What To Know
- If you already possess a valid passport book, acquiring a passport card is a convenient way to enhance your travel options.
- A passport card is a smaller, more compact version of a passport book that serves as an acceptable form of identification at land and sea border crossings with Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Bermuda.
- This blog post will provide a comprehensive guide on how to get a passport card after your passport book.
If you already possess a valid passport book, acquiring a passport card is a convenient way to enhance your travel options. A passport card is a smaller, more compact version of a passport book that serves as an acceptable form of identification at land and sea border crossings with Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Bermuda. This blog post will provide a comprehensive guide on how to get a passport card after your passport book.
Requirements for Passport Card Application
To apply for a passport card, you must meet the following requirements:
- Be a U.S. citizen
- Be at least 16 years old
- Have a valid passport book that is not expired or damaged
- Provide proof of identity and citizenship, such as a birth certificate or naturalization certificate
Application Process
Step 1: Gather Required Documents
Gather the following documents:
- Completed Form DS-11
- Valid passport book
- Proof of identity and citizenship
- Two passport-style photos
- Application fee
Step 2: Submit Application
You can submit your application by mail or in person at a passport acceptance facility. Find the nearest facility here: https://iafdb.travel.state.gov/
Step 3: Processing Time
The processing time for a passport card is typically 4-6 weeks. However, it may take longer during peak travel seasons.
Step 4: Receive Passport Card
Once your application is approved, you will receive your passport card by mail.
Benefits of a Passport Card
- Convenient: Smaller and easier to carry than a passport book.
- Quick and easy to obtain: Application process is less complex than for a passport book.
- Valid for land and sea crossings: Accepted at border crossings with Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Bermuda.
- Complements passport book: Provides an alternative form of identification for quick cross-border trips.
Restrictions and Limitations
- Not valid for air travel: Cannot be used for international air travel.
- Limited geographical scope: Only valid for land and sea crossings with specific countries.
- Not as widely accepted: May not be accepted as identification for all purposes.
Common Questions and Answers
Q: Can I use my passport card instead of my passport book?
A: Yes, you can use your passport card for land and sea crossings with Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Bermuda. However, you must carry your passport book for air travel.
Q: How long is a passport card valid for?
A: A passport card is valid for 10 years.
Q: What if my passport card is lost or stolen?
A: Report the lost or stolen card immediately to the National Passport Information Center at 1-877-487-2778. You will need to apply for a new passport card.
Q: Can I expedite the application process for a passport card?
A: Yes, you can expedite the application process by paying an additional fee. The processing time will be reduced to 2-3 weeks.
Q: Where can I find more information about passport cards?
A: Visit the official U.S. Department of State website at https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/passports/passport-cards.
