Yes, you can open a bank account with a passport as your primary ID
Most banks in the United States will accept a valid passport as proof of identity when you open an account. A passport is a government-issued photo ID, which is what banks need to verify who you are. You do not need a driver's license or state ID card — a passport alone is sufficient at most institutions.
The catch is that some banks have additional requirements beyond just showing your ID. Many will ask for a second form of identification, proof of your current address, or both. A few banks have restrictions on which types of passports they accept, particularly if your passport is from outside the United States or if it has expired.
The process and requirements vary by bank, so calling ahead or checking the bank's website before you go in saves you a trip if they need something you do not have with you.
Key Takeaways
- A valid U.S. passport is accepted as primary identification at most banks to open a checking or savings account.
- Many banks require a second form of ID or proof of address in addition to your passport, so confirm requirements before visiting.
- An expired passport may not be accepted, even though it is still a valid travel document — ask the bank first.
- Foreign passports are sometimes accepted but often require additional documentation like a visa or work permit.
What banks typically ask for when you bring a passport
When you walk into a bank with a passport, the teller or account representative will ask for your passport and usually one or two other pieces of information. The second item is most often proof of your current address — a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or government mail with your name and address on it. The document usually needs to be recent, typically from the last 30 to 90 days, though this varies by bank.
Some banks also ask for a second photo ID. This could be a driver's license, state ID card, military ID, or even a school ID if it has your photo. If you do not have a second photo ID, many banks will accept a non-photo document instead, such as a Social Security card, birth certificate, or tax return.
A few banks have stricter policies and require both a second photo ID and proof of address. Call the specific bank branch before you go, or check their website under "opening an account" or "required documents" to see what they need.
Expired passports and whether banks will accept them
An expired passport is generally not accepted as primary identification for opening a bank account, even though you can still use it for domestic travel. Banks treat an expired passport the same way they treat an expired driver's license — it is no longer valid proof of identity for their purposes. The bank's compliance rules require current, unexpired government ID.
If your passport has expired, bring a different form of ID instead. A state driver's license, state ID card, or military ID will work. If you do not have any current photo ID, you will need to renew your passport before opening the account, or use a different form of identification if the bank accepts it.
Check with your specific bank first. A small number of banks have made exceptions for expired passports if you can show proof that you have applied for renewal, but this is uncommon and not may provide.
Opening an account with a foreign passport
Banks in the United States can open accounts for people with foreign passports, but the process is more complicated and requirements vary widely. Some large national banks accept foreign passports routinely. Others require additional documentation such as a U.S. visa, work permit, or Social Security number. A few banks decline to open accounts for non-U.S. citizens altogether, or only for certain nationalities.
If you have a foreign passport, call the bank ahead of time and ask whether they open accounts for non-citizens and what documents you will need to bring. Have your passport, proof of address in the United States, and any visa or work authorization documents with you. Some banks may also ask for a reference letter from an employer or a copy of your lease.
Credit unions sometimes have different policies than banks and may be more flexible with foreign passport holders. If a bank turns you down, ask whether they can refer you to a credit union or another institution that does accept foreign passports.
What happens if you do not have your passport with you
If you arrive at the bank without your passport, the bank will not open your account that day. You will need to go home, get your passport, and return. Some banks allow you to start the application online or over the phone and complete it in person later, but you will still need to show your passport in person before the account is active.
A few online-only banks have different processes and may allow you to upload a photo of your passport instead of showing it in person. If you are opening an account with an online bank, check their website to see whether they accept remote verification. Traditional brick-and-mortar banks almost always require you to appear in person with your ID.
Alternatives if your passport is not accepted
If a bank will not accept your passport for any reason — because it is expired, because you are a foreign national and they have restrictions, or because of their specific policies — you have other options. A state driver's license or state ID card is accepted at virtually every bank. If you do not have either, a military ID, tribal ID, or passport card (the wallet-sized version) will work at most institutions.
If you have none of these, some banks will open an account using a combination of non-photo documents, such as a birth certificate, Social Security card, and proof of address. This process takes longer and may require a manager's approval, but it is possible. Call ahead and ask whether the bank offers this option.
Credit unions often have more flexible ID policies than banks, particularly for members who have been referred by an existing member. If you know someone who banks at a credit union, ask whether they can introduce you or provide a referral.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to renew my passport before opening a bank account if it expires soon?
No, as long as your passport has not expired yet, the bank will accept it. An expiration date in the future means the passport is still valid. However, if your passport expires within a few months, consider bringing a second form of ID as backup in case the bank has concerns.
Can I open a joint account with my spouse using only my passport?
No. Both account holders must provide their own ID. Your spouse will need to bring their passport, driver's license, or other government-issued photo ID. The bank will verify both people's identities before opening a joint account.
What if the bank says my passport is not acceptable?
Ask the bank why — it may be because it is expired, because they have restrictions on foreign passports, or because of their specific policy. Ask what other forms of ID they do accept, and bring one of those instead. If the bank still refuses, try a different bank or credit union.
Do I need to bring my original passport or can I bring a copy?
You must bring your original passport. Banks will not accept a photocopy or a scanned image. The teller needs to see the actual document to verify the security features and confirm it is genuine.
Can I open a bank account online using a photo of my passport?
Some online-only banks allow you to upload a photo of your passport during the account setup process. Traditional banks that have physical branches almost always require you to visit in person and show your original passport. Check the bank's website or call to confirm their process before you start.