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Acceptable Identification at the TSA Checkpoint

Adult passengers 18 and older must show valid identification at the airport checkpoint in order to travel.

• Beginning May 7, 2025, if you plan to use your state-issued ID or license to fly within the U.S., make sure it is REAL ID compliant . If you are not sure if your ID complies with REAL ID, check with your state department of motor vehicles.  
• State-issued Enhanced Driver’s License
• U.S. passport
• U.S. passport card
• DHS trusted traveler cards (Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI, FAST)
• U.S. Department of Defense ID, including IDs issued to dependents
• Permanent resident card
• Border crossing card
• An acceptable photo ID issued by a  federally recognized , Tribal Nation/Indian Tribe
• HSPD-12 PIV card
• Foreign government-issued passport
• Canadian provincial driver's license or Indian and Northern Affairs Canada card
• Transportation worker identification credential
• U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services Employment Authorization Card (I-766)
• U.S. Merchant Mariner Credential
• Veteran Health Identification Card (VHIC)

In coordination with its DHS counterparts, TSA has identified acceptable alternate identification for use in special circumstances at the checkpoint.

A weapon permit is not an acceptable form of identification. A temporary driver's license is not an acceptable form of identification.

Beginning May 7, 2025, if you plan to use your state-issued ID or license to fly within the U.S., make sure it is REAL ID compliant . If you are not sure if your ID complies with REAL ID, check with your state department of motor vehicles.

Learn more about flying with a REAL ID .

 TSA currently accepts expired driver’s licenses or state-issued ID a year after expiration. DHS has extended the REAL ID enforcement deadline to May 7, 2025. Learn more about REAL ID on  TSA’s REAL ID  webpage.

TSA does not require children under 18 to provide identification when traveling within the United States. Contact the airline for questions regarding specific ID requirements for travelers under 18.

Forgot Your ID?

In the event you arrive at the airport without valid identification, because it is lost or at home, you may still be allowed to fly. The TSA officer may ask you to complete an identity verification process which includes collecting information such as your name, current address, and other personal information to confirm your identity. If your identity is confirmed, you will be allowed to enter the screening checkpoint. You will be subject to additional screening, to include a patdown and screening of carry-on property.

You will not be allowed to enter the security checkpoint if your identity cannot be confirmed, you choose to not provide proper identification or you decline to cooperate with the identity verification process.

TSA recommends that you arrive at least two hours in advance of your flight time.

Names With Suffixes

TSA accepts variations on suffixes on boarding passes and ID. Suffixes are not required on boarding passes. If there is a suffix on the boarding pass, and there is not one on the ID or vice versa, that is considered an acceptable variation.

If your identity cannot be verified, you will not be allowed to enter the screening checkpoint.

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The Essential Guide to U.S. Passport Cards: How to Apply and FAQs

Home » Passports » How to Obtain a U.S. Passport

For U.S. citizens looking to travel internationally by land or by sea, a U.S. passport card is a great option to consider.

The US passport card is smaller, cheaper, and more convenient than a passport book. That said, it is not for everyone. It only works for entry into certain countries via sea or land crossings.

These countries include:

• Caribbean countries

Please note that the Passport Card cannot be used for international air travel.

So, if you are planning to visit one of these destinations and do not have a valid U.S. passport already, a passport card can be a better option than a standard passport book.

Both a passport card and passport book can serve as identification that border agents can accept as proof of your American citizenship status.

So, who is it for? How do you get one? What does the card look like?

We answer these and other frequently asked questions below so you can make the best decision for your travel needs.

What is a passport card?

A passport card works the same way as the book version. It is issued by the Department of State and proves both your United States citizenship and your identity. It has a unique passport card number just like a standard book-style passport does. It features the same style photo as a traditional passport book. The cards also have expiration dates 10 years after issuance (or 5 years for minors) just like the books do.

The card is a valid passport, but it is similar in size to a credit card or driver's license. It has a radio frequency identification (RFID) chip that stores your identifying details. When a customs official scans your card, the RFID chip transmits this information.

What does the passport card look like?

The Differences Between a Passport Book and a Passport Card

Both passport cards and passport books serve the same purpose: proving your U.S. citizenship and identity.

All American citizens are required to present a valid passport to exit and re-enter the United States. A passport is used for international travel when entering, exiting, and traveling between foreign countries.

While there are similarities between the two, the table below shows the differences between a passport card and a passport book.

The main differences are:

• Size - The passport card is about the same size as a credit or debit card. Its smaller size makes it more convenient to carry than the larger book.
• Cost - It is cheaper to get passport cards than passport books. Choosing a card can be a good way to save money.
• No stamps - Unlike a traditional passport book, there is no place on the card for the colorful immigration stamps many countries issue when you go through customs.

However, a passport book is valid for all types of travel to any destination. It can be used for international air travel, land border crossings, and at international sea ports of entry.

How to Apply for a Passport Card

You apply for both a passport card and passport book using the same application form (you are not required to get both).

The process looks differently depending on whether or not you already have a valid passport book.

• If you do not already have a valid passport book, Follow this step-by-step guide to getting a new passport .
• If you do already have a valid passport book, you follow this step-by-step guide for applying for a passport renewal .

In either scenario, you can still use the help of a registered passport expediter to simplify and speed up the application timeline for your passport card.

Important Note: However you apply, be sure to check the appropriate box for a passport card on the DS-11 application form (for those applying as first-time applicants) or the DS-82 form if you are renewing an existing card or book by mail.

Passport Card Processing Times

There is no significant difference in processing time for a passport card versus a passport book.

Both can be expedited . However, some passport agencies do not expedite passport cards.

Routine processing currently takes 6 to 8 weeks .

