The Trump administration has unveiled a limited edition US passport bearing President Donald Trump’s portrait – the first time a living, current president has appeared on the document. The design, shared by Trump on social media on Friday, shows him with fists on the Resolute Desk, the Declaration of Independence in the background, and his signature below. “The U.S.A.’s New Passport, which says, ‘Welcome, but be good!’” Trump wrote on Truth Social, though that phrase does not appear in the images he posted.
The passport will become available on 6 July, while supplies last, the State Department said. But obtaining one is far from straightforward: Americans cannot apply online or by mail. Instead, they must schedule an in-person appointment at the passport agency in Washington DC, or attend one of two special acceptance events – both currently listed at the same agency. More events may be added.
“Trump's portrait will appear on limited-edition US passports for America's 250th birthday, available from 6 July in person only.”
The White House reshared the images on X, dubbing the document a “patriot passport”. The redesign is the latest in a series of moves by the president to mark American institutions – including federal buildings, websites, and documents – with his name or likeness. Current US passports typically depict scenes from history, such as the Moon landing, and symbols like the Statue of Liberty. It remains unclear whether citizens who apply in person can opt out of the special edition.
The commemorative passport was first announced in April with a slightly different design – Trump’s face alone, his signature in gold, and no “250” numeral. The US Mint has also announced a commemorative gold coin featuring Trump for the 250th anniversary, and Trump is set to become the first sitting president to have his signature on American banknotes. Meanwhile, his efforts to leave a permanent imprint on Washington DC have included adding his name to the Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts – later removed – and plans for a so-called Arc de Trump.