How to Obtain a Second U.S. Passport

While it's not commonly known, it is indeed possible to hold two U.S. passports. However, this option is not available to everyone and is generally reserved for specific circumstances.

A second U.S. passport can be issued if:

• Your current passport has stamps that might lead to entry denial in certain countries (e.g., an Israeli stamp in some nations).
• You have multiple upcoming international trips that require visas, which will keep your current passport unavailable for a period.
• You can demonstrate that your job necessitates frequent travel. Professions like flight attendants, pilots, and journalists covering international stories typically qualify for a second passport.

There are two methods for applying for a second passport, depending on your specific situation. Here’s what you’ll need for each case.

To obtain a second passport, submit your existing passport along with your application.

Follow this procedure if your application is based on the first reason mentioned, and you do not require your current passport for international travel during the processing period of your second passport.

Required items for application

• Two new passport photos that differ from those in your original passport
• Your current passport
• A completed DS-82 passport form (the same form used for renewals)
• $130 application fee. If expedited, add $60, plus another $19.53 for one- or two-day shipping. Note that credit or debit cards are not accepted for these payments; acceptable payment methods include personal, certified, or cashier's checks, or money orders made out to "U.S. Department of State." Please ensure all fees are combined into one check or money order.)
• A letter outlining the necessity for a second passport. A sample can be found on this page under the second section.
  
• Documentation supporting your need for a second passport (e.g., copies of flight itineraries or stamps in your current passport that may cause issues)

Apply for a second passport if you are unable to send your current one.

Opt for this process if you meet the criteria outlined in the second or third reasons above. This option is ideal if your passport is currently in transit for visa applications or if you have frequent international travel that prevents you from parting with your passport long enough to mail it. It’s also suitable if you qualify under the first reason but have multiple upcoming international trips.

Necessary items for your application

• Two passport photos that are noticeably different from those in your original passport
• Your original birth certificate or another document proving citizenship, such as a consular report of birth abroad or a certificate of naturalization (this must be submitted with your application)
• A completed DS-11 passport form (the same form required for first-time applicants or those whose last passport expired over 15 years ago)
• An appointment at a passport acceptance facility, typically found at post offices, but sometimes available at certain court clerks’ offices or libraries. You can locate one here and schedule an appointment here.
• $130 application fee. Add $60 for expedited processing and another $19.53 for one- or two-day shipping. (Payments cannot be made with credit or debit cards; acceptable methods include personal, certified, or cashier's checks, or money orders made out to "U.S. Department of State." Combine all fees into one payment.)
• A $35 processing fee at the acceptance facility, which can be paid via credit or debit card, or with a money order or personal check made out to "Postmaster".
• A letter clearly stating the reason you require a second passport, with a sample available on this page under the second section.
• Evidence supporting your need for a second passport (e.g., copies of flight itineraries or any problematic passport stamps)
• Another form of government-issued identification, such as a driver's license, to confirm your identity when submitting the application.

Guidelines for obtaining and utilizing a second passport

Similar to the typical passport renewal process, travelers may apply for a second passport at an appointment-only passport agency, though securing an appointment can be challenging since it must be done over the phone. This option is available only if you need expedited service, such as same-day processing. Additionally, you’ll need another form of government-issued ID, like a driver’s license, for identity verification during your appointment.

Keep in mind that obtaining a second passport is not guaranteed; your application might be rejected. If this occurs, the fees paid are non-refundable, so ensure you provide adequate documentation to support your request. If granted, the second passport will be valid for four years, compared to the standard ten years of a regular passport. It will also have a different number than your primary passport and cannot be renewed.

If your primary passport is linked to Global Entry, you can update it to connect with your second passport via your Trusted Traveler account. Log in and go to the "Update Documents" section to swap out your primary passport details for your secondary ones. Note that if you later travel using your primary passport, you’ll need to revert the information back. To keep both passports in your account, you must visit a Global Entry enrollment center for assistance.