How to Get a U.S. Passport Card

 

If you are looking for instruction on “How to Get a U.S. Passport Card”. We have to build a passport card guide on how to get a passport card. A major complaint people have about passport booklets is their size and shape. A traditional passport doesn’t fit in a wallet and can be tedious to carry. However, there is another more convenient option for some international travel – the U.S.  Card.

A U.S. Passport Card is the size of a driver’s license and can fit easily into your wallet. It is available to U.S. citizens, even those who do not have a passport booklet at this time. A passport card can be used to travel to Mexico, Canada, and the Caribbean by sea or by land. While it can’t be used for international air travel, it can be used as proof of citizenship and official identification within the U.S. for any purpose.

Just like the booklets, passport cards are valid for 10 years (5 years for minors under age 16). The given card will have a different number than your book, but a book is not needed to be eligible for one.




Steps for Passport Card Application

Start by Gathering Your Documents. Applicants who currently have a valid book will need:

  • Current passport booklet
  • Passport Application Form (DS-82)
  • Passport photo
  • Photocopy of front and back of driver’s license (or other official I.D.)
  • Passport card fee of $30 payable by check to “U.S. Department of State” ($90 if expedited service is needed)
  • Flight itinerary/travel plans (if expedited service is needed)

Applicants who have never had a passport or are under age 16 must appear in person at a Passport Acceptance Office. Both parents must accompany children under 16. Items needed include:

  • New Passport Application Form (DS-11)
  • Proof of U.S. Citizenship
  • Passport photo
  • Photocopy of front and back of driver’s license or other official I.D. Minors under age 16 require copies of both parents’ driver licenses or passports.
  • Passport card fee of $30 payable by check to “U.S. Department of State” ($90 if expedited service is needed)
  • Flight itinerary/travel plans (if expedited service is needed)
  • Passport card fee: One check for $25 for the Passport Acceptance Agent; one for $30 for the “US Department of State” ($15 for applicants under age 16.) An additional $60 should be added to the U.S. Department of State check if expedited service is needed.

How long does it take to get a passport card:

  • Standard Mail (6 to 8 weeks)
  • Expedited Mail (2 to 3 weeks)
  • At a Passport Agency (slightly faster mailing times)
  • By a Passport Expediting Company – Can take as little as 24 to 48 hours

The Fastest Method to Receive a Passport Card

Clearly, the fastest way to receive a passport card is by using a passport expediting service. Service can take as little as 24 hours and in some cases, you will not have to appear in person at a passport agency.