| Generally, the US government allows citizens to carry | | | | country's embassy to apply for a visa, and you need |
| only one valid passport at a time. However, if you are | | | | to travel overseas before it will be returned to you. |
| a frequent international traveler, one passport may not | | | | To apply for a second passport, fill out passport |
| be enough. If you can demonstrate a need for it, you | | | | renewal application form DS-82, and send it in along |
| can actually apply for a second valid US passport. | | | | with your current passport, 2 passport photos and the |
| Applications for a second valid passport are | | | | appropriate fees. You must also include a signed letter |
| considered on a case-by-case basis. The Department | | | | stating why you need a duplicate passport. If the |
| of State only issues them if you have a good reason | | | | duplicate passport is required for a business trip, you |
| for asking. The two most common reasons for | | | | should also submit a letter from your company or |
| requesting a second valid US passport are as follows: | | | | organization to confirm the details of the trip and why |
| 1.You have visa stamps on your existing passport | | | | a duplicate passport is needed. |
| which prevent you from traveling to another country | | | | If issued, duplicate passports are valid for a period of |
| that you wish to visit. For example, some countries in | | | | two years only. If one passport is lost or stolen, you |
| the Middle East will not allow you to enter if you have | | | | must report it to the government immediately, even |
| an Israeli visa stamp on your passport. | | | | though you will still have a passport to travel on. |
| 2.You have sent your passport away to another | | | | |