Expedited processing currently takes 2 to 3 weeks .

If you need a passport card quickly, a reputable registered passport expediter can submit your application on your behalf. This can ensure the fastest possible processing times for your passport card and/or book application. In some cases, you can get your new card or book in as few as 24 hours .

For more on passport expediters, who they are, what they do, and how they can help you with your travel document needs, check out our Ultimate Guide to Passport Expeditors .

Click for reliable expedited passport courier service .

The Purpose of a U.S. Passport Card

Any American citizen can apply for a passport card. But, it may not be the ideal choice for everyone with international travel plans.

The purpose of the card is to make it easier for Americans who have to cross land or sea borders often. For example, many people living in border communities must cross a border frequently for work, shopping, or leisure. They must show a proper credential each time they cross. A plastic card is sturdier and easier to carry than a paper passport book.

Know that citizens still need a passport book to travel outside of North America or fly abroad. There is a good reason for this. Passport books are the international gold standard for travel ID. As such, the card was never meant to replace the book. The card is simply a convenient tool more suitable for specific use cases.

The Pros and Cons of Passport Cards

• Convenience - It's the same size as a credit card, so it fits conveniently in your wallet.
• Cost - Both the initial cost and renewal costs are lower than a passport book.
• Travel - It can be used for land or sea travel to some of the most popular destinations for Americans traveling abroad: Canada, Mexico, Bermuda, and the Caribbean.
• Identification - It can serve as an identity proof for children and non-drivers.
• Air Travel - You cannot use it for international air travel.
• Limited Use - It cannot be used to acquire travel visas or visit countries beyond those listed above.
• Limited Recognition - Not all countries recognize the passport card as an identifying document, as it is a relatively new form of identification.

Passport Card FAQs

Should you choose a passport card or a passport book.

Simply put, applying for a passport card only makes sense if you meet the following criteria:

• You do not plan to leave or enter the United States by air.
• You only plan to travel to Bermuda, Canada, Mexico, and/or the Caribbean (and no other countries).
• Both of the above apply to your anticipated plans for the next 10 years.

The card is a convenient option for those who live near U.S. borders and frequently use land border crossings for work or pleasure. In these cases, being able to keep a durable international travel credential in your wallet or purse - just as you would your license or state-issued ID - makes sense. If you plan on using a card often enough that it must always be on your person, it is worth considering.

For everyone else, the alternative is the traditional U.S. passport book. The book version comes in both a standard, 24-page version and a bigger, 52-page version for those who travel a lot.

Where can a U.S. citizen apply for a passport card?

If you are applying for a passport for the first time, you can do so at one of the 8,400 Passport Application Acceptance Facilities across the country. Most facilities require an appointment and many have limited spots available.

What documents will I need in order to apply for a passport card?

The passport card is a valid passport that is proof of the identity of the bearer. As such, the passport book and passport card follow the same application rules.

Applicants must provide documents that attest to their U.S. citizenship. The most common examples of acceptable documentation include:

A completed application and updated passport photo are also required.

If you already have a traditional passport book and you are eligible to submit Form DS-82, you may apply for a passport card as a Renewal by Mail - even if it is your first passport card!

How much does a passport card cost?

The first card for an adult costs $65, and $50 for any minor under the age of 16. This includes the $35 execution fee. These fees can be paid by money order or check. Cash and credit card payments are not accepted.

Adults who received their most recently issued passport when they were age 16 or older can apply for the card at a cost of $30, as long as their passport is still valid or has expired no more than 5 years ago.

How long does it take to receive your passport card?

This process can take from weeks to months, depending on the demand at the time that you apply.

Using first class mail or similarly fast, reliable shipping options can help reduce your turnaround time by several days.

Can a passport card be renewed?

Yes. You can renew a passport card by following the same steps you would follow to renew a passport book .

Similarly, you also have the ability to rush your passport card renewal in the same ways that you would expedite a passport book renewal.

How can a passport card application be expedited?

You can request expedited passport service when you submit the application. There is an extra fee of $60 for this service. Expedited processing can take up to 2 to 3 weeks by mail. This can save you several weeks compared to the standard wait time, but it is still a long wait for those who need to travel soon.

Applicants who need to get one quickly, but are unable to visit a regional passport agency in person, can authorize a registered expediter to submit the passport application for them. Be sure to check out our directory of the top passport expeditors for our most up-to-date recommendations.

Can a valid passport card be used as a Real ID?

How many passport cards have been issued.

This makes it a much stronger form of personal identification than some driver's licenses or other forms of state issued id.

The passport card has only been around since July 14, 2008. Only 189,560 cards were issued that year.

Just a few years later, the number of passport cards issued rose to over one million. Due to this growth, more and more questions are sent to us about this travel document.

Below are some of the most frequently asked questions we have received over the last 15+ years from our readers.

Readers' FAQs About Passport Cards

Click the links below to see the answers to questions that other visitors have submitted.

Will a passport card be sufficient for a child or adult traveling to Bahamas from the U.S.   Question: If we are traveling to Bahamas from the US, will a passport card work fine for that, and will it last for 5 years like other passports do?

Should I get a passport card for my children instead of a book when traveling on a cruise to Bahamas?   Question: We are traveling with a 4 and 2 year old on a Disney cruise. We fly from Maryland to Florida where we board our ship and sail to the Bahamas...

Passport Card in addition to Passport Book   Question: If my US passport book does not expire for 6 more years, can I complete the DS-82 for a card without renewing my passport book?

My son lost his passport card--NOT his passport. What do we need to do?   Question: My 12 year old son lost his wallet and it contained his passport card, with the passport number on it. He DID NOT lose his passport...

