General Eligibility: Most Felons CAN Obtain a Passport
A common misconception is that any felony conviction permanently revokes your right to hold a United States passport. Under federal law (22 U.S.C. 2714), most individuals with felony convictions are legally eligible to obtain a US passport once they have completed their sentence, probation, or parole.
However, specific categories of federal and state convictions result in mandatory or discretionary passport denials by the Department of State.
Convictions That Automatically Disqualify You
- International Drug Trafficking: Anyone convicted of a federal or state drug felony where an international border or passport was crossed during the offense is barred under 22 U.S.C. 2714.
- Unpaid Child Support Arrears: Arrears exceeding $2,500 trigger automated passport denials through HHS.
- Outstanding Federal or State Warrants: Active felony warrants result in immediate rejection upon biometric database cross-referencing.
- Conditions of Probation or Parole: Active probation conditions barring international travel will result in passport withholding.
How to Apply If You Have a Past Criminal Record
If your sentence and probation are fully completed and no disqualifying conditions apply, you apply using the standard Form DS-11 (for first-time passports) or Form DS-82 (for renewals). You will need proof of US citizenship (birth certificate or naturalization certificate), government photo ID, and an official 2x2 inch compliant passport photograph.