Passport Signature Requirements

Passport Signature Requirements

Congratulations on your new passport! The last step to make your new passport official is to sign the first page. The signature of bearer is required by the U.S. Department of State in order for your new passport to be considered valid. We recommend signing with your normal signature.

U.S. Passport Signature Requirements

The U.S. Department of State website does not have specific requirements listed for passport signature instructions. The most common error with passport signatures is simply not signing the passport. A U.S. Passport is only valid once the applicant receives and signs their passport book, so don’t forget this step. To find your passport signature section, open your passport to the page opposite your photo page. There is a line indicating where you should sign: “Signature of bearer.”

You should use a non-ballpoint pen. Sign your passport using your typical signature. Make sure the ink is dry before closing your passport in order to prevent smearing the signature. The passport signature is not required for the Passport Card. Now that you’ve signed the passport and made the passport book valid, open to page seven. Write your address under “Bearer’s Address.” Write all of this information with a pencil. Your passport is valid for ten years (minor passports are only valid for five). If your address or emergency contact changes, be sure to update it accordingly. Fill out the emergency contact information on the bottom of page seven. Write your contact’s name, address, and phone number.

How to Correct a Passport Signature Mistake

If you signed your passport incorrectly or there is a mistake in your signature, you may leave it if it is not too bad. If you think you need to change it, simply strike a single line through the mistake and sign the correct signature. If this is not good enough, you may need to apply for a replacement passport.

Minor Passport Signature Requirements

Minors should sign their own passports if they are old enough to sign their own name. Otherwise, the parent or legal guardian should sign the name of the parent of guardian and then indicate the relationship to the child.