Can I get a passport card for my honeymoon so I don't have to pay the extra cost of a passport book?   Question: My fiance and I are planning a honeymoon, but its based on whether we will have a passport. I'd rather pay the $55 pp for the passport card ...

I have a passport card but need a passport book to travel to Barbados.   Question: I currently have a passport card that was issued in June 2009. I will be needing to get a passport book within the next couple of years so ...

Can you use the passport card instead of the passport book when traveling to Bahamas?   Question: Travel from metro Detroit to Bahamas do I need a book passport or card passport?

Can I renew a passport book that is not expired for a passport card and change the name?   Question: I will be traveling this Feb. 2011 to Mexico (cruise) and would prefer to renew my passport just in case of an emergency. I have two children...

Top 5 Questions About Expedited Passport Couriers

1. How can you get a passport when you're in a hurry? 2. What exactly does a passport expediter do? 3. Are passport expediting services legitimate? 4. How can I identify a reliable passport expeditor? 5. Is expedited passport service worth it?

You can also visit our library of articles about passport expediting .

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Real ID or Passport Card? Understanding Your Travel ID Options

• Sheldon Soper

In an ever-changing world of travel and identification requirements, understanding the difference between a Real ID and a passport card can be tricky. For instance, both a Real ID and a passport card are handy, wallet-sized forms of identification, but they each have their own, unique use cases.

This article will demystify these two types of ID cards, helping you make an informed decision on which document best matches your travel needs.

What is a Real ID?

The Real ID is a driver’s license or identification card that meets the increased security standards set by the federal government. As of May 7, 2025, it will be required for domestic air travel and entry into certain federal facilities.

Key Features:

• Issued By: State DMVs.
• Usage: Domestic flights, federal buildings, military bases.
• Validity: Generally the same as your driver’s license or state-issued ID card.

What is a Passport Card?

A passport card is a wallet-sized card that can be used to enter the United States from Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Bermuda at land border crossings or sea ports-of-entry.

A passport card cannot be used for foreign air travel. However, a valid passport card is considered an acceptable form of Real ID. This means that a passport card can be used to board domestic flights.

• Issued By: U.S. Department of State.
• Usage : Limited international travel, not valid for international air travel.
• Validity: 10 years for adults, 5 years for children under 16.

Comparing Real ID and Passport Card

Why choose a real id.

• Domestic Air Travel: Real ID will be Required for domestic flyers post-May 7, 2025. It can be used by travelers prior to this date as well.
• Convenience: Real ID combines your driver’s license and/or state identification card with federal ID requirements. Moving forward, applying for and renewing your state-issued ID will also mean you have a current Real ID.

Why Choose a Passport Card?

• Cost-Effective: Passport card fees are cheaper than a traditional passport.
• Convenience: A passport card is an easy-to-carry option If you frequently travel by land or sea to Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Bermuda.

What the Experts Say

Based on over 20 years helping American travelers with their travel document questions, our advice for those making the choice between Real ID and a passport card is as follows:

While the Real ID is sufficient for domestic-only travelers, the passport card is a cost-effective solution for certain international travelers. If you plan on traveling abroad outside the reach of a passport card, however, it’s worth getting a passport book. It’s about choosing the right tool for your travel needs both now and in the future. -U.S. Passport Service Guide

State-Specific Considerations

Different states have varying processes and timelines for issuing Real IDs. In California, for instance, the DMV has set up a streamlined process . However, in Texas, additional documentation is required .

Since the passport card is issued by the U.S. Department of State, the application process follows the same steps and timelines as a typical passport application. As such, passport card can be obtained , renewed , and even expedited just like a traditional passport book. You can even enlist the help of a registered passport expediting service to get a passport card quickly and conveniently.

For more on the differences between a passport book and a passport card, visit our comprehensive guide to passport cards .

Which is Right for You?

Choosing between a Real ID and a passport card depends on your travel habits and needs. While the Real ID is becoming the standard for domestic travel, the passport card serves a niche but vital role in international land and sea travel to specific regions.

For more helpful advice and travel tips, be sure to subscribe to our blog. Stay informed, stay prepared, and travel smart.

About the Author: For over 20 years, the U.S. Passport Service Guide team has helped hundreds of thousands of travelers with their travel document questions and shared advice about how to make traveling abroad simpler, safer, and more enjoyable.

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Table of Contents

About the passport book

About the passport card, how a passport book and passport card differ, when to get both, if you're choosing between the passport card and passport book.

For international travel, the U.S. Department of State issues two types of official government documents: the passport book and the passport card.

The main difference between a passport card and book boils down to where you can use them, what methods of transit are eligible and the cost.

It’s important to learn the difference between the two so you can choose more confidently if one (or both) are right for you.

A passport book is a small booklet available to U.S. citizens and non-citizen nationals that can be used for international travel by air, sea or land. For travelers age 16 or older at the date of issue, the books are valid for 10 years. Younger travelers are given passports that are valid for five years.

Each passport book is assigned a unique number. The first page of a passport contains your photo and personal information, including your full name, nationality, date of birth, place of birth, sex, the passport issue date and passport expiration date. The rest of the book is filled with blank pages for immigration stamps and visas. Depending on the country you’re visiting, you might be required to have two to four blank visa pages.

The standard passport book is 28 pages; however, you can request a 52-page book if you anticipate frequent international travel.

Since 2007, only electronic passports have been issued. These books contain an electronic chip that stores the information on the first page, a biometric identifier of your passport photo, a chip identification number and a digital signature.

» Learn more: The best travel credit cards right now

The passport card is also available to U.S. citizens and non-citizen nationals, but can only be used for foreign border entry by land and sea — and only in specific places. Regardless of the country you’re visiting, it’s not an accepted form of ID for international air travel. Passport cards are valid for the same durations as passport books.

