What To Know
- If there is any incorrect information on your passport card, such as your birth date or passport number, you need to apply for a replacement to correct the error.
- If you are a minor under the age of 16, you need to be accompanied by a parent or guardian when applying for a passport card replacement.
- A passport card is a wallet-sized document that is valid for land and sea travel within North America, while a passport book is a full-sized document that is required for international air travel.
Can I Replace My Passport Card Only?
Yes, you can replace your passport card only without replacing your passport book. A passport card is a convenient and less expensive alternative to a passport book, ideal for land and sea travel within North America (Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Bermuda). However, it’s important to note that passport cards are not valid for international air travel.
Reasons for Replacing a Passport Card
There are several reasons why you may need to replace your passport card:
- Lost or Stolen: If your passport card is lost or stolen, you should report it immediately to the National Passport Information Center (NPIC) and apply for a replacement.
- Damaged or Expired: If your passport card is damaged or has expired, you need to apply for a replacement to ensure its continued validity.
- Name or Gender Change: If you have legally changed your name or gender, you must update your passport card to reflect your new identity.
- Incorrect Information: If there is any incorrect information on your passport card, such as your birth date or passport number, you need to apply for a replacement to correct the error.
How to Replace a Passport Card Only
Step 1: Gather Required Documents
- Completed Form DS-82
- Original passport card
- One passport photo (2×2 inches)
- Proof of U.S. citizenship (birth certificate, naturalization certificate, etc.)
- Proof of identity (driver’s license, state ID card, etc.)
- $65 application fee (payable by check, money order, or credit card)
Step 2: Submit Your Application
You can submit your application in person at a passport acceptance facility or by mail. To find the nearest acceptance facility, visit the U.S. Department of State website. If mailing your application, send it to:
National Passport Processing Center
Post Office Box 90955
Philadelphia, PA 19190-0955
Step 3: Track Your Application
Once you submit your application, you can track its status online using the tracking number provided to you.
Processing Time
The processing time for a passport card replacement is typically 4-6 weeks. However, during peak season or due to other circumstances, it may take longer.
Expedited Processing
If you need your passport card replaced urgently, you can request expedited processing for an additional fee. Expedited processing takes approximately 2-3 weeks.
Passport Card Validity
A passport card is valid for 10 years from the date of issuance.
Lost or Stolen Passport Card
If your passport card is lost or stolen, report it immediately to the NPIC at 1-877-487-2778. You should also apply for a replacement passport card as soon as possible.
Other Considerations
- You cannot replace a passport card at a U.S. embassy or consulate abroad.
- If you are a minor under the age of 16, you need to be accompanied by a parent or guardian when applying for a passport card replacement.
- You can apply for a passport card and passport book simultaneously.
- A passport card is not required for domestic travel within the United States.
Common Questions and Answers
Q: Can I apply for a passport card and passport book at the same time?
A: Yes, you can apply for both a passport card and a passport book simultaneously.
Q: What is the difference between a passport card and a passport book?
A: A passport card is a wallet-sized document that is valid for land and sea travel within North America, while a passport book is a full-sized document that is required for international air travel.
Q: How long does it take to replace a passport card?
A: The processing time for a passport card replacement is typically 4-6 weeks, but it may take longer during peak season or due to other circumstances.
Q: Can I get a passport card if I don’t have a passport book?
A: Yes, you can apply for a passport card without having a passport book.
Q: What is the cost of replacing a passport card?
A: The application fee for a passport card replacement is $65.
Q: What documents do I need to replace my passport card?
A: You will need a completed Form DS-82, original passport card, one passport photo, proof of U.S. citizenship, proof of identity, and the application fee.
