What To Know
- As a passport holder, you’re eligible to apply for a passport card, which offers similar benefits to a passport but in a smaller and less expensive form.
- Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or a longer adventure, a passport card offers a compact and cost-effective solution for your travel needs.
- How do I know if I need a passport card or a passport book for my trip.
If you’re an avid traveler seeking a convenient and compact travel document, a passport card might be the perfect addition to your arsenal. As a passport holder, you’re eligible to apply for a passport card, which offers similar benefits to a passport but in a smaller and less expensive form. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into the nuances of obtaining a passport card while already possessing a passport.
Eligibility for a Passport Card
To be eligible for a passport card, you must:
- Be a U.S. citizen
- Be 16 years of age or older
- Have a valid U.S. passport
Benefits of a Passport Card
A passport card offers several advantages:
- Compact and Convenient: Its smaller size makes it easy to carry and store.
- Land and Sea Travel Only: It’s valid for land and sea travel to Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Bermuda.
- Less Expensive: The application fee for a passport card is lower than that of a passport.
- Quick Processing Time: Passport cards are typically processed faster than passports.
How to Apply for a Passport Card
To apply for a passport card, you can:
- Apply Online: Visit the U.S. Department of State’s website to fill out and submit the DS-11 application form.
- Apply by Mail: Download and complete the DS-11 application form, then mail it to the National Passport Processing Center.
Required Documents:
- Completed DS-11 application form
- Two recent passport-style photos
- Payment for the application fee
Processing Time and Fees
The processing time for a passport card varies depending on the method of application:
- Online: 4-6 weeks
- Mail: 6-8 weeks
The application fee for a passport card is currently $65.
Using a Passport Card
Once you receive your passport card, you can use it for:
- Crossing land and sea borders with Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Bermuda
- Boarding cruise ships that depart from U.S. ports and make stops at these destinations
- Identifying yourself at federal agencies and other locations that require proof of U.S. citizenship
Limitations:
- A passport card is not valid for air travel.
- It does not replace a passport for international travel to other destinations.
Renewing a Passport Card
Passport cards expire 10 years from the date of issuance. To renew your passport card, you can follow the same application process as outlined above.
Replacing a Lost or Stolen Passport Card
If your passport card is lost or stolen, you must report it to the National Passport Information Center and apply for a replacement.
Alternatives to a Passport Card
If you frequently travel internationally, a passport book may be a more suitable option. A passport book is valid for all types of travel, including air travel.
The Bottom Line: Embark on Your Journeys with Ease
With a passport card in hand, you can navigate land and sea borders with ease and convenience. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or a longer adventure, a passport card offers a compact and cost-effective solution for your travel needs.
Popular Questions
Q: Can I apply for a passport card and a passport book at the same time?
A: Yes, you can apply for both documents simultaneously.
Q: What is the difference between a passport card and a passport book?
A: A passport card is smaller and less expensive than a passport book and is only valid for land and sea travel to specific destinations. A passport book is valid for all types of travel, including air travel.
Q: How do I know if I need a passport card or a passport book for my trip?
A: If you’re traveling by land or sea to Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, or Bermuda, a passport card is sufficient. For all other international travel, a passport book is required.
