U.S. Passport Cards vs. U.S. Passport Books

Have you seen the little credit card size U.S. Passport Card? I just had an interesting conversation with a friend the other day where she wanted to know what the passport cards are all about?

Annie: I saw someone without the “book” version, but I saw a credit card like version? What is it?

Carolyn: Yes, that’s the U.S. Passport Card but its not for international air travel though- “The U.S. Passport Card can be used to enter the United States from Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Bermuda at land border crossings or sea ports-of-entry and is more convenient and less expensive than a passport book. The passport card cannot be used for international travel by air.”

Annie: Why was the U.S. Passport Card created?

Carolyn: The passport card was designed to address the specific travel needs of the northern and southern U.S. border communities with residents that cross the border frequently by land. Its also very popular with travelers who take cruises to these destinations.

Annie: My U.S. Passport expires in May and I am about to renew… Can I apply for the passport card and passport book at the same time using the same application?

Carolyn: Yes, you simply check the box at the top of the form to indicate that you would like to apply for both products. If you already have a passport book and are eligible to use Form DS-82, you may apply for your new passport card by mail using Form DS-82. You may renew your passport book at the same time using the same form. Both the U.S. Passport Book and U.S. Passport Card are valid 10 years for adults and 5 years for minors under the age of 16.

Just to be clear- the U.S. Passport Card will not work if you FLY to Mexico, the Caribbean, Bermuda, or Canada. Its only good for boarder crossings and sea ports-of-entry. For more information, click on U.S. Passport Cards.