What Is a U.S. Passport Card?
The U.S. Passport Card is a government-issued ID that allows U.S. citizens to re-enter the United States from Canada, Mexico, Bermuda, and the Caribbean by land or sea. Unlike the passport book, it cannot be used for international air travel. Buy a usa passport card.
It’s designed to be a compact, affordable alternative for travelers who don’t need full global travel access.
🌍 Where Can You Use the U.S. Passport Card?
You can use the passport card for:
- Land border crossings from Canada and Mexico
- Sea ports-of-entry from the Caribbean and Bermuda
- Domestic identification, including TSA checkpoints
Not Valid For:
- Flying internationally
- Travel outside North America and select nearby regions
Border Crossing at U.S.-Mexico
✅ Benefits of the U.S. Passport Card
Here’s why many travelers opt for the card:
- Compact and wallet-sized — like a driver’s license
- Affordable — only $30 to $65
- 10-year validity for adults
- Secure RFID technology for faster border crossing
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🆚 Passport Card vs Passport Book
| Feature | Passport Card | Passport Book |
|---|---|---|
| International Air Travel | ❌ No | ✅ Yes |
| Land/Sea Travel | ✅ Yes (Canada, Mexico, Caribbean, Bermuda) | ✅ Yes (Worldwide) |
| Size | Wallet-sized | Booklet |
| Cost (adult, first-time) | $65 | $165 |
| Validity | 10 years (adults) | 10 years (adults) |
💡 Who Should Get a Passport Card?
The U.S. passport card is ideal for:
- Frequent travelers to Mexico or Canada by car
- Cruise passengers visiting Caribbean ports
- Border town residents
- People who want a backup travel ID
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If you fly internationally, you’ll still need a passport book.
📝 How to Apply for a U.S. Passport Card
Applying for a passport card is easy. Here’s how:
For First-Time Applicants:
- Fill out Form DS-11 (available at travel.state.gov)
- Provide proof of citizenship (e.g., birth certificate)
- Submit a valid photo ID
- Include one passport-style photo
- Pay the fee: $65 (adult), $50 (child under 16)
- Apply in person at a passport acceptance facility
For Renewals:
- Use Form DS-82 if eligible
- Mail your application and photo
- Pay $30 renewal fee
💡 Tip: You can apply for both the passport card and passport book at the same time.
🔁 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I fly with a passport card?
A: No. The passport card is not valid for international air travel. You’ll need a passport book to fly internationally.
Q: Is the passport card valid for cruises?
A: Yes, if the cruise begins and ends in the U.S. and only visits eligible regions (Caribbean, Mexico, Bermuda, or Canada).
Q: Can I use the passport card as ID?
A: Yes, it’s a federally recognized ID and accepted by the TSA for domestic flights.
🧳 Final Thoughts
The U.S. Passport Card is a practical, budget-friendly option for travelers staying within North America and the Caribbean by land or sea. It’s not a full replacement for the passport book, but for certain travelers — especially cruise-goers and border residents — it’s a smart and convenient choice.