The question of whether you can fly with just a passport card has been a topic of confusion and debate among travelers for years. Many people assume that a passport card is sufficient for air travel within the United States, but the reality is a bit more complicated than that.
A passport card is a wallet-sized ID card that is issued by the U.S. Department of State as an alternative to the traditional passport book. It is designed for U.S. citizens who frequently travel by land or sea to Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Bermuda. While the passport card is a convenient and cost-effective option for these types of travel, it is not valid for air travel to these same destinations.
According to the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) website, a passport card cannot be used for international air travel. In order to board a flight to a foreign country, travelers must present a valid passport book. This is because air carriers are required to verify the identity and citizenship of all passengers before allowing them to board a flight to a foreign destination.
So what does this mean for travelers who only have a passport card and need to fly internationally? The simple answer is that they will not be allowed to board the flight. Without a valid passport book, they will not be able to pass through security and immigration at the airport, and they will be turned away at the gate.
For travelers who find themselves in this situation, there are a few options available. The first and most obvious solution is to apply for a passport book. The process of obtaining a passport book is similar to that of getting a passport card, but it does take longer and is slightly more expensive. Travelers can apply for a passport book at any passport acceptance facility, including post offices, courthouses, and libraries. It typically takes 4-6 weeks for a passport book to be processed and delivered, so travelers should plan accordingly.
If time is of the essence, travelers can expedite their passport application for an additional fee. This will reduce the processing time to 2-3 weeks, but it is still not guaranteed to be ready in time for a last-minute trip. For those who need their passport book even faster, there are services that offer same-day passport processing for a hefty fee. These services are typically used by travelers who have urgent international travel plans and cannot wait for the standard processing times.
Another option for travelers who only have a passport card is to change their travel plans. Instead of flying to their destination, they can look into alternative modes of transportation, such as driving or taking a cruise. This may require some flexibility and adjustments to their itinerary, but it can be a viable solution for those who do not have the time or resources to obtain a passport book.
In conclusion, while a passport card is a convenient form of identification for land and sea travel to certain destinations, it is not sufficient for air travel to foreign countries. Travelers who only have a passport card and need to fly internationally must obtain a passport book in order to board the flight. By planning ahead and being aware of the requirements for air travel, travelers can ensure a smooth and hassle-free journey to their destination.
