The passport card is a convenient alternative to the traditional passport book for U.S. citizens who frequently travel to Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Bermuda by land or sea. It serves as a wallet-sized form of identification that can be easily carried around for quick trips across the border. Many people wonder how much a passport card costs, and in this article, we will explore the pricing and benefits of this travel document.
The cost of a passport card for adults (16 and older) is $65, and for children (under 16), the price is $50. This price is in addition to the application fee, which is $35. The total cost for an adult passport card, therefore, is $100, while for children, it is $85. The passport card is valid for 10 years for adults and 5 years for children.
The passport card is a great option for those who only travel to the countries mentioned above by land or sea. It is not valid for international air travel. The passport card can be used to re-enter the United States from these countries, but it cannot be used for entry into any other countries. If you plan on flying internationally, you will need to obtain a traditional passport book.
The process of applying for a passport card is similar to that of a passport book. You will need to fill out Form DS-11 (Application for a U.S. Passport), provide proof of U.S. citizenship (such as a birth certificate or naturalization certificate), a government-issued photo ID (such as a driver’s license), a passport photo, and payment for the fees. You can apply at a passport acceptance facility, such as a post office or clerk of court, or at a passport agency.
The processing time for a passport card is typically 4-6 weeks, but it can be expedited for an additional fee. Expedited service takes 2-3 weeks, and you will need to pay an additional $60 for this service. In cases of emergency travel, you may be able to get a passport card on the same day at a passport agency if you have proof of imminent travel.
The benefits of having a passport card are numerous. It is a convenient and portable form of identification for frequent travelers to Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Bermuda by land or sea. It can be easily carried in your wallet or purse, so you always have it with you when you need it. The passport card is also a secure form of identification, with RFID technology built into the card to prevent fraud and counterfeiting.
In conclusion, the passport card is a valuable travel document for U.S. citizens who frequently travel to Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Bermuda by land or sea. The cost of a passport card is $65 for adults and $50 for children, in addition to the application fee of $35. The process of applying for a passport card is similar to that of a passport book, and the processing time is typically 4-6 weeks. The benefits of having a passport card include convenience, portability, and security. So if you are a frequent traveler to these countries, consider getting a passport card for your next trip.
