Passports Are Getting a New Look! Meet the Next Generation Passport

The new passport is a modernized U.S. passport book, which we started issuing in 2021. While our previous electronic passports are secure, the Next Generation Passport book uses new technologies to produce a more robust passport with enhanced security features, such as a polycarbonate data page, laser-engraved personalization, and updated artwork. These improved security features help protect your identity, make counterfeiting or altering more difficult, and streamline the entry and exit process.

We are only issuing the NGP for passport books. We will soon upgrade and modernize our other document, the passport card.

How Is the Next Generation Passport More Secure Than the Old Passport?

The Next Generation Passport has many unique features that help to ensure your safety. The hope is that these advanced security measures will help to prevent identity theft and counterfeiting.

Some of the features that the NGP has that makes it more secure include:

• A Polycarbonate Data Page
• Updated Artwork
• Laser Engraved Personalization
• A Black and White Photo Image
• A Multi-layered plastic data page

What’s the Difference Between the Old Passport and the Next Generation Passport?

According to the U.S. Department of State website, The NGP is an entire redesign of the old passport in terms of look, feel, and security. It will help keep your personal information safe and make you less susceptible to becoming a victim of counterfeiting and identity theft. Some other key differences between the passports include that the NGP is made with polycarbonate, has a passport number with both numbers and letters, and has a multi-layered plastic data page.

1. What are the security features of the new passport?

2. What is an Alphanumeric passport number?

The passport number in the NGP book begins with a letter, followed by eight numbers. It is located in the top right corner of your data page and is included throughout the NGP book on the bottom of each page.

3. Do changes to the U.S. passport require current travelers to change or upgrade their book or card?

No. Passport books and cards remain valid for international travel until their date of expiration. You may continue to travel with your current e-Passport book or card without a problem. For information on how to renew your passport. Contact us today for more information.

4. How can I request a Next Generation Passport?

You cannot request a specific version of the passport book, and we cannot guarantee that you will receive a Next Generation Passport. We are gradually replacing existing e-Passport printers with NGP printers at our passport agencies and centers. Since e-Passports continue to meet and exceed international passport security standards, both e-Passports and the NGP can be used for international travel.

5. My new passport book has a QR code sticker on the back. What is it for?

We are placing Quick Response (QR) code stickers on the back of passport books to give you easy access to important passport and travel information. You may remove the sticker, though we recommend keeping it on so you have quick and easy access to our website. If you scan the code using the camera on your mobile device, it will link you to our website. If you do not wish to scan the code, you can also access the After I Get My Passport webpage. The QR code is identical on all passport books, does not contain any personally identifiable information, nor does it change the way border officials, airlines, and others review your document. We are not currently placing QR code stickers on passport cards.