When planning international travel, one of the first questions many Americans face is whether to get a standard passport book, a passport card, or both. While both are official U.S. government-issued travel documents, they serve different purposes and come with distinct limitations. Understanding these differences is crucial for making the right choice based on your specific travel needs.
What is a Standard Passport Book?
A standard U.S. passport book is a globally recognized travel document that proves your identity and U.S. citizenship. The navy blue booklet contains 28 pages (or 52 pages if you request the larger version) and includes your photo, personal information, and blank pages for entry and exit stamps and visas from foreign countries.
The standard passport book allows you to travel to and from all countries worldwide by any mode of transportation—air, land, or sea. It’s the most versatile travel document and is accepted at every international border, making it essential for global travelers.
What is a Passport Card?
The U.S. passport card is a wallet-sized alternative to the passport book. Introduced in 2008, this credit card-sized document displays your photo and basic identifying information. While more convenient to carry, it comes with significant limitations on where and how you can use it.
The passport card can only be used for land and sea border crossings between the United States and Canada, Mexico, Bermuda, and the Caribbean. Importantly, it cannot be used for international air travel to any destination. This restriction is the most significant limitation of the passport card.
Cost Comparison
One of the most appealing aspects of the passport card is its lower cost compared to the standard passport book:
For Adults (16 and older):
– Passport Book: $130 (application fee) + $35 (execution fee) = $165 total
– Passport Card: $30 (application fee) + $35 (execution fee) = $65 total
– Both Book and Card together: $160 (application fee) + $35 (execution fee) = $195 total
For Children (under 16):
– Passport Book: $100 (application fee) + $35 (execution fee) = $135 total
– Passport Card: $15 (application fee) + $35 (execution fee) = $50 total
– Both Book and Card together: $115 (application fee) + $35 (execution fee) = $150 total
As you can see, getting both documents together offers a discount compared to applying for them separately. All fees are non-refundable, even if your application is denied.
Validity Period
Both the passport book and passport card have the same validity period:
– 10 years for adults (16 and older)
– 5 years for children (under 16)
This means you’ll need to renew either document after this period expires, regardless of how frequently you’ve used it.
Size and Convenience
The passport card’s wallet-sized format (3.5″ x 2.5″) makes it much more convenient to carry than the larger passport book. It fits easily in a wallet alongside other cards, while the passport book requires a separate holder or pocket.
However, this convenience comes at the cost of functionality, as the card cannot be used for all types of international travel.
Security Features
Both the passport book and card contain RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) chips that store your personal information. These chips include the same data that’s printed on the document but cannot be tracked from a distance. The passport card’s RFID chip can be read from up to 30 feet away, which helps expedite land border crossings.
Both documents also include numerous security features to prevent counterfeiting, such as special inks, microprinting, and holographic images.
Making the Right Choice
When deciding between a passport book and card, consider these factors:
1. Travel Destinations: If you plan to travel internationally by air to any destination, you must have a passport book. The passport card is only useful for land and sea travel to Canada, Mexico, Bermuda, and the Caribbean.
2. Travel Frequency: If you frequently cross the border to Canada or Mexico by car, having a passport card in addition to your book can be convenient.
3. Emergency Preparedness: Even if you primarily travel to destinations where a passport card is accepted, having a passport book ensures you’re prepared for unexpected air travel or visits to other countries.
4. Budget Considerations: If cost is a significant factor and you only plan to travel to neighboring countries by land or sea, the passport card offers substantial savings.
5. Identification Needs: Both the passport book and card are considered REAL ID compliant and can be used for domestic air travel and entering federal facilities, which may be useful if your state driver’s license is not REAL ID compliant.
Best Practices for Most Travelers
For most travelers, the standard passport book is the recommended choice due to its universal acceptance and flexibility. If you can afford it, applying for both the book and card together offers the best value and maximum flexibility.
If you live near the Canadian or Mexican border and frequently cross by land, having the passport card as a supplement to your passport book can be convenient for daily or weekly crossings.
Remember that processing times can vary, so apply well in advance of your planned travel dates. Standard processing typically takes 6-8 weeks, while expedited service (for an additional fee) can reduce this to 2-3 weeks.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use my passport card for cruises?
Yes, you can use a passport card for “closed-loop” cruises (cruises that begin and end at the same U.S. port) that visit Canada, Mexico, Bermuda, or the Caribbean. However, if you need to fly back to the U.S. due to an emergency, you would need a passport book. For this reason, cruise lines strongly recommend bringing a passport book even on closed-loop cruises.
Is a passport card the same as a REAL ID?
While both are accepted for domestic air travel and entering federal facilities, they are different documents. A passport card is a federal document that also serves as proof of U.S. citizenship, while a REAL ID is a state-issued driver’s license or identification card that meets enhanced security standards.
Can children get a passport card?
Yes, children of any age can get a passport card. The application process requires both parents or legal guardians to authorize the application, with some exceptions for single parents or special circumstances.
How do I apply for a passport book or card?
First-time applicants must apply in person at a passport acceptance facility with Form DS-11, proof of U.S. citizenship, identification, a photo, and the applicable fees. You can find the nearest acceptance facility using the State Department’s online locator tool.
What if my passport book or card is lost or stolen?
Report it immediately to the State Department through their website or by calling 1-877-487-2778. You’ll need to apply for a replacement in person using Form DS-11 and pay the applicable fees again.
Can I track my passport application status?
Yes, you can check your application status online at the State Department’s website or by calling the National Passport Information Center. You’ll need your last name, date of birth, and the last four digits of your Social Security number.
Is it worth getting both a passport book and card?
For frequent international travelers, having both offers maximum flexibility. The card serves as a convenient backup ID and can be used for routine border crossings, while the book ensures you’re never limited in your travel options.