before leaving again around March 16 to travel to South America. Will I be able to enter the Us with a passport that has less than 6 months on if for the three week duration. I plan to have my new passport delivered to an address in the US.
I would very much appreciate clarification.
.
Hi Barb,
From everything I was able to find online, you should be okay…but just to be safe, I’d call the US Embassy in San Jose. Find their contact info here: http://sanjose.usembassy.gov/conseng.html
Hi I’m not a us citizen but j do have a green card my passport is expire will I be able to travel from Texas to Florida with out it or with it expired
Hi Marien,
As long as your staying within the US, you should be fine with just your green card.
Hi..Im in the Dominican Republic and my passport expired, can I still leave the Dominican Rep. to go back to the US with an expired US passport??
Thanks
Hi Ace,
No, you won’t be allowed on the plane. Stop by the nearest US embassy and they can renew it for you.
We are in Brazil and my son’s lasanhas expires. Can he flu into the US with an expired passport and his birth certificate?
Thanks
No, he should get a new passport at the nearest US Embassy before attempting to fly home.
My son is 6 and his US passport expired in Aug. 2010.
Now we’re leaving for cruise from Miami to Mexico
and back to Miami.
The cruise departs on Dec. 20 while the earliest date
to apply at Regional Office is Dec. 20!!
Is it still ok to travel?
Will he be detained at port of entry or will his
birth-certificate suffice?
Hi Vahass,
You’re on a cruise, so he should be fine with just his birth certificate. Enjoy your trip!
Hello My passport expired on october 2010 and i was planning to travel to Sonora Mexico by car (land). Will I be able to travel with my expired passport and come back (texas)or will i need to apply for a new one? The thing is that I think i would nos be able to get it on time since it take 4 to 6 week to get it. Do i have any options? thank you
Hi Aisha,
No, you’ll need to renew your passport. To get into Mexico and back by land, you need a passport, passport card, or an enhanced driver’s license, which Texas does not offer. Expedited service from the Department of State costs $60 and takes 2-3 weeks. If you’re leaving in the next 14 days, you can apply at a Regional Passport Agency office (the only ones on Texas are in Dallas or Houston) or we can help. Give us a call @ 1-866-682-1505 if you have any additional questions.
i leave monday for las vegas my license was stolen, i have a passport but its expired can i still travel
Hi Myisha,
You should be okay since its a domestic flight, but PLEASE call the airline first to verify.
Hello, my passport expired in August of this year and I will be flying to Miami from NYC in October using my ID. The thing is, my friends are taking a day cruise to the Bahamas and Im wondering if I will be able to take the trip using my ID as well. Please help
As long as the cruise begins and ends in Miami, you should be fine- but bring a valid driver’s license and a certified copy of your birth certificate.
Hi, I’m going to get a driver’s license tomorrow in TX, but my passport expired just yesterday, do you think they will accept it?
Hi Ashlyn,
Good question…the best thing to do would be to call the local DMV and ask.
Good luck!
My son who is 10. His passport expired last year. I am in Michigan and we are travraveling by car to Falls, Canada… and i cant find his birth certificate either. Will it cause any problem at the border???
Hi Ash,
Yes, possibly. He needs either a valid passport or a copy of his birth certificate. If you still live close to where he was born, contact your local Department of Vital Records (Contact information here: http://www.cdc.gov/nchs/w2w.htm ), otherwise you can order a copy from Vitalcheck: http://www.vitalchek.com/
I would call the US Embassy-They should be able to advise you and help you renew your passport.
June 23, 2010.
My son who is 13. his passport just expired June 19th 2010. I am from Florida and we are planning to go to canada. I have his birth certificate. Will they give my problem to travel
Hi Linh,
It depends on how you’re traveling. If you’re driving across the border, you should be fine with his birth certificate. If you are flying to Canada, you’ve got to get a passport ASAP or they won’t let him on the plane.
Hi,
I lost my passport and found it again. i am flying tomorrow. can i take the paspport I found to the airport? i cant rebook my flight.
Hi Rashy,
It depends. If you’ve reported it lost to the Department of State already, then no, you can’t use it. Once you report it to the Department of State, they cancel it and won’t let you travel on it.
I am a Spanish Citizen, and am currently living in the US. I want to travel back to Spain. can I visit Spain with an expired passport if I get it renewed while I am in Spain?
You should probably get your passport renewed at a Spanish embassy here before you leave, Krystal. There’s a good chance your airline won’t let you board the flight to Spain without one.
Both of my children were born in Rota, Spain while I was in the military. I did not renew their passports which expired over five years ago. I do not have their original birth certificates because they were lost during our move. I was not married so neither of their fathers names appears on the original birth of certificate abroad. Can I get an expedited passport using their old passports?
Hi Gail,
According to the US Department of State, you should be able to use your children’s old passports as proof of citizenship as long as they are undamaged and in good condition. However, if your kids are still under 16, you will need either permission from their fathers OR proof that you have sole custody. See this page for acceptable documents:
http://travel.state.gov/passport/get/minors/minors_834.html
Hi, my wife is a registered alien with an expired passport. Just received notice that her Mom died back home in Philippines. What’s the quickest possible way to get her on a flight there?
Hi Shame,
I’m sorry to hear about your loss! We only expedite US passports, so I would recommend contacting the nearest Philippine Embassy or Consulate. There’s a list here:
http://www.philippineembassy-usa.org/
Good luck!
Can you get back into the US, land travel, from Canada on a expired US passport, birth certificate, and Driver’s License?
Well, they can’t really keep you out of the country if you are a US citizen. However, if you don’t renew your passport you should expect delays trying to cross back in to the US because what you are describing does not meet the legal requirements to re-enter the US from Canada. So, you may be detained for a period of time while they verify that your documents are authentic and you are really a US citizen. I would recommend renewing your passport or at least getting a passport card.
can you still travel within the US with only an expired passport and no driver’s license or things have changed due to the current situation
So… What is the answer Pete? What happened? Does anyone know? If my wife crosses over by auto into Mexico for a medical proceedure and she has an expired passport, what will be her issues, if any, coming back? Anyone know? It’s a little vague. No flight involved. drives across from California. She has Arizona drivers license.
What is going to happen at LAX when my mother arrives from Mexico City with a passport that has been expired since June 09? This was an oversight – no legal issues, just a mistake. She has been in Mexico for 6 days only. She is a naturalized citizen. California resident for 55 years.
Please advise.
Your blog is so informative ?keep up the good work!!!!
Yes
My husband lost his drivers license and is flying tomorrow morning to another state. Could he use jis expired passport to fly?
Can i travel to Hawaii from LAX with a expired passport and
birth certificate i dont have any form of id i called the airline
they said its fine but but just double checking
Hi Chris,
Hawaii is part of the US-since you’re not traveling internationally, you don’t need a passport. However, you still need to show the airline some form of ID to claim your ticket. It doesn’t have to be a passport-it can be your driver’s license or a state ID card. If your airline has verified that they will accept what you have, you should be fine.
Hi Nancy,
If you’re traveling in the United States, your driver’s license or other state-issued ID will be fine, and you don’t need a valid passport.
Can i travel from Florida to New York with an expired passport?
Can i travel to Florida with an expired passport?