The U.S. passport card is a credit card-sized identification document. It was designed for people who travel frequently between the U.S. and Canada, Mexico, Bermuda or the Caribbean by land or sea. The passport card contains a radio frequency identification chip as well as the traditional photograph and personal information found in a passport book. The chip links your passport card to records stored in government databases; it does not contain any of your personal information.
Where Can I Travel With My Passport Card?
You can use your passport card for travel by land or sea to and from Canada, Mexico, Bermuda and the Caribbean. You cannot use the passport card for air travel, nor can you use it for travel to other international destinations. If you plan to travel by air, apply for a passport book instead.How Much Does a Passport Card Cost?
A passport card is less expensive than a traditional passport book. Your first-time passport card will cost $45 ($35 for children under 16) and will be valid for ten years (five for children). Renewals cost $20.
Can I Carry Both Types of Passports?
Yes. If you already hold a valid U.S. passport that was issued after you turned 16, you can apply for a passport card as a mail-in renewal and pay only the $20 renewal fee.
How Do I Apply for My Passport Card?
First-time passport card applicants must go in person to a passport application facility and submit a completed passport application form, proof of U.S. citizenship, two passport photos and the required fee.
You may need to make an appointment to apply for your passport card; contact your passport office for location-specific information. You'll need to give the passport official the documents you submit as proof of citizenship, but they will be returned to you by mail when your passport is issued.
You can have passport photos taken at many "big box" stores, pharmacies, AAA offices and photo studios. Some post offices also offer this service. Do not take your own photos or use a self-service photo booth; your passport application will be rejected if your photos do not meet State Department requirements.
If you choose not to provide your Social Security number on your application, you will incur a $500 fine.
When Will I Receive My Passport Card?
If you apply for standard processing, you will receive your passport card in four to six weeks. It's best to apply for your card at least ten weeks before your scheduled departure date to allow for unexpected delays in processing.
You can apply for expedited processing; it will cost you an extra $60 plus the cost of delivery (U.S. Mail or overnight service). If you choose expedited processing for a passport card renewal and submit your application by mail or overnight service, be sure to write "EXPEDITE" on the envelope. Processing and deliver take approximately two weeks.
Travelers who need passport cards in less than two weeks must make an appointment at one of the 13 Regional Passport Agency offices. Call the National Passport Information Center at1-877-487-2778 to schedule your appointment.
