The passport application process comes down to the following key documents: a complete passport application form (e.g., form DS-11), proof of U.S. citizenship, two passport photos, and a photo ID. While the other documents are often straightforward, the photo ID requirement is often challenging for many. And often, people ask, “Can I use my learner’s permit as ID for passport?” Let’s find out:
Can I Use My Learner’s Permit As ID for Passport?
When you apply for a passport, you must present a government-issued photo ID verifying your identity. Below are the primary photo IDs acceptable at the state passport office:
- A valid passport book or card in good condition,
- A valid foreign passport,
- A valid driver’s license with a photo,
- A permanent residence card,
- A trusted traveler card,
- A military/ military dependent/ government employee ID,
- A certificate of naturalization or citizenship,
- A Matricula Consular,
- A Native American tribal photo ID, or
- An enhanced tribal card.
As you can see, a learner’s permit is not on the primary ID list. You might ask, “Can I use my learner’s permit as ID?” Yes!
The state passport offices allow passport applicants to use their learner’s permits as secondary photo IDs if they cannot present any of the above documents. However, a secondary ID is not sufficient on its own and must be accompanied by another valid secondary ID.
Is a Learner’s Permit a Valid ID?
What if you do not have a primary ID? Is a learner’s permit a valid ID? The learner’s permit suffices as enough ID for a passport application if you can present it along with one of the following documents:
- An enhanced driver’s license with a photo,
- An out-of-state driver’s license with a photo,
- An out-of-state non-driver ID,
- A valid in-state non-driver ID without a photo,
- A temporary driver’s license without a photo,
- A student ID,
- A health card,
- A selective service card,
- A school yearbook with a photo,
- An employee work ID,
- An expired driver’s license,
- A voter registration card, and
- A social security card.
You can also present it with a complete form DS-71 for an identifying witness, which you can find at the local state passport office.
Can I Use My Permit As an ID to Fly?
Anyone flying outside the U.S. to a non-U.S. territory must have a valid passport. But domestic flights have flexible requirements. To answer your question, “Can I use my permit as an ID to fly?” People over 18 may need a photo ID, depending on the airline and if you are checking a bag. You can consult the airline before booking a ticket; some may accept a learner’s permit as ID.
