Do You Need A U.S. Passport or U.S. Passport Card When Traveling?
The passport book and passport card are both U.S. passports.
A United States Passport may be used for International travel by Land, Sea, or Air
A United States Passport Card may only be used for entering the United States at land border crossings and sea ports-of-entry from Canada, Mexico, The Caribbean, and Bermuda.
If issued for the full validity, they are both proof of your U.S. citizenship and identity.
See the chart below to decide which is best for you. (Can’t decide? Get both!)
| U.S. Passport Book | U.S. Passport Card | |
|---|---|---|
| Image |  |
 |
| Used For | International travel by air, sea, or landThe passport book is Real ID compliant and can be used for domestic air travel. |
Entering the United States at land border crossings and sea ports-of-entry from:
The passport card cannot be used for international air travel.
The passport card is Real ID compliant and can be used for domestic air travel.
|
| Validity | 16 and older: 10 years Under 16: 5 years |
16 and older: 10 years Under 16: 5 years |
| Size | 5″ x 3.5″ (when closed) | Wallet size |
| Cost |
Please see Passport Fees for more information. |
Please see Passport Fees for more information. |
| Shipping Options | If you’re applying for a book, you can select 1-2 day delivery which costs an additional $15.89. | If you’re only applying for a card, we will send it to you via First Class Mail. You cannot select 1-2 day delivery. |
How do I get a passport card?
You can apply by mail using Form DS-82 if you have a passport book or card that:
- Can be submitted with your application
- Is undamaged (other than normal “wear and tear”)
- Was issued when you were age 16 or older
- Was issued within the last 15 years
- Was issued in your current name (or you can document your name change with an original or certified copy of your marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order)
If any of the above statements do not apply to you, you must Apply in Person using form DS-11.
Please Note:
- If you only applied for a passport card, the card will be sent to you via First Class Mail. They do not use 1-2 day delivery services for passport cards.
- You can use Form DS-82 to renew your passport book at the same time you apply for your first passport card.