What To Know
- A passport card is a smaller, more convenient version of a traditional passport book.
- If you frequently travel by land or sea to Canada, Mexico, Bermuda, or the Caribbean, a passport card could be a convenient and cost-effective option.
- However, if you travel internationally by air or need a travel document that is widely accepted, a passport book is a better choice.
Is a passport card worth it? It’s a question that many travelers ask themselves. The answer depends on your individual travel needs and preferences. In this blog post, we’ll explore the pros and cons of getting a passport card to help you make an informed decision.
What is a Passport Card?
A passport card is a smaller, more convenient version of a traditional passport book. It’s designed to be used for land and sea travel between the United States, Canada, Mexico, Bermuda, and the Caribbean. Passport cards are not valid for air travel.
Advantages of a Passport Card
1. Convenience: Passport cards are much smaller and easier to carry than passport books. They fit easily into a wallet or pocket, making them ideal for quick trips.
2. Reduced Risk of Loss or Theft: Passport cards are less likely to be lost or stolen than passport books. They’re also more difficult to counterfeit.
3. No Need for a Visa: Passport cards allow you to travel to Canada, Mexico, Bermuda, and the Caribbean without the need for a visa.
Disadvantages of a Passport Card
1. Limited Use: Passport cards are only valid for land and sea travel between the United States and certain neighboring countries. They cannot be used for air travel.
2. Not as Widely Accepted: Passport cards are not as widely accepted as passport books. Some businesses and government agencies may not recognize them as valid identification.
3. Expiration Date: Passport cards expire after 10 years, while passport books expire after 5 years.
Is a Passport Card Worth It for You?
Whether or not a passport card is worth it for you depends on your individual travel needs. If you frequently travel by land or sea to Canada, Mexico, Bermuda, or the Caribbean, a passport card could be a convenient and cost-effective option. However, if you travel internationally by air or need a travel document that is widely accepted, a passport book is a better choice.
Other Factors to Consider
1. Cost: Passport cards cost $65 for adults and $45 for children under 16. Passport books cost $165 for adults and $135 for children under 16.
2. Time to Obtain: Passport cards typically take 4-6 weeks to process, while passport books can take 6-8 weeks.
3. Renewal: Passport cards expire after 10 years, while passport books expire after 5 years.
When to Get a Passport Card
A passport card is a good option if you:
- Frequently travel by land or sea to Canada, Mexico, Bermuda, or the Caribbean
- Want a convenient and easy-to-carry travel document
- Are concerned about losing or having your passport stolen
- Don’t need a travel document that is valid for air travel
When to Get a Passport Book
A passport book is a better choice if you:
- Travel internationally by air
- Need a travel document that is widely accepted
- Want a travel document with a longer expiration date
- Need a document for official purposes, such as applying for a visa or entering a foreign country
What You Need to Learn
1. Is a passport card valid for air travel?
No, passport cards are not valid for air travel.
2. Can I get a passport card and a passport book?
Yes, you can have both a passport card and a passport book.
3. How long does it take to get a passport card?
Passport cards typically take 4-6 weeks to process.
4. How much does a passport card cost?
Passport cards cost $65 for adults and $45 for children under 16.
5. Where can I use a passport card?
Passport cards can be used for land and sea travel between the United States, Canada, Mexico, Bermuda, and the Caribbean.
6. Is a passport card safe?
Yes, passport cards are safe. They are less likely to be lost or stolen than passport books and are more difficult to counterfeit.
