Skip to content

Design and Security of our Documents

We use the latest technology to ensure every U.S. passport and Consular Report of Birth Abroad (CRBA) helps keep the data of U.S. citizens secure.

Next generation passport book

Sample signature page and data page of the next generation passport book. It shows a photo, the passport expiration date, and other data about the owner of the passport.

We started issuing a next generation U.S. passport book in 2021. The book has many security features including a polycarbonate data page, laser engraving, updated artwork, and security fibers in the passport paper that look like tiny hairs. Another important feature is a perforated alphanumeric passport number on every page, which is a letter followed by 8 numbers. These features improve security and prevent counterfeiting. 

Passports that were issued with older designs are still secure and can be used for international travel, as long as they are not expired or damaged.

Passport card

Sample passport card, which shows an image and other identifying details about the owner. It is roughly the size of a driver’s license.

We first issued the passport card in 2008. The passport card is a less expensive, smaller, and convenient alternative to the U.S. passport book for those who travel frequently by land or by sea to Canada, Mexico, Bermuda, and some Caribbean destinations. 

The passport card is a wallet-sized, polycarbonate passport that has no visa pages. It uses advanced security features like raised print, microtext, color shifting ink, textured artwork and holograms. A passport card saves time at the U.S. land border by allowing you to use Ready Lanes. Travelers can display their passport cards to the in-lane RFID card readers before proceeding to a customs officer for inspection.

The card is not valid for international travel by air. It confirms both identity and U.S. citizenship and is REAL ID compliant.

Consular Report of Birth Abroad

Sample Consular Report of Birth Abroad. The text on the document certifies that the recipient is a U.S. citizen and contains other information typically included on a birth certificate, like the name of both parents.

We released a new design of the CRBA in 2025. The design includes new illustrations and updated security features. It shows the National Mall and the Tidal Basin in Washington, DC, during cherry blossom season. It has imagery of the Washington Monument, cherry blossoms, and the Potomac River. The design has additional tactile features to assist U.S citizens who are blind or have low vision.

Previous versions of the CRBA are still acceptable as proof of U.S. citizenship.

Return to top

Last Updated: May 13, 2026

Owned by Passport Services