U.S. Passport Card Guide
Everything you need to know about the wallet-sized passport card — costs, restrictions, and whether it's the right choice for your travel.
What Is a Passport Card?
A passport card is a wallet-sized travel document issued by the U.S. Department of State. It is a legitimate, secure form of identification that proves your U.S. citizenship and identity — but with important travel restrictions.
The card contains the same information as a passport book (name, nationality, date of birth, photo, and a radio-frequency identification chip for border crossings), but it is limited to specific types of travel.
Key Facts
- Same validity as a passport book: 10 years for adults, 5 years for minors
- Wallet-sized (same dimensions as a credit card) for easy carrying
- Includes RFID chip for faster land border crossings at equipped ports
- Valid REAL ID-compliant document for domestic flights
Passport Card vs. Passport Book
The passport card is not a replacement for a passport book. It is designed for a specific set of travelers with limited cross-border needs. Here is a side-by-side comparison:
| Feature | Passport Card | Passport Book |
|---|---|---|
| International Air Travel | Not Valid | Valid Worldwide |
| Land & Sea Travel (Canada, Mexico, Caribbean, Bermuda) | Valid | Valid |
| Size | Wallet-sized (credit card) | Small booklet (multiple pages) |
| Adult Cost (First-Time) | $65 + $35 execution fee | $130 + $35 execution fee |
| Adult Cost (Renewal by Mail) | $65 | $130 |
| Visa Pages | None | Large book has more pages |
Important: If there is any chance you will fly internationally in the next 10 years, get a passport book instead of (or in addition to) a card. A passport card cannot be used at airport immigration for any international flight.
Who Should Get a Passport Card?
A passport card is a cost-effective option for specific travelers. Consider a passport card if you match one of these profiles:
Good Fit
- Frequent cross-border drivers to Canada or Mexico
- Cruise passengers to the Caribbean or Bermuda
- People who want a REAL ID alternative for domestic travel
- Budget-conscious travelers who never fly internationally
- Those who want a backup ID that proves citizenship
Not a Good Fit
- Anyone who flies internationally (even once)
- Business travelers with uncertain itineraries
- People applying for foreign visas
- Travelers to countries outside North America / Caribbean
- Anyone who may need visa pages for entry stamps
Tip: You can get both a passport book and a card at the same time. The combined fee ($195 for adults) saves you money compared to getting them separately later. If you are unsure about future travel, this is the safest option.
How to Apply for a Passport Card
The application process for a passport card is identical to applying for a passport book. You use the same forms and follow the same steps — you simply select "Large Passport Book + Card" or "Passport Card" on Form DS-11 or DS-82.
First-Time Applicants
Complete Form DS-11 and apply in person at a passport acceptance facility. Select "Passport Card" or "Large Book + Card" in the form. Pay the card fee plus the $35 execution fee.
See First-Time Application GuideRenewal by Mail
If you already have a passport book and want to add a card, or your card is expiring, use Form DS-82 by mail. You can renew for a card alone ($65) or book + card ($195).
See Renewal GuidePassport Card Fees
| Applicant | Card Only | Book + Card | Execution Fee |
|---|---|---|---|
| Adult (16+) | $65 | $195 | $35 (first-time only) |
| Child (Under 16) | $15 | $115 | $35 (always) |
| Renewal (Adult, by mail) | $65 | $195 | None |
Add $60 for expedited processing and $22.05 for 1-2 day return shipping. These options are available for both first-time and renewal applications.
Processing Times
Passport cards are processed on the same timeline as passport books. The card itself is manufactured and mailed separately, which can sometimes mean it arrives a few days before or after your book.