How to Get a Passport with an Expired Driver's License

If your driver’s license has expired and you’re in need of a passport, you’re probably feeling the pressure, especially if you’re working with tight deadlines. Don’t worry, though; it’s still possible to get your passport. While an expired driver’s license alone isn’t enough to complete your application, you can still move forward by providing other documents to prove your identity and citizenship.

This guide will walk you through everything you need to get your passport fast, without the hassle.

Need your passport quickly? Connect with us at (708) 360-7277 to get started. 

Quick Overview:

• An expired driver’s license is not accepted as valid ID for passport applications.

  • You’ll need to provide additional identification, such as a temporary paper ID from the DMV and other secondary documents.

  • Do not sign Form DS-11 before your appointment. It must be signed in front of a passport agent.

  • Any legal documents, such as marriage certificates or court orders for name changes, must be certified copies. Photocopies won’t be accepted.

  • Get My Passports offers complete support: compliant photos, document review, and courier submission to passport agencies for faster processing.

Step-by-Step Process for a Smooth Passport Application

Wondering, "Can I get a passport with an expired driver’s license?" Follow the steps given below to complete your application without any hassle.

Step 1. Check If You're Eligible for a New Passport

Before you start gathering your documents, it’s important to first check the status of your old passport. This will help you determine whether you need to apply for a new passport or if you can simply renew it.

• Expired Passport: If your passport was issued when you were under 16 or it’s been more than 15 years since it was issued, you’ll need to apply for a new passport with Form DS-11.

• Damaged or Lost Passport: A damaged or lost passport cannot be renewed. In this case, you will need to apply for a new passport using Form DS-11.

• First-time Applicants: If you’ve never had a passport, you must apply in person using Form DS-11.

• Applying for a Child: For children under 16, the process is different. You’ll need both parents’ consent and additional documentation.

Ensure that you review the status of your old passport and determine whether you need to renew it or apply for a new one.

You can rely on Get My Passports to expedite your application, even if your ID has expired! Book an appointment now.

Step 2. Prepare Form DS-11

Once you’ve checked your eligibility and gathered the required documents, your next step is to complete Form DS-11. This form is required for all new passport applications, as well as for expired, lost, or damaged passports that cannot be renewed by mail.

Where to Find Form DS-11

You can download the form directly from the U.S. Department of State’s website at travel.state.gov. Alternatively, you can pick up a physical copy at a local passport acceptance facility, like a post office or library.

What You’ll Need to Fill Out Form DS-11

Before you start filling out the form, make sure you have the following documents on hand:

• Proof of U.S. citizenship (e.g., your birth certificate, previous passport, Certificate of Citizenship).

• Photo identification ( If your driver’s license is expired, visit the DMV for a temporary paper ID, accepted for passport applications)

• Passport photos that meet the U.S. government’s requirements (2x2 inches, white background, no glasses).

Ensure that all documents are originals or certified copies. Photocopies are not accepted.

How to Fill Out Form DS-11

Carefully go through each section and answer the questions truthfully. Here's what you'll need to provide:

• Full name (as it appears on your birth certificate or other proof of citizenship).

• Date and place of birth.

• Parents’ full names (including mother's maiden name).

• Current address.

• Social Security number (if applicable).

• Emergency contact information.

• Travel details, such as the destination and dates.

Each section needs to be completed accurately. Take your time and avoid any errors or omissions, as they can cause delays or rejection.

Don’t Sign Yet

This is an important step! Do not sign the form until you’re in front of a passport agent at the acceptance facility. Signing the form in advance will invalidate it. During your appointment, the agent will ask you to sign the form, and they’ll witness it to ensure authenticity.

Understanding the Payment of Fees

There are several fees you’ll need to pay during your passport appointment, depending on your application type and any expedited services you choose. Here’s a breakdown of the current fees:

• Government Fees (Paid to the U.S. Department of State):

  • Passport Book (Renewal or New): $130

  • Expedited Processing Fee (Speeds up processing to 2-3 weeks): $60

  • 1-2 Day Delivery (Faster shipping once your passport is issued): $22.05

  • Total Government Fees (Standard processing + expedited): $212.05

• Get My Passports Service Fees (If using expedited services for faster processing):

  • 4-6 Week Expedited Service: $199

  • 21-Day Expedited Service: $249

  • 10-14 Day Expedited Service: $299

  • 3-5 Business Day Expedited Service: $399

Be Prepared for the Signature Process

At the passport acceptance facility, an agent will go over the form with you to ensure it’s correctly filled out. You’ll sign it in front of them, and they will verify your identification documents. This is where the in-person requirement needs to be fulfilled so your application can be processed.

