15 Things Most Americans Still Get Wrong About Passports

Do you think your passport knowledge is airtight? Most travelers carry a few wrong assumptions—some small, others trip-ruining. Believing outdated or partial truths about your U.S. passport could cost you time, money, or even entry at the border. Here are 15 myths Americans continue to get wrong.

A Passport Card Works For All International Travel

Many confuse passport cards with passport books. Only land or sea travel to Canada, Mexico, Bermuda, and some Caribbean countries is permitted with a card. You can’t use them for international flights. If you’re flying abroad, that card won’t help at check-in.

Your Passport Just Needs To Be Valid On Departure

Too many travelers assume that if a passport is valid when they leave, they’re fine. In reality, over 70 countries require six months of validity beyond your return date. Without that buffer, you could be turned away at the gate or, worse, denied entry upon arrival.

All Post Offices Offer Passport Renewal Services

Not every post office handles passport renewals. Some locations accept applications; others don’t process anything at all. Even those who do often require appointments. Before heading out, use the U.S. State Department’s locator tool to find an official acceptance facility near you.

Dual Citizens Can Use Either Passport At Any Time

While dual citizens can hold two passports, they must use the correct one when entering and leaving each country. For example, U.S. citizens must always enter and exit the U.S. with their American passport, even if they have another nationality. Using the wrong passport can lead to delays or fines at immigration.

Kids’ Passports Last 10 Years Like Adults’ Do

Children under 16 get only five years of passport validity, not ten. A child’s features change quickly, so countries demand updated photos more often. So, if you’re planning a family trip, check your child’s passport expiration date. Renewals take time, and airlines don’t make exceptions for expired documents.

Cruises Don’t Require A Passport If They Start And End In The U.S.

“Closed-loop” cruises technically allow travel without a passport, but only by sea. If you’re unexpectedly evacuated, fall ill, or miss the ship and need to fly home, you’ll need a passport. A passport acts as affordable protection against unexpected detours or emergencies in foreign ports.

Any Recent Photo Will Work For A Passport

Passport photos aren’t casual selfies. The State Department requires strict dimensions, no filters, and neutral expressions, and the photo must be taken within the past six months. Therefore, submitting an incorrect photo will delay approval. Use a professional service or double-check official specs before uploading your shot or mailing your form.

You Can Get A Passport Same Day Without A Good Reason

Same-day passports are only issued for life-or-death emergencies or immediate international travel within 72 hours, with proof. Walk-ins don’t get fast-tracked. Even expedited service takes a few business days. So, book early, or risk losing money on flights and accommodations because your passport isn’t ready.

Slightly Damaged Passports Are Still Usable

Bent corners and worn covers may pass, but visible water damage, torn pages, or separation from the binding can invalidate a passport. If officials doubt your document’s integrity, they can reject it. Better to replace it in advance than argue with border control abroad.

Passport Stamps Are Just Souvenirs

Many travelers think passport stamps are just decorative, but they serve an important function. Some countries require proof of entry and exit stamps for visa renewals or future visits. Missing stamps can cause issues at immigration, especially if officials suspect unauthorized stays.

You Don’t Need To Carry Your Passport Everywhere

It might seem safer to leave your passport at the hotel, but many countries require tourists to carry it at all times. Police or immigration officers can request it during random checks. In some places, not having it on you could lead to fines or detainment.

You Can Use A Nickname On Your Passport

Passports must reflect your full legal name—no exceptions. Using a nickname or maiden name—even if it’s on your plane ticket—can create issues at customs. Names must match your identification documents exactly. Anything outside of this, you will risk being flagged for secondary screening or denial.

You Don’t Need To Update Your Passport After A Name Change

Marriage and court-ordered changes all require passport updates. You must submit legal proof and apply for a corrected document. Airlines don’t care if your name change was recent; your ID and booking details must match. Skipping this update can derail your entire itinerary.

You Can Renew Your Passport Years Before It Expires

Renewing early doesn’t cost you any remaining months—your new passport’s validity starts from its issue date, not the old one’s expiration. Still, renewing when you’ve got under a year left is smart. It avoids travel disruptions without cutting into your passport’s useful lifespan.

All Countries Have The Same Passport Requirements

Passport rules aren’t universal. Some countries require extra months of validity, others demand blank visa pages, and a few insist on vaccinations or proof of stay. Assuming consistency is risky because each nation sets its own entry requirements. So, checking embassy sites and the State Department travel page is essential before every trip.