Apply for a Second U.S. Passport Book
A second U.S. passport book is an additional passport book issued to an eligible traveler who already has a valid U.S. passport book and can demonstrate a qualifying travel-related need. It allows the traveler to have two valid passport books at the same time.
Your current passport stays valid — the second book is an additional document.
Government fees$130 government application fee, mail or in person; in person there is also a separate $35 acceptance fee paid directly to the acceptance facility. Optional expedited service adds the State Department's $60 expedite fee plus $26.87 for 1–3 day return delivery of a passport book ($86.87 together).
A second passport book has a different passport number and is generally valid for four years or less. It is not a passport card or a replacement for the traveler’s current passport.
Adults and children may qualify for a second passport book if they already have a valid U.S. passport book and can demonstrate an eligible travel-related need. Applicants under age 18 must also follow the government requirements that apply to their age.
Applying requires the appropriate passport form, a signed statement explaining why the additional book is needed, and any supporting documents required for the applicant’s situation. The U.S. Department of State reviews each request and makes the final decision.
US Passport Assist helps determine the appropriate application process, prepare the form and statement, organize the supporting materials, and provide clear submission instructions.
When Do You Need a Second Passport Book?
You may qualify for a second passport book if:
- A country may deny you a visa or entry because your current passport contains stamps or visas from certain destinations
- You travel internationally frequently and need to apply for multiple foreign visas on an ongoing basis
- An embassy or consulate is holding your current passport for visa processing and cannot return it before your next trip
- You need special passport validation to travel to a restricted destination or area
- You need to protect a valid visa from being canceled
- You have a special or emergency travel situation that requires an official passport note—called an endorsement—to be added or changed
Having frequent travel plans alone does not automatically guarantee eligibility. You must explain why one passport book cannot meet your specific travel needs, and the U.S. Department of State reviews each request individually.
What Do You Need for a Second Passport Book?
The appropriate form and supporting requirements depend on the applicant’s age, the passport they currently hold, and whether that passport can be submitted.
All applicants will generally need:
- The appropriate passport application form
- Their current valid U.S. passport book, if it is available
- A signed statement explaining why a second passport book is needed and listing the destinations and approximate dates of travel
- One printed passport photo that meets government requirements
- Applicable government fees
- Any additional documents required for their circumstances
Applicants under age 16 must apply in person using Form DS-11 and meet the applicable parental-consent requirements.
Applicants age 16 or 17 may be eligible to apply by mail using Form DS-82 if their current passport was issued when they were age 16 or older, was valid for 10 years, can be submitted, and meets the other renewal requirements. Otherwise, they must apply in person using Form DS-11.
Adult applicants may use Form DS-82 if they can submit an eligible 10-year passport. Applicants who cannot submit an eligible passport generally apply in person using Form DS-11.
Applicants using Form DS-11 will also need the citizenship evidence, photo identification, photocopies, and any parental documentation required for their situation.
US Passport Assist reviews the applicant’s circumstances, helps identify the appropriate form, prepares the application and signed statement, and provides a personalized checklist and submission instructions.
How the Second Passport Book Process Works
- Provide your information
Complete our online questionnaire and explain why you need an additional passport book.
- We determine the appropriate application process
We review the applicant’s age, current passport, and circumstances to determine whether the application generally requires Form DS-82 or Form DS-11. For applicants under 18, we also identify the applicable parental requirements.
- We prepare and review your application
US Passport Assist prepares the appropriate form, helps organize the signed statement and supporting documents, and reviews the application information and passport photo.
- We send your prepared package to you
You receive an organized application package with a personalized checklist and clear instructions explaining what to review, sign, and include.
- Submit your application
Follow the provided instructions to mail the application or submit it in person at a passport acceptance facility, depending on the applicant’s age, eligibility, and required form.
- Track your application
After submission, you can follow the application’s progress while the U.S. Department of State reviews the request.
Apply With Clear Guidance
A second passport book application requires more explanation and supporting evidence than a standard passport application. US Passport Assist helps you understand the requirements, prepare the appropriate form and statement, and organize your application package for submission with greater clarity and confidence.
Common questions
Can a U.S. citizen have two passports?
Yes. The State Department issues a second passport book valid for 4 years to travelers with a documented need, such as concurrent visa processing or itineraries where existing stamps create entry problems. It requires a signed explanation letter with the application.
More answers in the FAQ hub.