The passport card fits a standard wallet card slot and contains your photo, full name, nationality, date of birth, place of birth, issue and expiration dates, plus your unique passport card number.

The card also has built-in Radio Frequency Identification which can be used in Ready Lanes at Canadian and Mexican land borders for faster entry.

» Learn more: How to save on road trips

1. Border entry method

The biggest difference between a passport book and passport card is the methods of travel that are eligible. While passport books can be used for all entry methods into an international country — whether air, land or sea — passport cards are limited to travel through land and sea borders only.

» Learn more: TSA PreCheck vs. Global Entry: Which is right for you?

2. Travel destination

Another difference between a passport book and passport card is which countries each can be used to enter.

There are no limitations for destinations where you can use your passport book. Passport cards, however, can only be used going through a land border or seaport in Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean and Bermuda. For example, if you’re planning a Mediterranean cruise, you’ll need to use a passport book. The card isn’t valid for seaport entry in Europe.

» Learn more: The complete guide to a U.S.-Canada border crossing

3. Format and size

Passport books and passport cards have physical differences. Passport books are 3.5-by-5-inch booklets with blank pages for foreign immigration stamps and visas. Although they’re pocket-sized, passport books are bulkier than passport cards, which are the size of a credit card or driver’s license.

» Learn more: How to get your first passport

Passport books are more expensive than cards. Regardless of document type, all first-time applicants must pay a $35 acceptance fee, which is included in the price.

Passport books for first-time applicants cost:

For adults (16 and older): $165.

For children (15 and under): $135.

The cost difference is stark compared to passport cards for first-time applicants:

For adults (16 and older): $65.

For children (15 and under): $50.

Acceptance fees are dropped for renewals of both the passport book and card. Travelers can expect to pay $130 to renew an adult passport book and $30 to renew an adult passport card.

The passport book is the all-encompassing identifier to carry regardless of how and where you’re traveling. You have the option to purchase a passport book and card in one application, and there are a couple of scenarios when having both passport types might be convenient, like:

If you travel equally by air and land. If you’re visiting Canada or Mexico by car, you might prefer a more compact document for traveling across the border. In that case, having a passport card for regular land-based trips would be useful. You can keep your passport book handy for international air travel.

If you don’t have a Real ID , which will be required for domestic air travel beginning in 2025. A U.S. passport — book or card — is accepted as an alternative to the Real ID, but the card is more convenient to carry around. If you’re flying domestically without a Real ID, you'll be able to use a passport card for air travel within the 50 states and reserve your passport book for international travel.

If you choose to apply for both passport options in one application rather than applying for them separately, you’ll save $35 since you’ll only pay one acceptance fee.

» Learn more: What flyers need to know about REAL ID for travel this fall and beyond

Deciding between a passport book and a passport card can feel like a difficult choice considering the cost difference and the turnaround time to get your passport application processed.

When choosing which option is best for you, consider the type of travel you’re most likely to do over the next few years. If you’re unsure about your future travel needs, a passport book might be your best option.

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What Is a US Passport Card, and How Can You Get One?

The US 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 international air travel , nor can you use it for travel to other international destinations. If you plan to travel by air or wish to visit a country other than Canada, Mexico, Bermuda or one of the other Caribbean island nations, you should 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 passport card will cost $65 ($50 for children under 16) and will be valid for ten years (five years for children). Renewals cost $30. A traditional passport book costs $145; renewals cost $110.

Can I Carry Both Types of Passports?

Yes. Even better, if you already hold a valid US passport that was issued after you turned 16, you can apply for a passport card as a mail-in renewal and pay only the $30 renewal fee.

How Do I Apply for My Passport Card?

First-time passport card applicants who do not have a passport book (traditional passport) must go in person to a passport application facility , such as a post office or courthouse, and submit a completed passport application form, proof of US citizenship, one passport photo and the required fee.

You may need to make an appointment to apply for your passport card. Contact your chosen passport acceptance facility for location-specific information and appointment availability. When you apply for your passport cards, you will need to give the passport official the documents you submit as proof of citizenship, but they will be returned to you separately by mail after your passport has been 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 wear your glasses when posing for your passport photo. If you normally wear a hat or head covering for medical or religious purposes, you may do so for your passport photo, but you must submit a statement with your passport card application detailing the reasons for wearing it. The statement must be signed by you if you wear a hat or head covering for religious reasons. Your doctor must sign the statement if you wear a hat or head covering for medical reasons.

You may also take your own passport photo. The requirements for passport photos are quite specific. You can find a list of passport photo requirements, tips for taking your own passport photo and a photo sizing tool on the State Department's "Photo Requirements" web page.

If you choose not to provide your Social Security number on your application and you live outside the US, the IRS can fine you $500.

Can I Track My Passport Card Application Status?

Yes! The State Department now offers online passport application tracking. You will need to provide your last name, birth date, and the last four digits of your Social Security number.

When Will I Receive My Passport Card?

You will receive your passport card in six to eight weeks, not counting mailing time. Try to apply for your card at least ten weeks before your scheduled departure date to allow for unexpected delays in processing.

You may apply for expedited processing if you are willing to pay an additional $60 for that service. Typically, expedited passport applications are processed in two to three weeks. Overnight delivery is not available for passport cards. You will receive your passport card via first class mail.

Travelers who need passport cards in less than two weeks must make an appointment at one of the 13 Regional Passport Agency offices to submit their applications and payment in person. Call the National Passport Information Center (NPIC) at 1-877-487-2778 or use NPIC's online passport appointment system to schedule your appointment.

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The Key Differences Between A Passport Card & A Passport Book

• Choose a passport card if you frequently travel by land and sea within Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Bermuda.
• Passport cards are cheaper than a passport book.
• Get both a passport book and a card if you travel by air and land equally.

