Did you know that about 160 million Americans hold a valid passport? September is Passport Awareness Month—a perfect time to discover why your passport is more than just a travel document. From being the most accepted ID worldwide to the tech that keeps your identity safe, there’s more to the booklet than meets the eye:

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1. The Six-Month Rule

Many countries require that your passport be valid for at least six months beyond your planned departure date—to ensure that travelers don’t run into issues if they face unexpected delays or must extend their stay. It also protects countries from visitors whose passports might expire during their trip, leaving them stranded or unable to reenter the U.S.

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2. The Most Accepted Form of ID

A passport is the most universally recognized form of identification worldwide. Unlike driver's licenses or other forms of identification, a passport proves both identity and citizenship—making it essential for international travel and legal and financial processes in many countries. Even with domestic travel, having your passport on hand can be a lifesaver if other forms of ID are lost or unavailable.

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3. Enhanced Security

Most modern passports have an embedded microchip, known as an ePassport. This chip stores biometric information such as your photo, name, date of birth, and passport number. It adds an extra layer of security, makes it difficult to alter the document, and also speeds up processing times at automated border controls—ensuring smoother travel experiences.

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4. Countries and Colors

Passports come in four main colors: red, blue, green, and black. The color often reflects political or geographical affiliations. For example, many European Union countries have burgundy passports, while the U.S. and 83 other countries use blue—the most common passport color.

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5. Pages with Purpose

Every stamp, visa, and entry mark in your passport tells the story of where you've been, but the pages in your passport have a purpose beyond just stamping. The number of pages in a passport can vary, but some countries (including the U.S.) allow travelers to get additional pages for those who frequently travel. The U.S. passport even features hidden artwork and security features only visible under UV light, making it more challenging to duplicate. 

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6. Passports for Pets

Yes, even pets require proper identification! Many countries issue special pet passports or travel documents to ensure that animals meet health and vaccination requirements for international travel—helping pets travel safely with their owners all around the world.

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7. Lost or Stolen Passport? No Worries.

Losing your passport while traveling can be stressful, but many countries have systems in place to help citizens quickly obtain an emergency passport or travel document. If you’re traveling soon and need to fast-track your passport, RushMyPassport can save you time and a trip to the passport office with their expedited passport services—and CLEAR Plus Members save 15%.

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8. Your Passport: The Best Travel Companion

Store your passport and keep it on hand in the CLEAR App, so you’re ready for any adventure. Having your passport, even on domestic trips, ensures a stress-free journey, regardless of where you’re going. 

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