Do passports do background checks?
Asked by: Art Padberg | Last update: April 7, 2025Score: 4.2/5 (72 votes)
The US State Department handles passport applications and conducts background checks on applicants using the National Crime Information Center (NCIC) database. The NCIC is linked with all federal, tribal, state, and local law enforcement agencies in the US.
Do they do a criminal background check for a passport?
There is no question about criminal history on the application for a passport, but one thing a person needs to keep in mind is that a passport is simply a form of international identification. It allows a person to get back into the U.S. but does not allow entry into a foreign country.
What can disqualify you from getting a passport?
- A valid, unsealed federal warrant of arrest.
- A federal or state criminal court order.
- A condition of parole or probation forbidding departure from the United States (or the jurisdiction of the court)
- A request for extradition.
Does a US passport show criminal history?
Generally, criminal offenses (including DUIs) do not appear on passports. While a DUI conviction does not appear on your passport, it can still affect your international travel.
Can a felon eventually get a passport?
Having a felony conviction does not automatically disqualify someone from getting a passport. The State Department typically only denies passports for specific reasons like: Owing $2,500+ in child support. Being subject to sex offender registration requirements.
The Countries I can (and can't) travel to with a Criminal Record
Can felons go on a cruise?
Cruise Line Background Checks
As a result, you could be denied boarding if you are a sex offender or have a violent felony conviction on your record, such as for armed robbery.
Can you get a passport if you have warrants?
Additional Charges that Can Lead to a Passport Denial
You may have outstanding traffic fines that won't affect your passport approval. However, your passport can be denied if you have an outstanding warrant for a local, state, or federal felony offense.
What disqualifies you from a federal background check?
INTERIM DISQUALIFYING CRIMINAL OFFENSES
Extortion. Dishonesty, fraud, or misrepresentation, including identity fraud and money laundering, where the money laundering is related to a crime listed in Parts A or B (except welfare fraud and passing bad checks). Bribery. Smuggling.
What do they check for in a passport application?
- Valid or expired, undamaged U.S. passport book or passport card.
- In-state, fully valid driver's license or enhanced driver's license with photo.
- Certificate of Naturalization.
- Certificate of Citizenship.
- Government employee ID (city, county, state, or federal)
Does a DUI show up on your passport?
A DUI conviction itself does not appear on your passport because passports are identification documents, not criminal records. However, if your DUI resulted in legal restrictions—such as probation or being barred from leaving the country—this can indirectly impact your ability to use your passport.
Can you get a passport if you have debt collection?
Generally, the State Department will not issue passports to taxpayers after receiving their delinquent debt certification from the IRS. The State Department may also deny a taxpayer's passport application or revoke their current passport.
Do they take your birth certificate for a passport?
Required passport application documents
At your appointment, you will also need: Proof of U.S. citizenship: A U.S. birth certificate, Consular Report of Birth Abroad or Certification of Birth, Certificate of Naturalization, or Certificate of Citizenship are all acceptable documents.
What will stop you from getting a passport?
If you've failed to make payments on a loan from the Department of State you would need to pay it off before sending in your application. Certain court orders, being convicted of a felony, or if you're wanted on an arrest warrant, can also result in a passport denial.
Can I travel with a misdemeanor?
Will a misdemeanor conviction affect my travel plans? It depends on the country you're visiting. Some countries, such as Canada, treat misdemeanors like DUIs as grounds for denying entry. Others may not consider minor offenses disqualifying unless they involve violence or drugs.
Can I get a passport if I'm on probation?
654. IMPORTANT! GET PERMISSION FROM YOUR PAROLE OR PROBATION OFFICER TO APPLY FOR A PASSPORT OR TRAVEL: If you are on supervision (like parole or probation), you MUST get permission from your parole or probation officer if you want to apply for a Passport (even if you are legally allowed to leave the country).
What causes a red flag on a background check?
A red flag in a background check is anything alarming or concerning about a person's past. This could be a history of breaking the law, lying about work experience or education, or other serious issues. However, not all red flags are the same. Some might be small and not that serious, depending on the job.
What looks bad on a background check?
Warning signs on a background check include multiple periods of unexplained unemployment, inconsistent information, short periods of employment, minimal relevant job experience, no required education or training, professional license issues, dangerous criminal convictions, job-related criminal convictions, bad ...
Does a passport show a criminal record?
Passports primarily contain information such as the holder's name, date of birth, photograph, and passport number, which are used for identification and travel purposes. However, certain countries may require travelers to disclose criminal convictions, including DUIs, when applying for a visa or entry into the country.
How do I know if my passport is flagged?
Extended questioning can be a sign that you've been flagged for further inspection. Secondary Inspection: If you're directed to secondary inspection upon arrival at a U.S. port of entry, it could indicate that you've been flagged for additional scrutiny.
What is the 6 month rule for passports?
The 'Six-Month Rule' stipulates that your passport should have at least six months of validity remaining from the date of your entry or departure to or from the international destination. If your passport expiration date is sooner than six months from your date of arrival, you may not be admitted.
Can felons get passports?
Most convicted felons in the US can obtain a passport after completing their sentence. That said, certain felony convictions can still disqualify you from getting a passport. Other reasons for being denied a US passport include failing to pay child support or having significant outstanding federal tax debts.
Can the airport see if you have warrants?
Connection with Law Enforcement – While TSA itself isn't looking for warrants, if they encounter a situation requiring local law enforcement (like a dispute, suspicious behavior, or detected prohibited items), the police called to the scene may run your information and discover the warrant.
Can you get a passport if you have debt?
Seriously delinquent tax debt is your unpaid, federal tax debt which includes interest and penalties. If the Secretary of the Treasury let us know you have seriously delinquent tax debt, we cannot issue a U.S. passport to you. We may also revoke your valid U.S. passport.