We all know that international travel requires a valid passport.
But—
Did you know that not all passports are created equal?
In fact, there are several types of US passports, each serving a unique purpose. However, one type that often raises questions is the Type “P” passport.
So, what exactly is it?
In this article, we’ll explore what a Type “P” passport is, whether you should consider getting one, and more.
Want to learn more about US passports? Check these:
- Passport Place of Issue: What Is It and Where to Find It
- Can You Book an International Flight Without a Passport?
- US Passport Book vs Card
- How Long Does It Take To Get a Passport?
Types of US Passports: What Are They?
When you think about passports, you probably picture the classic blue book.
But there’s more than meets the eye.
American passports fall into two categories: fee passports and special issuance passports. In total, there are five types of travel documents for US citizens, but not everyone qualifies for each type.
Let’s explore them:
- Diplomatic passport (Type “D”): Provided to top-ranking government officials, their families, and the President of the United States.
- Official passport (Type “S”): Issued to government employees traveling on official business.
- Service passport: Granted to third-party contractors traveling to support the US government.
- No-fee regular passport (Type “F”): Given to certain government employees or their dependents traveling abroad for work.
Fee passport (Type “P”): The Type “P” passport, also known as the regular, tourist, or ordinary passport, is the standard passport book issued to US citizens.
Type “P” passport: interesting facts
- The “P” in Type “P” passport stands for personal, as these passports are issued for personal use, such as travel.
- The cover of a “P” passport is blue, just like a Type “F” passport.
- The passport type code is a 12-digit number found in the information page’s top right corner.
- In 2023, the US Department of State issued 24,021,257 passports, the highest number since 1996.
- In 2023, nearly half of Americans (48%) had a valid passport.
Should You Get a Type “P” Passport?
If you plan to travel internationally, the answer is likely yes.
All US citizens need a passport to enter and exit most countries. However, there are other benefits for “P” type passport holders.
They are as follows:
- Visa-free travel: A US passport is one of the most powerful passports in the world, allowing you to travel without a visa to 116 countries.
- Visa applications: A passport is essential for all visa applications.
- Biometric security: The Type “P” passport is a high-security biometric passport, meaning it’s nearly impossible to forge.
- Long-lasting ID document: Passports are reliable forms of identification for various purposes. They are valid for 10 years (five for minors).
Real ID alternative: Starting May 7, 2025, all citizens will need a Real ID to fly, even domestically. Fortunately, a passport is a perfect alternative to an enhanced driver’s license or ID card.
How to Apply for a Type “P” Passport?
Applying for a Type “P” passport involves several steps:
- Complete the application form: Fill out Form DS-11 if you’re a first-time applicant or DS-82 if you’re renewing your passport.
- Submit proof of citizenship: Provide an original birth certificate, a certificate of naturalization, or an expired passport.
- Provide proof of identity: Provide a government-issued ID such as a driver’s license.
- Take a photo: Submit a passport photo that meets the US Department of State’s passport photo specifications.
- Pay the fee: The application fee for a Type “P” passport is approximately $130 for adults and $100 for minors under 16. The total passport cost also includes an acceptance fee of $35.00.
Your passport will be sent to you once the acceptance facility processes the application.
The processing time usually takes between eight and 11 weeks.
Remember, providing a passport photo that doesn’t meet all official requirements can lead to rejection. Luckily, you can get a compliant photo without leaving home with the PhotoAiD® app for iOS or PhotoAiD® for Android.
You might also be interested in:
- How Much Does a Passport Cost?
- Passport Renewal at the Post Office: Can You Apply at the USPS?
- How to Take a Passport Photo at Home [4 Quick Steps]
- Passport Application for Minors in the U.S.
FAQ
What does the P mean on a passport?
How much does the Type “P” passport cost?
What are the three types of passports?
– Diplomatic passports
– Official passports
– Service passports
– No-fee regular passports
– Regular fee passport (Type “P” passport book)
What’s the difference between a no-fee passport and a tourist passport?
Sources:
- https://py.usembassy.gov/wp-content/uploads/sites/274/2017/05/CAHeader-TYPES-OF-PASSPORTS-Nov-22-2016.pdf
- https://www.passportindex.org/passport/united-states-of-america/
- https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/about-us/reports-and-statistics.html
- https://www.state.gov/return-to-pre-pandemic-passport-processing-times
- https://www.dhs.gov/real-id
- https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/passports/how-apply/photos.html
Sylwia is a skilled writer with a BA in English Studies and an active SPJ member. For nearly three years now, she’s been writing captivating articles for international companies, turning her lifelong passion into a career.
