Do they do a background check for a passport?

Asked by: Myrtis Bernier  |  Last update: October 29, 2025
Score: 4.7/5 (15 votes)

As part of the passport application process, you will be asked to answer questions about outstanding legal issues, including outstanding warrants. The Department of State can refuse a passport application if a person has: An outstanding warrant for a federal felony. An outstanding state or local warrant for a felony.

What disqualifies you from getting a US passport?

Some reasons to deny a passport include: 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)

Are background checks done for passports?

They will run you for warrants or criminal convictions here before a passport is issued, and whether you are on probation or have other legal restrictions of travel.

What do they check for passports?

First of all, the border control officers will check the integrity of the entire document. They will look at the passport cover, count the pages, and evaluate the correctness of filling in all the fields on the data page.

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.

Why Your Background Investigation May Ask for a Passport

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What crimes prevent you from getting a passport?

Applying for a US Passport with a Criminal History
  • Federal law (22 U.S. Code § 2714) prohibits issuing a passport to anyone convicted of international drug trafficking. ...
  • Individuals with felony convictions for trafficking minors or “sex tourism” offenses are also unlikely to receive a US passport.

Can I get a passport with a misdemeanor warrant?

The question remains, can you get a passport with a misdemeanor warrant? Yes! In most cases, such warrants do not impede your right to apply for a passport. Thus, you can go through the passport processes and get your travel documents ready as you await your court hearing.

What do passport records show?

Name, date and place of birth, Social Security Number, passport information, race, gender, phone number, personal address, email address, nationality, other names, employer/business contact information, biometrics/images, family information, mother's maiden name, arrests and convictions, and legal information.

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 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 background for a passport?

Your photo must be taken against a plain white or off-white background. Your expression should be neutral with both eyes open and directly facing the camera. Photos with unusual expressions and squinting will not be accepted.

What is checked during a background check?

Background checks look to verify details regarding an individual's identity, social security, past residences, criminal history, employment history, credit, and driving records. Employers can then use this information to make well-informed decisions about candidates, fostering safe and trustworthy workplaces.

Do you have to pass a 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 are 2 requirements to receive a US passport?

What do you need to get a passport?
  • Original proof of citizenship - Learn about what qualifies as primary citizenship evidence or what secondary evidence may qualify if you do not have primary evidence.
  • An acceptable photo ID.
  • A photocopy of both your citizenship document and photo ID.

Can I get a passport if I owe taxes?

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.

What can 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 you get a passport with a felony?

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.

Can you get a passport with a suspended license?

Decoding the Suspended License Dilemma

For instance, a suspension due to a first-time DUI might not impede your ability to obtain a passport. However, more severe offenses, particularly those classified as felonies, could lead to application denial.

Do airports check for felony warrants?

TSA's Role – The primary objective of the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) is to ensure passenger safety by screening for threats like weapons, explosives, and other prohibited items. They do not actively search for individuals with arrest warrants.

Do you get a refund if your passport is denied?

We cannot refund the passport application fee and the execution fee. By law, we collect both fees and keep them even if a passport is not issued.

Will I pass a background check with a misdemeanor warrant?

In California, all misdemeanor criminal convictions can show on a background check for a time. A background check is when an employer screens someone's history. They can disclose several issues, such as their criminal history, criminal convictions, jail time, and credit reports.

What do they check for a passport?

You must show at least one of these photo IDs:
  • 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)

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.

Does your criminal record show up when your passport is scanned?

When USA customs scan your passports they do not see criminal history/records. They only see criminal records if they investigate further like secondary inspection or suspect foul play when crossing.