The US passport book, expressly designed for international travel, accommodates air, sea, or land journeys. This compact, easily portable booklet starts with a page dedicated to the traveler's personal details, such as name, date of birth, and photograph.

Pages are allocated for immigration stamps and visas, which serve as official entry and exit records from different countries. Modern versions of the passport book include an electronic chip to enhance security and facilitate quick processing at borders. This chip contains a digital replica of the information displayed on the personal details page.

The US also offers a passport card for individuals who primarily travel by land or sea to nearby countries, such as Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Bermuda. This wallet-sized card is a convenient, more compact alternative to the traditional passport book. It's important to note that the passport card cannot be used for air travel; it is specifically designed for land and sea travel.

Both the passport book and the passport card have a validity period of ten years for adults, ensuring travelers can use their documents for numerous trips, making international travel smooth and efficient. Additionally, choosing between a passport book and a passport card—or to obtain both—allows travelers to select the document that best suits their travel needs, preferences, and habits.

5 Exotic Destinations Americans Can Fly To Without A Passport

Which passport should you get: book or card.

Consider your travel habits when deciding between a passport book and a passport card . If you frequently travel by air or have plans to visit countries beyond Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Bermuda, a passport book is preferable. However, a passport card might be sufficient for your needs if you primarily travel by land or sea to nearby destinations.

Passport books are more expensive than cards. First-time applicants must pay an application fee and an acceptance fee. The acceptance fee goes to the facility that takes your application, and the application fee goes to the US Department of State.

Passport book cost for first-time applicants

• For adults (16 and older): $165
• For children (15 and under): $135

Passport card cost for first-time applicants

• For adults (16 and older): $65
• For children (15 and under): $50

Acceptance fees are dropped for renewal of both the passport book and card. Travelers can expect to pay $130 to renew an adult passport book and just $30 to renew an adult passport card.

When to get both a passport book and passport card

The passport book is the all-encompassing identifier to carry regardless of where you travel. Having both passport types might be convenient, like if you travel equally by air and land. If you’re visiting Canada or Mexico by car, you might prefer a more compact document for traveling across the border. A passport card for regular land-based trips would be helpful.

Validity and renewal

Both documents are valid for ten years for adults and five years for children. If you already have a passport, you may be eligible to renew it . You can also correct incorrect information or report your lost or stolen passport . The routine processing time for a passport is six to eight weeks.

You can expedite the process, which takes two to three weeks and costs an extra $60. It is essential to consider the time to get a passport when booking travel. It may take up to two weeks for applications to arrive at a passport agency or center, and it may take up to two weeks for you to receive a completed passport after printing.

Requirements for renewing your passport

• Your passport is not damaged.
• You have never reported your passport lost or stolen
• It was issued within the last 15 years.
• It was issued when you were 16 years or older.
• It was published under your current name.

Renew by mail

• Confirm you meet the requirements
• Fill out your renewal form online
• Submit your most recent passport
• Provide a photo
• Calculate fees
• Submit application
• Enroll in email updates for tracking details

Using a passport card for domestic travel:

On May 7, 2025, US travelers must have a REAL ID to board domestic flights and access certain federal facilities. US passport books and cards are valid forms of ID for domestic air travel, but the card is more convenient to carry. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) accepts the passport card as ID for domestic flights in the United States.

Department Of Homeland Security Extends REAL ID Deadline Another Two Years

When deciding on the best option for your travel documentation, consider the nature of your travel. A passport book is likely the most versatile and universally accepted form of identification and travel document. On the other hand, a passport card could be a more convenient and cost-effective choice if your travels mainly involve crossing borders by land or sea, especially to destinations like Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Bermuda. The passport card is smaller and easier to carry for day trips or frequent land and sea crossings, but it's important to note that it cannot be used for international air travel.

What Is a Passport Card—and Can It Replace a Passport?

There are a few major differences between a passport book and a passport card. here’s what you need to know about each..

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Passport cards can be used for domestic air travel but not international flights.

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If you’ve ever applied for a new passport (or have filled out the paperwork to renew an existing passport ), you may have noticed that there’s also an option to purchase a passport card.

While both are valid forms of identification for U.S. citizens and noncitizen nationals that help facilitate travel, there are some significant differences between the two. Here’s what you need to know if you’re trying to decide between a passport book versus a passport card.

What is the difference between a passport book and a passport card?

Passport books and cards both contain information about their owner, including full name, nationality, place of birth, gender, issue date and expiration date, a unique identification number, and a photo.

Here’s how they’re different:

Passport cards are less expensive than passport books. First-time passport book applicants are charged $165 (or $135 if they’re under 16). Passport book renewals cost $130, regardless of age. For passport cards, the initial cost is $65 ($50 for those under 16) and $30 for renewals. Both are valid for 10 years for adults and five years for those who are under age 16 at the time of issuance.

Where (and when) you can use them

With a U.S. passport book, travelers can enter all other countries and territories where Americans are welcomed (although some places require visas arranged ahead of time) by air, land, or sea. Passport cards, however, are only valid for traveling between the United States and Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Bermuda, by land or sea. You can’t use them for any international air travel.

Note that both are Real ID compliant and can be used for domestic flights.

A passport card is the same size and shape as a credit card.

Courtesy of State Department

The standard passport book is a 3.5-by-5-inch navy blue booklet containing a title page with the user’s personal information and 28 blank pages for visa stamps (which are given when you enter or leave a country other than the United States). Passport cards are sized to fit wallets and look similar to a driver’s license.

Are passport cards worth it?

