A passport is an internationally recognized travel document that
verifies the identity and nationality of the bearer. A valid U.S.
passport is required to enter and leave most foreign countries.
Only the U.S. Department of State has the authority to grant,
issue or verify United States passports.
Once your passport is issued to you, it remains the property of
the United States Government. As stated in each passport, "The
passport must be surrendered upon demand if made by an authorized
representative of the United States Government."
A passport is a unique document in that is both proof of citizenship
of the United States of America and proof of identity. You can use a
passport as proof of identity for almost all purposes where you
ordinarily would use a driver's license
For travel to certain countries you can prove your citizenship without
a passport, however most countries require you to present a current,
valid passport for admission. If you are traveling to a country that
does not require a passport, as proof of citizenship you can present
an original or certified copy of one of the following documents:
• Birth certificate
• Certificate of Naturalization
• Certificate of Citizenship
• Report of Birth Abroad of a Citizen of the United States.
If you are traveling to a country that does not require a passport and
you do not present a passport upon entrance, you also should be prepared
to present proof of your identity. To prove your identity, a valid
driver's license or government identification card is acceptable provided
they identify you by physical description or photograph.
However, for travel overseas and to facilitate reentry into the U.S., the
U.S. State Department says, "a valid U.S. passport is the best documentation
available and unquestionably proves your U.S. citizenship."
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