Myth 1: U.S. Passports Are Only for International Travel

Many people think of their passport as just a ticket to foreign adventures, but it can do a lot more. A U.S. passport is one of the most powerful forms of ID you can own. It’s accepted in banks, government buildings, and even some domestic flights as a primary ID. In 2024, government agencies urged people to use their passports for Real ID compliance, since not all state driver’s licenses meet federal standards yet. This means a passport could be your backup for domestic air travel if your license doesn’t qualify. Passports also help with emergency situations where proof of citizenship is needed quickly, like natural disasters or legal issues. Some people even use their passport to speed up background checks for jobs and housing. So, it’s not just an international travel document—it’s a versatile piece of your official identity.
Myth 2: You Can’t Renew an Expired Passport

A surprisingly stubborn myth is that once your passport expires, you have to start the entire process from scratch. In reality, you can renew a U.S. passport by mail up to five years after its expiration, as long as it meets certain conditions. The State Department’s website clearly states that as long as your old passport isn’t damaged, issued when you were over 16, and in your current name (or you can provide legal proof of the name change), you’re eligible for renewal. In 2025, officials reported that more than 40% of renewals came from people whose passports had already expired. This shows just how common this misunderstanding is. Don’t toss out your expired passport—it still holds value for the renewal process. Just remember, after five years past expiration, you’ll need to apply for a new one in person.
Myth 3: Children’s Passports Last 10 Years

Plenty of parents make travel plans, thinking their child’s passport will last as long as an adult’s. But in reality, U.S. passports for children under 16 are valid for only five years. This shorter validity is meant to keep up with kids’ rapidly changing appearances. In 2024, the State Department warned families to double-check expiration dates, especially since more families are traveling post-pandemic. Many were shocked to find their child’s passport expired when booking summer trips. Unlike adult passports, there’s no renewal by mail for children—you have to apply in person each time. Experts recommend setting calendar reminders for your child’s passport expiration. Don’t let this myth ruin your next family vacation. Double-check those dates before you start dreaming about the beach.
Myth 4: Passport Processing Always Takes Months

Stories of passport delays have dominated headlines, especially during peak travel seasons, but the truth is a bit more nuanced now. While 2023 saw severe backlogs, the State Department made big improvements in 2024. Routine processing times dropped to 6–8 weeks, with expedited service often taking just 2–3 weeks. The department added weekend hours and more staff after a surge of complaints last year. Still, people are understandably nervous about cutting it close. Experts recommend applying at least three months before your trip, just in case. But the days of waiting “forever” are largely over for most travelers. In fact, over 60% of applicants in early 2025 reported receiving their passport within the standard window.
Myth 5: You Need a Passport to Travel to Puerto Rico or Other U.S. Territories

Many Americans believe they need a passport to visit places like Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands, or Guam. The truth is, if you’re a U.S. citizen, you do not need a passport to enter these U.S. territories. These destinations are considered domestic travel, and a state-issued ID is enough. In fact, TSA confirms this every year, but confusion persists—especially with headlines about changing travel rules. Some travelers still bring their passports “just in case,” but it’s unnecessary. However, airlines will ask for valid photo ID, so don’t forget your driver’s license or other accepted ID. The only exception is if you’re traveling through another country to get there, like some routes to the Northern Mariana Islands. For direct flights, no passport needed—just pack your sunscreen.
Myth 6: Dual Citizens Can’t Have Two Passports

It’s a common belief that holding two passports is illegal or suspicious, but for dual citizens, it’s completely allowed and actually recommended. If you’re a U.S. citizen and also a citizen of another country, you can own and use both passports. The U.S. government expects you to enter and leave the United States using your U.S. passport, but you can use your other country’s passport when traveling there. In 2024, the State Department clarified these rules after a wave of confusion at international airports. Many dual citizens find that having both passports makes travel smoother, especially when crossing borders that may require visas for U.S. travelers but not for their other nationality. There’s nothing shady about it—it’s simply a perk of having ties to more than one country.
Myth 7: A Damaged Passport Is Still Valid

Some travelers think a little wear and tear doesn’t matter, but the State Department is strict about passport condition. If your passport is significantly damaged—like torn pages, water damage, or a broken chip—it’s considered invalid, even if it hasn’t expired yet. In 2024, border officials reported an uptick in travelers being turned away due to damaged documents. Even small rips or stains can cause trouble, especially with newer e-passports that have embedded chips. “If in doubt, get a replacement,” one customs agent advised in a recent interview. Don’t risk missing your trip over a bent cover or ink spill. The safest move is to treat your passport like a prized possession and replace it at the first sign of real damage.
Myth 8: You Can Travel Internationally with a Passport Card

The passport card is a source of ongoing confusion. It looks official, but it’s not a substitute for a regular passport book. The passport card can only be used for land and sea travel to Canada, Mexico, Bermuda, and the Caribbean—not for international air travel. In 2024, the State Department had to issue reminders after several travelers were denied boarding at airports with just a card. The card is handy for border towns or cruises, but it won’t get you on a plane overseas. It’s smaller and less expensive than a passport book, but its use is limited. Think of it as a convenience for specific trips, not a global travel pass. Always double-check which document you need before you go.
Myth 9: You Must Have Six Months Validity Left to Travel Anywhere

A lot of travelers panic if their passport is set to expire in less than six months, but the rules aren’t as simple as some think. While many countries do require at least six months’ validity on your passport, not all do. For example, Canada, Mexico, and most Caribbean nations allow entry as long as your passport is valid for the duration of your stay. In 2025, travel experts urge people to check each country’s specific requirements well before booking. Airlines may also have their own policies, sometimes stricter than the destination’s laws. The six-month rule is a good general guideline, but it’s not universal. Always look up the exact entry requirements for your trip to avoid surprises at the airport.
Myth 10: Applying for a Passport Is a Complicated, In-Person Process

The idea that getting a passport means endless paperwork and waiting in line at the post office is quickly becoming outdated. In 2024, the U.S. State Department expanded its online passport renewal pilot, making it easier for millions of Americans to renew from home. The process for first-time applicants still requires an in-person visit, but renewals are much simpler now. The government’s official site guides users through the steps and offers clear checklists. Many people in 2025 reported finishing their renewal online in under 30 minutes, with tracking updates sent straight to their email. The days of complicated, confusing paperwork are fading fast, replaced by a much more user-friendly experience.