Because passport books are all-encompassing for international travel, they’re a better choice than passport cards for most people. However, there are some scenarios where it’s worth having a passport card—for example, you’re only planning to travel by land and sea or have a tight budget and need to do a border crossing. According to the Department of State, “The passport card was designed for the specific needs of northern and southern U.S. border communities with residents that cross the border frequently by land.”

You could also get both. Given the passport card’s size, it’s easy to carry around and use as a backup ID.

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How to get a REAL ID and use it for travel

The REAL ID Act is a law that sets higher security standards for state-issued driver's licenses and identification cards (IDs).

Why upgrade your license to a REAL ID?

Beginning May 7, 2025, if you have not upgraded your driver’s license or state-issued ID to be REAL ID-compliant, you will not be able to use it to:

• Board federally regulated commercial aircraft
• Access federal government facilities or military installations
• Enter nuclear power plants

Visit the REAL ID website for more details and frequently asked questions .

Check to see if your license or state ID is already REAL ID-compliant

If your driver's license or state ID has a star in the upper right-hand corner, it is already REAL-ID-compliant. There is nothing more you need to do.

How to get a REAL ID

When you apply for or renew your driver’s license or state identification card, you can choose to make it REAL ID-compliant. Find and visit your state's driver's licensing agency website to see what documentation you will need. Your new card will have the REAL ID star marking at the top right.

Using REAL ID and other ID options to board a plane

If you do not upgrade your license or state ID, you can use a passport or one of these other acceptable forms of identification to fly . 

Can you still get a non-REAL ID-compliant license or state ID?

You will still be able to get a driver's license or state ID card that is not REAL ID-compliant. But you will not be able to use it for air travel or to get into federal facilities or military installations. Find and visit your state's driver's licensing agency website to see how to get a non-REAL ID-compliant license or state ID.

LAST UPDATED: December 18, 2023

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U.S. Passport Card: How Do You Get One?

Are you looking to get a passport card? This is a question frequently asked by our readers. If you are traveling to Mexico, Canada, and the Caribbean as a U.S. citizen, you can use an alternative to the traditional passport book, such as a passport card.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Required Documents

A passport card comes in very handy because it is much easier to handle. You can put it in your wallet and not worry about carrying a bulky document. Getting a routine or expedited passport card is simple with our step-by-step how-to guide on obtaining your card.

The passport card requirements are the same as applying for a new passport. Follow the instructions below:

• DS-11 Application Form for New Passport
• Passport Photos
• Supporting Documents

Which Countries Accept Passport Card?

It is imperative to understand the difference between a passport book and a card . You should know there are restrictions on a passport card.

• If you are traveling outside the United States via air travel, you will still need a traditional passport book, as a card is not valid for air travel.
• Passport cards are only valid for Canada, Mexico, and the Caribbean.

A U.S. passport card could be used at any land or sea crossing port of entry from Mexico, Canada,  the Caribbean, and Bermuda. However, it cannot be used for any international air travel.

Passport Tips: Carry both the card and the passport book in an emergency and you need to fly home. The passport card is not valid for air travel.

Applying for a regular or expediting passport card is very simple if you follow the instructions below. First, you will need to gather the required documents for a passport card.

Passport Processing Time

Additionally, you will need to submit an appropriate passport photo for inclusion on your card. This will need to be a two-inch by two-inch photo of the front of your head that accurately represents how you will look during your upcoming trip.

You will need to pay the appropriate passport card fees (typically $30 application + $35 acceptance fee for an adult passport card), but this ultimately will vary depending on the situation and needs.

The standard processing time can take between two weeks and four weeks, and one to two weeks to expedite a passport card, depending on several factors, including the time of year that you apply.

A card is valid for ten years for an adult and five years for a child. Usually, the time frame is the same as a routine passport book: 4 – 6 weeks to get your new card.

Step 1: Fill out the Application Form

The first step in obtaining a passport card is downloading and filling out the DS-11 form .

Fill out the application using a black ink pen or use the State Department online tool to fill out the application, and select “passport card.” DO NOT sign the passport form until asked to sign the document in front of an acceptance agent.

Step 2: Gather Supporting Documents

Once you have completed the passport form and selected the passport card, you will need to gather all supporting documents, such as proof of citizenship, proof of identification, and a passport photo . You will have obtained all the original documents and visited an acceptance agent to have an official federal witness your signature on your application.

If you are using the form DS-11 ONLY for the DS 82 application, an acceptance agent is not required.

Step 3: Package & Send Documents

You will need to package all your documents in a Tyvek envelope.

Include payment for the passport card, which should be made to the “Department of State.”

Be sure to write your full name and date of birth on the check.

Expedited Passport Card Services

Suppose you need to card the documents from you and take them to the nearest passport processing location. After paying an additional fee, an expedited passport courier service can have your passport card in your hand as soon as 24 to 48 hours.

We recommend that you do your research on the company’s quality as reputation is very important in this industry. Feel free to contact us for recommendations.

What is a Passport Card?

Passport cards were largely designed to be a smaller, less expensive alternative to a traditional passport book. It serves the same purpose as a regular passport book in that it allows you to prove both your United States citizenship and your identity while traveling around the world.

Instead of a large book such as a passport book, a card is similar in size to a traditional credit or debit card like the one you may have obtained from your bank.

It also contains a radio frequency identification chip, also called RFID , as a security measure to help protect against identity theft.

Questions & Answers

Below are some passport card questions our readers usually ask us.

Passport Card vs REAL ID: What is the Difference?

A REAL ID is used for U.S. Domestic air travel as a passport card for international travel for anyone traveling by land and sea to selected countries.

Do You Need a REAL ID if you have a Passport Card?

No! You do not need a REAL ID if you have a passport card.

Can You Buy a Passport Card?

