What To Know
- A passport card, also known as a Passport Book Card, is a smaller, wallet-sized version of the traditional passport book.
- In some states, it can be used as an alternative to a driver’s license for identification purposes.
- Passport cards are best suited for land and sea travel within the United States, Canada, Mexico, and the Caribbean, as well as driving within the United States.
The Real ID Act, passed in 2005, has been a source of confusion for many travelers. One common question is whether the passport card is a Real ID. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the ins and outs of the passport card, its Real ID status, and its advantages.
What is a Passport Card?
A passport card, also known as a Passport Book Card, is a smaller, wallet-sized version of the traditional passport book. It is designed for quick and convenient travel within the United States, Canada, Mexico, and the Caribbean.
Is Passport Card Real ID?
No, passport cards are not Real ID compliant. This means that they cannot be used for domestic air travel or to enter certain federal buildings that require Real ID-compliant identification.
Why is the Passport Card Not Real ID?
The passport card does not meet all the security requirements outlined in the Real ID Act. These requirements include:
- Digital photo
- Machine-readable information
- Tamper-resistant security features
- Proof of identity and citizenship
Benefits of a Passport Card
Despite not being Real ID compliant, the passport card offers several advantages:
- Convenience: It is smaller and easier to carry than a passport book.
- Quick Travel: It allows for quick and easy border crossings with neighboring countries.
- Driving License Alternative: In some states, it can be used as an alternative to a driver’s license for identification purposes.
- International Travel: It can be used for travel to certain countries that do not require a passport book.
When to Use a Passport Card
The passport card is best suited for:
- Land and sea travel within the United States, Canada, Mexico, and the Caribbean
- Driving within the United States
- As an alternative identification document in some states
- International travel to countries that accept passport cards
When to Use a Passport Book
A passport book is required for:
- International air travel
- Entering certain federal buildings that require Real ID-compliant identification
- Establishing identity and citizenship for official purposes
Alternatives to the Passport Card
If you need a Real ID-compliant document for domestic air travel or other purposes, you can consider the following alternatives:
- Real ID Driver’s License: Many states now issue Real ID-compliant driver’s licenses.
- Real ID Card: Some states also offer standalone Real ID cards.
- Passport Book: The traditional passport book is always Real ID-compliant.
What You Need to Learn
1. Can I use a passport card to fly domestically within the United States?
No, passport cards are not Real ID compliant and cannot be used for domestic air travel.
2. Why is the passport card not Real ID compliant?
The passport card does not meet all the security requirements outlined in the Real ID Act.
3. Can I use a passport card to enter federal buildings?
No, passport cards are not Real ID compliant and cannot be used to enter certain federal buildings that require Real ID-compliant identification.
4. What are the benefits of a passport card?
Passport cards offer convenience, quick travel, and can be used as an alternative identification document in some states.
5. When should I use a passport card?
Passport cards are best suited for land and sea travel within the United States, Canada, Mexico, and the Caribbean, as well as driving within the United States.
6. When should I use a passport book?
Passport books are required for international air travel, entering certain federal buildings, and establishing identity and citizenship for official purposes.
