The quintessential travel question: “passport book vs passport card,” which one to get? As a US citizen planning to travel abroad, it’s essential to understand the requirements for obtaining a passport, an indispensable document that serves both as proof of citizenship and permission to cross international borders. There are two primary forms of passports issued by the U.S. Department of State: passport books and passport cards. While both documents are official government-issued forms of identification, they possess significant differences in their usage and application.
Passport Book vs Passport Card: An Overview
Throughout this article, we will be discussing the distinct features of passport books and passport cards, their respective purposes, the circumstances under which you might need both, and guidance on where to obtain them within the United States. By providing a comprehensive overview, we aim to equip you with the knowledge necessary to make informed decisions regarding your travel documentation needs. Happy Travels!
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Passport Book vs Passport Card: The Book
What is a Passport Book?
A passport book is a small booklet issued to American citizens and non-citizen nationals for identification and travel purposes. It contains essential details, such as:
- A first page that features the holder’s photograph and personal information, including full name, nationality, birth date, birthplace, and gender, as well as the passport’s issuance and expiration dates.
- Additional biometric data, including height and weight.
- Visa pages that are specifically intended for travel and residence documentation.
- Empty pages designated for travel stamps.
As the most prevalent travel document, the passport book caters to frequent travelers requiring extensive supporting documentation. It’s suitable for international travel by air, sea, or land and comes in either 28 or 52 pages, depending on the holder’s needs.
For individuals aged 16 and older upon issuance, passport books have a validity period of 10 years. For younger travelers, passports are valid for five years and cannot be renewed for minors, while adult passport books can be renewed.
What is a passport book used for?
Passport books serve multiple purposes, including enabling international travel and acting as proof of U.S. citizenship. Additionally, they can be used to renew a passport application, allow entry into the U.S. and other countries, and confirm one’s identity.
Passport Book vs Passport Card: The Card
What is a Passport Card?
A passport card serves as an alternative to the traditional passport book for US citizens and non-citizen nationals. This wallet-sized card includes one’s passport number, photograph, name, citizenship details, date and place of birth, and issuance and expiration dates. However, the passport card is limited to land and sea border crossings at specific locations and is not valid for international air travel. The card remains valid for five years for minors and ten years for adults, offering a compact and convenient option for specific types of international travel.
What is a Passport Card Useful For?
Passport cards serve various purposes, such as:
- Domestic travel and boarding internal flights
- Visiting specific international regions by sea or land, like Canada, Mexico, or the Caribbean
- Acting as a form of identification and proof of citizenship
Where US Citizens Can Travel with a Passport Card
US citizens can use a passport card to enter the following countries:
- Anguilla
- Antigua and Barbuda
- Aruba
- Bahamas
- Bermuda
- British Virgin Islands
- Canada
- Caribbean Netherlands (Bonaire; Sint Eustatius and Saba; Curaçao; Sint Maarten)
- Cayman Islands
- Dominica
- Dominican Republic
- Grenada
- Jamaica
- Mexico (within the border zone)
- Montserrat
- Saint Kitts and Nevis
- Saint Lucia
- Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
- Turks and Caicos
Passport Book vs Passport Card: What are the Differences?
While both passport cards and books share some similarities, they significantly differ in several aspects:
- Modes of travel: Passport books allow international travel by air, land, or sea; however, passport cards only permit sea or land travel.
- Travel destinations: Passport books provide access to any international destination. In contrast, passport cards can only be used in countries accepting WHTI-compliant documents. Regions like Europe and Africa don’t accept passport cards. Hence, for a Mediterranean cruise, a passport book is necessary as the card isn’t valid for European seaport entry.
- Cost: Passport books are generally more expensive than passport cards. First-time applicants pay $165 for adults and $135 for children, including a $35 acceptance fee. For passport cards, first-time applicants pay $65 for adults and $50 for children. Renewal costs for adult passport books and cards are lower at $130 and $30, respectively.
- Physical format: There’s a size difference between the two, with passport books being 3.5 by 5-inch mini-booklets, while passport cards are credit card-sized, like driver’s licenses.
- Unique identifiers: Passport cards and books have different numbering systems. Cards feature a “C” followed by 8 digits, while books contain nine distinct numbers.
These five factors determine which document (passport card or passport book) suits a traveler’s needs based on the mode of travel, destination, affordability, convenience, and identification requirements.
Passport Book vs Passport Card: Which is Better?
Passport books provide greater flexibility for international travel, as they are accepted worldwide for air, cruise, and land travel. Additionally, passport books are necessary for obtaining travel visas, as they must be presented at immigration when applying for one.
On the other hand, passport cards are more portable due to their smaller size, making them a convenient option for those who prefer minimal bulk when traveling. Moreover, passport cards are priced lower than passport books, offering a cost-effective choice for those planning limited land or sea trips to destinations such as Canada or the Caribbean.
To make the right decision between a passport book and a passport card, consider your travel needs and the types of trips you anticipate taking in the next several years. By doing so, you can confidently choose the most suitable document for your travel plans, whether it’s a passport book, a passport card, or both.
Passport Book vs Passport Card: When to Obtain Both
At times, acquiring both the passport card and book may be necessary to address the limitations of the passport card, such as its incompatibility with international air travel and visa processing. Consider getting both the card and the book if:
- You need to travel by air, sea, and land, as various travel methods may be combined during your trips.
- Your Real ID is not valid for domestic air travel. If you have a passport card, you can fly domestically within the 50 states and use your passport book for international journeys.
- You’re looking to save on expenses. Applying for both documents simultaneously allows you to pay just one acceptance fee, thus avoiding any additional costs.
Where do I get my passport in the US?
To obtain a new U.S. passport, you must apply in person at designated passport acceptance facilities, which are often found at libraries or post offices. It is important to remember that new passport applications cannot be submitted online or by mail. Some facilities may require scheduling an appointment, and their operating hours might be limited.
When it comes to passport renewals, the process must be done through the mail, as online renewal options are currently suspended.
In addition to passport information, you may also find information about obtaining visas for various countries and regions across Africa, America, Asia, Europe, and Oceania. Moreover, you can explore helpful tips on traveling amid the current pandemic and general visa advice.
Passport Book vs Passport Card: Conclusion
I hope you found this “Passport Book vs Passport Card” helpful post. Understanding the differences and nuances between something seemingly similar but very different can be extremely stressful! If you have any questions on “Passport Book vs Passport Card,” drop them in the comments and someone from our Versed Traveler team will be happy to try to answer any questions 🙂