Yes, when you are filling out either the DS-11 OR DS-82 Application Form, you would need to select “Card” if you only want the card.

How Does a Passport Card Look Like?

Passport card is a driver size card that works on land and sea border crossing.

The card acts as a fully valid passport for travel to destinations contiguous to the United States. They were created largely to make it easier for citizens of the United States who may live on the border between the US and another country.

As a result, they can only be used when traveling between the United States and Bermuda, the Caribbean Islands, Canada, and Mexico.

Get an Expedited Passport in As Little as 24 Hours!

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Related Topics

Everything you need to know about passport requirements for canadian and mexican travel.

In 2024, US Citizens Must Have A Visa To Visit Europe

How to Get a Money Order?

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General Questions

Children (under 16), social security number requirement, u.s. passport card, 1. i'm renewing my passport. do i get the old one back will i get a new passport number.

Yes. In most cases when you renew by mail, we will return the old passport to you. The old passport may not arrive for up to 8 weeks after you receive your new passport. 

If your old passport has a valid visa, you can still use the valid visa. You must travel with both your new and old passport in this case.

The number on your new passport will be different from the number on your previous passport.

If you have Global Entry, update your  Trusted Traveler account  with your new passport information. 

2. My address changed. Do I need to update my passport?

Do not contact us if your address changed  after  you receive your passport.

Contact us only if your mailing address changed while you are waiting for your passport.

Call us at  1-877-487-2778  (or  1-888-874-7793  if you are deaf or hard of hearing)

3. I already applied and need my passport sooner than I thought. What can I do?

Call us at  1-877-487-2778  (or  1-888-874-7793  if you are deaf or hard of hearing). You’ll need either your application number or your last name and date of birth.

• Get expedited service for $60. 
• Get 1-2 day delivery of your completed passport book for $19.53. One-to-two day delivery is not available for passport cards. We only send cards via First Class Mail.

4. Do I need 6 months of validity on my passport to travel?

If you are age 16 or older, your passport is valid for 10 years. Your child's passport (age 0-15) is valid for 5 years.

Some countries require that your passport have at least six months of validity beyond the dates of your trip . Some airlines will not allow you to board if this requirement is not met. 

Check our  Country Information page  to learn how long your passport needs to be valid.  

To learn about returning to the United States after your travel, visit the U.S. Department of Homeland Security's website .

5. How long does it take to get a passport?

Go to our  Processing Times page  for more information.

6. How will you send my passport and supporting documents?

You will get multiple mailings. The number of mailings depends on what document(s) you asked for.

Passport Book : You may get your new passport and citizenship documents in two mailings. You may wait 8 weeks after getting your passport before you get a second mailing with your citizenship documents. We will return the passport book using a trackable delivery service.

Passport Card : You may get your new passport card and your citizenship documents in two mailings. You may wait 8 weeks after getting your passport before you get a second mailing with your citizenship documents. We only send the passport card via First Class Mail. We do not send cards using 1-2 day delivery services.

Both a Passport Book and Card : You may get three separate mailings:

• New passport book
• New passport card
• Citizenship documents

Contacting Us : If you have been waiting more than 8 weeks for your citizenship documents, call us at  1-877-487-2778 .

7. I am recently married or divorced. How do I change my name on my passport?

For more information, go to our  Change or Correct a Passport page . 

If you are changing your name within one year of the date your passport was issued, complete  Form DS-5504 .   

If you are changing your name over a year after your passport was issued, complete  Form DS-82 . 

8. I am traveling very soon. How do I get a passport quickly?

Go to our  Get My Passport Fast page  for information on expediting your application, or making an appointment at a passport agency or center.

If you have a life-or-death emergency, go to our  Life-or-Death Emergency page  to see if you qualify for an appointment. 

9. How much does a U.S. passport cost?

The cost of your passport depends on how fast you need it, and if you want a passport book, passport card, or both documents.

Go to our  Passport Fees page  for more information on how much to pay, and what forms of payment we accept. 

10. How do I get the status of my application?

Enroll in emails using the  Online Passport Status System . Learn about what each update means on our Application Status webpage .

11. My passport has already been issued and mailed to me, but I have not received it. What do I do?

If you have waited over two weeks since we mailed your passport, call us at  1-877-487-2778  (or  1-888-874-7793  if you are deaf or hard of hearing).

We will help you complete a special form (known as the  DS-86 form ) which is a signed statement that you didn't receive your U.S. passport.

You must complete the DS-86 form within 90 days of the date we issued your passport. After 90 days, you must reapply and pay all fees, by law.

12. My passport has been damaged. Can I continue to use this passport?

If your passport is damaged, apply for a new passport. Replace your passport if there is:

• Water damage
• A significant tear
• Unofficial markings on the data page
• Missing visa pages (torn out)
• A hole punch

Do not replace your passport if there is normal "wear and tear" which includes:

• The bend of a passport after being carried in your back pocket
• Fanning of the visa pages after lots of opening and closing

If you need to replace your damaged passport, submit:

• The damaged passport;
• A signed statement explaining the damaged or mutilated condition of your passport book and/or card; 
• Form DS-11  (including supporting documents, photo, and fees)

13. How many blank visa pages do I need, and can I add pages to my passport book?

Some countries require that your passport has two to four blank visa or stamp pages. Some airlines will not allow you to board if this requirement is not met.

You cannot add visa pages to a current passport book. If you need more pages, you must renew your passport book.

On your passport form, select the option for a "large book" so you can get a passport book with extra visa pages. 

14. Can I use a passport to fly in the United States?

Yes. The U.S. passport book and passport card are alternatives to a state-issued REAL ID and can be used for domestic flights. 

