What To Know
- Whether it’s for upcoming international travel or simply to upgrade your travel document, switching to a passport book is a straightforward process.
- In this guide, we will provide all the necessary information on how to switch from a passport card to a book, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free experience.
- Can I renew my passport card and switch to a passport book at the same time.
Are you considering transitioning from a passport card to a passport book? Whether it’s for upcoming international travel or simply to upgrade your travel document, switching to a passport book is a straightforward process. In this guide, we will provide all the necessary information on how to switch from a passport card to a book, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free experience.
Eligibility for a Passport Book
To be eligible for a passport book, you must meet the following criteria:
- Be a U.S. citizen
- Be at least 16 years of age (or under 16 with parental consent)
Steps to Switch from Passport Card to Book
1. Gather Required Documents:
- Original passport card
- Completed passport book application form (DS-11)
- Two recent passport-style photographs
- Proof of U.S. citizenship (e.g., birth certificate, naturalization certificate)
- Proof of identity (e.g., driver’s license, state ID card)
2. Complete the Passport Book Application:
- Download and fill out the passport book application form (DS-11) from the U.S. Department of State website.
- Ensure all information is accurate and legible.
3. Submit Documents and Fees:
- Mail or hand-deliver the completed application, original passport card, and supporting documents to a passport acceptance facility.
- Pay the applicable passport book fee.
4. Processing Time:
- Standard processing time for a passport book is 4-6 weeks.
- Expedited processing is available for an additional fee, reducing the processing time to 2-3 weeks.
5. Passport Book Issuance:
- Once your application is approved, you will receive your new passport book by mail.
- The passport book will be valid for 10 years (or 5 years for minors under 16).
Advantages of a Passport Book
- International Travel: A passport book is required for travel to most international destinations.
- Enhanced Security: Passport books contain advanced security features, making them more difficult to counterfeit.
- Visa Pages: A passport book provides more space for visa stamps and annotations.
- Additional Benefits: Passport books may offer additional benefits, such as access to expedited security lines and priority boarding for flights.
Considerations for Switching
- Cost: A passport book is more expensive than a passport card.
- Validity: Passport books expire after 10 years, while passport cards expire after 10 years from the date of issuance.
- Size and Convenience: Passport cards are smaller and more convenient to carry than passport books.
When to Switch to a Passport Book
- If you frequently travel internationally
- If you require additional visa pages
- If you want enhanced security features
- If you prefer the larger size and additional benefits of a passport book
Top Questions Asked
1. Can I renew my passport card and switch to a passport book at the same time?
Yes, you can apply for a passport book while renewing your passport card. However, you will need to pay separate fees for each application.
2. What happens to my passport card after I switch to a passport book?
Your passport card will be canceled and returned to you with your new passport book.
3. Can I use my passport card as a form of identification within the United States?
Yes, a passport card is a valid form of identification within the United States. However, it is not accepted for international travel.
4. How long is the passport book valid for?
A passport book is valid for 10 years for adults and 5 years for minors under 16.
5. Can I apply for a passport book online?
No, passport book applications must be submitted in person or by mail.
6. What is the difference between a passport book and a passport card?
A passport book is a traditional passport that contains multiple pages for visa stamps and annotations. A passport card is a smaller, wallet-sized document that is only valid for land and sea travel to Canada, Mexico, Bermuda, and the Caribbean.
7. How do I know if I am eligible for a passport book?
You must be a U.S. citizen and at least 16 years of age (or under 16 with parental consent) to be eligible for a passport book.
8. What are the fees for a passport book?
The fees for a passport book vary depending on age and expedited processing options. Check the U.S. Department of State website for current fees.
9. Where can I find a passport acceptance facility?
Passport acceptance facilities are located in post offices, libraries, and other designated locations. You can find a list of passport acceptance facilities on the U.S. Department of State website.
10. What should I do if I lose my passport book?
Report the lost passport immediately to the U.S. Passport Agency. You will need to apply for a new passport and provide proof of your identity and citizenship.