If you want to ensure everything is filled out correctly and avoid any delays, Get My Passports is here to help. We handle the entire passport application process from start to finish, including document review, error correction, and compliant passport photos. We can even arrange for courier submission to passport agencies to expedite your application.

Call us at (708) 360-7277, and we will guide you through every step, making the process smooth and stress-free.

Step 3. Gather Proof of U.S. Citizenship

When applying for a passport, you must provide proof of your U.S. citizenship. This is a critical part of the process, and it’s essential to bring original documents or certified copies. Photocopies or non-certified copies will be rejected, which could delay your passport application.

Here are the acceptable primary documents:

• Certified U.S. birth certificate: This document should be issued by the county or state, containing your full name, place of birth, and parents’ details.

• Previously issued, undamaged U.S. passport: If you’re renewing or replacing an expired passport, it can serve as proof of citizenship, as long as it’s not damaged or too old.

• Consular Report of Birth Abroad: This is for individuals born overseas to U.S. citizen parents.

• Certificate of Citizenship or Naturalization: If you were naturalized as a U.S. citizen or were born abroad to U.S. parents, this certificate is official proof of citizenship.

Also Read, 8 Main Reasons for Passport Denial or Ineligibility, to avoid common pitfalls and ensure your application is successful!

Step 4. Understand Passport Photo ID Requirements

When applying for a U.S. passport, you’ll need to present a valid photo ID. Unfortunately, a driver’s license cannot be used as a valid ID if it has expired for more than 12 months. Additionally:

• Temporary licenses, digital IDs, or paper copies of IDs are not accepted.

• You must present a current, government-issued photo ID, such as a driver’s license or state ID.

If your expired driver’s license is the only ID you have, you will need to provide additional documentation as explained below. It's crucial to present an ID that proves your identity clearly.

Step 5. Assemble Secondary or Supplemental Identification

If your expired driver’s license is your only form of ID, you’ll first need to visit the DMV to get a temporary paper ID. This temporary ID, issued by the DMV and containing your photo and identifying details, is accepted for passport applications.

At Get My Passports, we will guide you through the DMV process and ensure you return with the proper temporary ID so we can move your passport application forward smoothly. Once you have your temporary ID, it's still a good idea to bring additional supporting documents such as:

• School or Work ID

• Health insurance card with photo

• Credit or debit card with your full name

• Utility bill or lease showing your name and address

These help strengthen your application and prevent delays.

Step 6. Use a Personal Identifying Witness (If Needed)

If you don’t have a valid photo ID (either due to expiration or loss), there is an option for you to use a Personal Identifying Witness. This person must meet specific requirements:

• The witness must have known you for at least 2 years and be able to confirm your identity.

• They must complete Form DS-71 in person at the passport acceptance facility.

• The witness must bring their own valid photo ID (e.g., a current driver’s license, state ID, or passport).

• The witness must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident.

This process is a helpful backup for those who don’t have a valid ID themselves, but it’s important to make sure the witness meets all the criteria to avoid any delays.

Step 7. Bring Supporting Legal Documents (If Applicable)

If your current legal name doesn’t match the name on your citizenship or ID documents, you’ll need to bring supporting legal documents to explain the discrepancy. This ensures the U.S. government can verify your identity and name change. Common scenarios include:

• Marriage certificate: If your last name changed after marriage, provide a certified copy of your marriage certificate to reflect the name change.

• Divorce decree: If your name was changed due to a divorce and you’re reverting to a former name, include a certified copy of your divorce decree.

• Court order for name change: If your name was changed through a court order, provide a certified copy of the legal court order.

Important: If any of these documents are in a foreign language, you’ll need to bring a certified English translation. Without this translation, your documents may not be accepted.

Also, check our blog, Acceptable Proof of Travel for Expedited Passports.

Step 8. Provide Government-Compliant Passport Photos

When applying for a U.S. passport, your passport photos must meet specific requirements. Here’s what you need to know:

• Size: Your photos must be 2x2 inches.

• Facial expression: Maintain a neutral facial expression, no smiling or frowning.

• Background: The background should be plain white (no patterns or shadows).

• No accessories: Glasses, hats, or anything covering your face are not allowed. No shadows on your face or background.

• Get photos taken at a reliable provider: Ensure the provider is experienced in taking passport-compliant photos, as incorrect photos will cause delays.

