Can I use a passport card to fly to Mexico?

No. Passport cards only work for land and sea crossings. You need a passport book to fly internationally, including to Mexico.

How long does my passport need to be valid?

Mexico only requires your passport be valid for the duration of your stay. Unlike some countries, they don't require 6 months remaining validity.

Can I renew my expired passport for Mexico travel?

If your passport expired more than 5 years ago or you were under 16 when it was issued, you must apply as a first-time applicant with Form DS-11 in person.

What if I need a passport in less than 2 weeks?

Make an appointment at a regional passport agency. You'll need proof of international travel within 14 days. Agencies are in major cities and can issue same-day passports for emergencies.

Do children need their own passport for Mexico?

Yes. Every person, including infants, needs their own passport book to fly internationally. Children under 16 use a different application process and both parents typically must be present.

How to Get a Passport for Mexico Travel

You need a valid passport book to fly to Mexico and back to the US. Apply at a post office or passport agency with Form DS-11, proof of citizenship, photo ID, passport photo, and $130-165 fee. Processing takes 6-8 weeks for routine service or 2-3 weeks expedited.

Gather required documents. Collect proof of US citizenship (certified birth certificate or naturalization certificate), government-issued photo ID (driver's license), one passport photo (2x2 inches), and completed Form DS-11. Download the form from travel.state.gov or pick up at application location.
Get passport photos taken. Visit CVS, Walgreens, Costco, or UPS Store for passport photos. Costs $10-15. Must be taken within 6 months of application. Avoid photos from phone apps - acceptance offices often reject them.
Find an acceptance facility. Most post offices accept passport applications. Use the State Department's facility search tool online. Larger offices typically don't require appointments, but call ahead to confirm hours and avoid lines.
Submit application in person. Bring all documents and pay fees. Passport book costs $130 ($100 application + $30 execution fee). First-time applicants must apply in person - you cannot mail Form DS-11.
Choose processing speed. Routine processing takes 6-8 weeks ($130 total). Expedited service takes 2-3 weeks for additional $60 ($190 total). Add $18.32 for 1-2 day return shipping if needed quickly.
Track your application. Use the tracking system at travel.state.gov with your last name, date of birth, and last 4 digits of Social Security number. You'll receive your passport by mail to the address on your application.

Can I use a passport card to fly to Mexico?: No. Passport cards only work for land and sea crossings. You need a passport book to fly internationally, including to Mexico.
How long does my passport need to be valid?: Mexico only requires your passport be valid for the duration of your stay. Unlike some countries, they don't require 6 months remaining validity.
Can I renew my expired passport for Mexico travel?: If your passport expired more than 5 years ago or you were under 16 when it was issued, you must apply as a first-time applicant with Form DS-11 in person.
What if I need a passport in less than 2 weeks?: Make an appointment at a regional passport agency. You'll need proof of international travel within 14 days. Agencies are in major cities and can issue same-day passports for emergencies.
Do children need their own passport for Mexico?: Yes. Every person, including infants, needs their own passport book to fly internationally. Children under 16 use a different application process and both parents typically must be present.