The US State Department is now offering the relatively new U S passport card. Also called the PassCard, it was created for the convenience of Americans who travel to certain North American countries. What do you need to know about this card? Is it truly more convenient? Find out if the PassCard is right for you.
The PassCard is a new alternative to the conventional passport booklet as a way of identifying yourself as a US citizen. When travelling by land or sea, it can successfully be used when returning from Canada, Mexico, Bermuda, and the Caribbean. It will not be accepted for travel by air and is not a valid travel document for any other countries.
People who frequently cross borders for work or play may find several advantages in the passport card. The greatest purpose for the card is to benefit the population of Americans that live in border towns. It is the size of a credit card, so it easily fits in your wallet, and the price is lower than the booklet. It is also believed that these cards will decrease the wait times at the border.
There are certain security features involved to protect the PassCard from counterfeiting. The RFID chip helps the security process at the border, but there is no personal identification information held within the chip. The passport booklet and many credit and debit cards also have the same kind of chip. For those who feel that it is necessary, a sleeve is given with the card that blocks transfer of information.
The price is what most people look at to make their final decision. The traditional booklet costs one hundred dollars, compare that to the forty five dollar price of the PassCard. Just like the booklet, the card is valid for ten years for those over the age of sixteen. Under sixteen years of age the card is valid for five years.
A passport card has the same requirements as the conventional booklet. If it is your first time getting a passport, you will need to apply in person at a Passport Application Facility and provide identification. In addition, two 2×2 photos and a birth certificate or proof naturalization need to be brought to show US citizenship. This will be sent with the application and returned in the mail along with your new card.
If this is not your first passport, you do not need to appear in person and can send your entire application by mail. Your passport booklet can be sent in as proof of citizenship and identity. It will be returned when you receive your card. There is also an option to apply for both the card and booklet at the same time.
The U.S. passport card is made for North American travel, has a lower price than the passport, and can easily fit into a wallet. Now that you know what it is, decide whether it is the right choice for you. There are many resources online that can assist you in obtaining your passport card.