At Get My Passports, we provide photos that meet the exact U.S. government standards:

• $20 for U.S. standard photos

• $35 for Canadian/UK/European compliant photos

We ensure your photos are accepted the first time, saving you time and frustration.

Step 9. Schedule and Attend Your Passport Appointment

Once you’ve gathered all your documents and photos, the next step is to schedule and attend your passport appointment. Here’s how:

• Locate a passport acceptance facility: Find a passport acceptance facility near you (e.g., post office, library, or county clerk’s office). You can use the U.S. Department of State’s locator tool to find one.

• Book an appointment: Many facilities require you to make an appointment in advance, especially if you’re applying for a new passport or if you need to submit your documents in person. Be sure to bring all the necessary documents to your appointment:

  • Form DS-11 (completed but unsigned)

  • Proof of U.S. citizenship

  • Valid or supplemental ID (such as your expired driver’s license with additional IDs, as mentioned earlier)

  • Passport photos (2 recent, compliant photos)

• Submit your documents: At the appointment, an agent will review all your documents, verify your identity, and witness your signature. The passport agent will ensure everything is in order before sending your application for processing.

Recommended: How to Quickly Get an Urgent Passport

Step 10. Track and Receive Your Passport

After submitting your application, you can track the status of your passport and check when it will arrive. Here’s how to keep tabs on your application:

• Monitor your application status: Go to passportstatus.state.gov to track your passport’s status.

• Standard processing times: Passport processing typically takes about 8-11 weeks. However, please be aware that delays are common, especially if there are issues with your ID documentation or if you submit incomplete paperwork.

• Expedited processing: If you need your passport sooner, you can choose expedited processing. Here are the options:

  • Government expedited service: Takes about 2-3 weeks.

  • Expediting service via Get My Passports: We offer 3-5 day processing for urgent travel.

If you’re on a tight timeline, Get My Passports can help expedite the process, ensuring that your passport reaches you as quickly as possible.

Stress-Free Expedited Passport Services in Chicago

If you're in Chicago and feeling stressed about getting your passport, especially if your driver’s license is expired, Get My Passports is here to make the process simple and stress-free. We specialize in helping clients with non-standard situations, including expired IDs, ensuring your passport application is still accepted without delays.

When your primary ID expires, we guide you through the process of obtaining a temporary paper ID from the DMV. This temporary ID must include your photo and identifying information, and it's a valid form of identification for passport applications.

From there, we assist with collecting additional secondary IDs, such as work or school IDs, utility bills, or insurance cards, to further support your identity verification. Once your documents are ready, we take care of the rest. Here's how we can assist:

Our Services Include:

• Document Review & Error Correction: We carefully review all your paperwork—including your expired license, temporary ID, and secondary documents to ensure everything is complete and correct before submission.

• Compliant Passport Photos: We provide U.S.-compliant passport photos that meet all government specifications. Our photos are carefully checked to help them pass the first time, saving you time and effort. We offer:

  • $20 for U.S. standard photos

  • $35 for Canadian/UK/European compliant photos

• Expedited Passport Services: Need your passport quickly? We offer expedited processing services with 3-5 day delivery. You won’t have to wait for weeks. We can help you with:

  • Standard Government Expedited Processing: 2-3 weeks

  • Get My Passports Expedited Service: 3-5 days

• courier submission to Passport Agencies: To expedite processing, we submit your documents to the relevant passport agency, eliminating long lines and confusion.

• Clear and Transparent Fee Breakdown: We’ll guide you through all the costs associated with getting your passport, ensuring you understand every fee involved, whether it's for expedited services, photo compliance, or government charges. There are no hidden costs.

At Get My Passports, we’re dedicated to providing fast, reliable, and personalized services to get your passport issued quickly and without hassle. We handle everything from document review to submitting your completed passport, right here in Chicago.

Need your passport fast? Call us at (708) 360-7277 or book an appointment at our Chicago office today. Let us help you get your passport in no time.

Conclusion

Dealing with an expired driver’s license during your passport application can feel overwhelming. The uncertainty of whether your documents will be accepted or if you’ve missed a critical step can cause unnecessary stress. But with the right guidance, this process doesn’t have to be difficult.

That’s where Get My Passports can help. Based in Chicago, Illinois, we specialize in making sure your application is flawlessly completed, with document review, error correction, and compliant passport photos. We can even expedite your processing and handle courier submission to passport agencies, ensuring your passport arrives as quickly as possible.

Don’t leave your passport application to chance. Call us today at (708) 360-7277, or visit our Chicago office to get expert help and have your passport in hand in no time.