Take a Look at the Next Generation US Passports

Take a Look at the Next Generation US Passports

If you are getting a new passport, or renewing it this year, then you should expect to receive the upgraded Next Generation Passport book with upgraded security features and some other changes.

The new passport is a modernized U.S. passport book the State Department says. While the previous electronic passports (ePassports) are secure, the Next Generation Passport book (NGP) uses new technologies to produce a more robust passport with enhanced security features, such as a polycarbonate data page, laser-engraved personalization, and updated artwork.

For now the NGP is only available for passport books. The State Department will soon upgrade and modernize the passport card as well.

Visually, the most noticeable changes to the new passport book are the polycarbonate data page and the location of the endorsement page, which now on now page 3. Visa pages have also been updated with detailed linework and ink colors that showcase imagery of U.S. architecture, history, culture, landscapes, and traditions.

The standard size of the Next Generation Passport is 26 pages. If you’re reading this article, then you probably need to choose the larger, 50-page book when you apply. The ePassport has 28 pages in the regular-sized book and 52 pages in the larger book.

The passport number in the new NGP book begins with a letter, followed by eight numbers. It is located in the top right corner of your data page and is included throughout the NGP book on the bottom of each page. The ePassport number has nine numbers.

The release of the the Next Generation Passport books doesn’t affect current passport books and cards. They will remain valid for international travel until their date of expiration. You may continue to travel with your current ePassport book or card without a problem.

When can you get the new passport? There is no set date. The State Department says it is gradually replacing existing ePassport printers with NGP printers at passport agencies and centers. That means that for now you have a 50/50 chance of getting one.

Disclosure: Miles to Memories has partnered with CardRatings for our coverage of credit card products. Miles to Memories and CardRatings may receive a commission from card issuers.

---

 Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card is the old king of travel rewards cards. Right now bonus_miles_full

Learn more about this card and its features!

---

Opinions, reviews, analyses & recommendations are the author’s alone, and have not been reviewed, endorsed or approved by any of these entities.