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WASHINGTON — The U.S. State Department has unveiled a special commemorative passport design to mark the 250th anniversary of American independence, featuring a prominent portrait of President Donald Trump and his gold-printed signature.
The new “America250” passports will be issued in a limited run beginning this summer. Unlike standard U.S. passports, these commemorative versions include distinctive patriotic artwork on the inside pages. A large image of Trump, taken from his second inauguration, appears superimposed over text from the Declaration of Independence and elements of the American flag. Below the portrait is Trump’s signature rendered in gold lettering.
Additional design elements include an illustration of the Founding Fathers signing the Declaration of Independence. The passport cover features “United States of America” printed boldly in gold at the top and “Passport” at the bottom — a reversal of the standard layout — along with a “250” motif on the back referencing the 1777 American flag.
This marks the first time a living president’s image has been incorporated into U.S. passports. The limited-edition documents will be available at no extra cost. They are expected to serve as the default option for in-person renewals at the Washington, D.C., passport agency where feasible. Only an estimated 25,000 to 30,000 of these special passports will be produced.
Security features remain identical to those in regular passports, ensuring no compromise in travel document integrity. Regular U.S. passports will continue to be issued with their existing designs for the vast majority of applicants.
The commemorative passports are part of broader America250 celebrations, which have included other items featuring Trump’s likeness or signature, such as coins and currency notes. The rollout was announced on April 28, 2026, and has drawn significant attention as a symbolic nod to the nation’s semiquincentennial.
Applicants seeking the special edition should check availability through official State Department channels as distribution begins.