According to the  Department for Homeland Security , residents of all states will soon have to use a Real ID compliant ID for domestic air travel. Not sure if your state’s driver’s license and ID are Real ID compliant? Check  your state’s status . For a complete list of acceptable forms of identification to fly in the United States, visit REAL ID . 

15. Can I get a second passport book?

Yes, but only if you have a valid U.S. passport book and you meet several  requirements. Learn more to see if you are eligible .

16. I got a letter in the mail or an email about my application. What should I do?

We sent you a letter or email because we need more information from you to continue processing your passport. Go to our  Respond to a Letter or Email page  for more information.

17. Who should have a valid U.S. passport?

You should have a U.S. passport if: 

• You have family living or traveling abroad,
• You are thinking about a vacation abroad, or
• You have a job that could require international travel.

18. My new passport book has a QR code sticker on the back. What is it for?

These stickers give you easy access to important passport and travel information on our website.

• If you scan the code using your mobile device, it will link you to our website. If you do not wish to scan the code, you can also access the information on our  After I Get My Passport page .
• Is the same on all passport books
• Does not have personally identifiable information, and
• Does not change the way border officials and airlines review your document.
• We are not placing QR code stickers on passport cards. 
• You may remove the sticker. We recommend keeping it on so you have quick and easy access to our website.

2. What should I do if one parent or guardian cannot apply in person?

• Both parents or guardians must approve that we can issue a passport to a child, and go with the child to apply in person.
• If one or both parents or guardians cannot apply in person with their child, you will need to show more documents.

Important : Submit  Form DS-3053  and other notarized statements within three months of signing them.

3. Can I renew my child's passport?

No. You cannot renew your child's passport using Form DS-82. If your child is under age 16 , your child must appear in person with you and the child's other parent or guardian. You must submit your child's Form DS-11 at a passport acceptance facility, or a passport agency or center.

1. Do I have to provide my social security number on my passport application?

Yes. Federal law requires that you provide your social security number, if you have one.

If you do not provide the information, your passport application will be delayed and your application may be denied. You will also be subject to a $500 penalty enforced by the Internal Revenue Service. ( 26 U.S.C. 6039E ). 

Contact the  Social Security Administration  for information about getting a social security number and card.

2. What if I or my children don’t have a social security number?

Submit a signed and dated statement. You must include the statement with the application, and include this text:

“I declare under penalty of perjury under the laws of the United States of America that the following is true and correct:  I (or my child) have never been issued a social security number by the Social Security Administration.”

1. What is the passport card?

The U.S. passport card is a wallet-sized, plastic passport that has no visa pages. The card is proof of U.S. citizenship and identity, and has the same length of validity as the passport book.  

The card is for U.S. citizens who travel by land and sea from Canada, Mexico, Bermuda, and Caribbean countries.

The card is  not valid for international travel by air  and is cheaper than the passport book.

You can apply for either the book or card, or both documents.  

2. How do I apply for a passport card?

You can apply for both a passport book and passport card at the same time using the same application. When completing your form, let us know if you would like to apply for one or both documents. 

If you're renewing both your passport book and passport card, you must provide both documents. If you can submit a passport book, but you lost your passport card, you cannot renew the passport card using Form DS-82.

3. Can I get a passport card if I already have a passport book?

Yes. If you already have a passport book and   you are eligible to use Form DS-82, you may apply for a passport card by mail as a "renewal" even if it is your first passport card.

You can do the same and apply for your first passport book by mail as a "renewal" if you already have a passport card.

Make An Appointment at a Passport Agency or Center

We have two types of appointments: Life-or-Death Emergency Service and Urgent Travel Service . You cannot walk-in. 

Not Yet Applied : Make an appointment online

Already Applied : Call  1-877-487-2778 . Se habla español.

If you are deaf or hard of hearing, call  1-888-874-7793  for TDD/TTY teletype services. 

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3 travel apps you need before your next flight to keep you out of long TSA lines

Travel can be stressful, especially when airports are involved. 

Flights get delayed, or, worse still, canceled.  

Ever-growing security lines sometimes snake through the airport, putting you in jeopardy of missing your flight.

Last-minute changes can happen and derail months of planning, potentially starting off your trip on a bad note.

Programs like TSA PreCheck and Global Entry can help travelers, but there are also ways that tech can help you prepare for your journey and stay aware of the curveballs that might come your way.

Learn more: Best travel insurance

Here are three apps to download before your next trip. 

Watch the video above to learn which three apps you need before your next trip. 

Airline app 

Download your airline’s app! 

It keeps all of your travel information in one, easy-to-access place. 

Turn on notifications to get immediate alerts when it's time to check in so you'll know if there are any delays or gate changes. 

Once you have a boarding pass, save even more time by adding it to the digital wallet on your smartphone.

The lines at airport security can be very unpredictable. Sometimes there is no wait, other times, the line extends into the check-in area. 

The Transportation Security Agency’s (TSA) app, MyTSA, tries to make the wait a little more predictable and helps you determine what to expect, especially if you’re traveling from one of the busiest airports in the US.  

The app provides a real-time look at your selected airport's wait time, any FAA delays, and which TSA PreCheck lanes are open. 

The app also uses historical data to help you plan ahead. So, even if your flight is three days away, the app can show you what you’re likely to encounter that day based on previous experiences. 

It’s also a useful resource if you’re unsure about what you can or can’t pack in your carry-on and checked luggage.

Mobile Passport Control

If you’re traveling abroad, the Mobile Passport Control app makes your return through U.S. customs much faster. 

The app is a digital version of the Customs and Border Patrol Declaration Form that anyone entering the U.S. is required to fill out.  

You can save up to 12 profiles in the app, and only one form is needed per family, per residence. 

The app doesn't work at every airport, so check  the CBP website to see where you can use it. 

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