In today’s fast-paced world, travel has become increasingly accessible and popular. Whether it’s for work or pleasure, many people find themselves jetting off to different countries on a regular basis. In order to do so, there is one essential item that is required – a passport. But the question remains, do you need both a passport book and card?
According to the U.S. Department of State, there are two types of passports that can be issued to U.S. citizens – a traditional passport book and a passport card. Both forms of identification serve the same purpose, which is to prove your citizenship and identity while traveling internationally. The main difference between the two lies in their size and acceptable uses.
A passport book is the standard form of identification for international travel. It is the larger of the two options, measuring 5 inches by 3.5 inches, and contains extra pages for visas and stamps. A passport card, on the other hand, is a smaller, more compact form of identification that is about the size of a credit card. The card can only be used for land and sea travel to and from Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Bermuda.
So, do you need both a passport book and card? The answer ultimately depends on your travel habits and destinations. If you frequently travel internationally by air and/or require visas for entry into certain countries, then a passport book is the best option for you. However, if you primarily travel to the aforementioned regions by land or sea, then a passport card may suffice.
There are also some additional factors to consider when deciding whether to get both a passport book and card. One consideration is cost – obtaining both forms of identification can be pricier than just getting one. As of 2022, a passport book costs $145 for adults (ages 16 and older) and $115 for minors (under 16), while a passport card costs $65 for adults and $50 for minors. If you opt to get both, you’ll need to pay for both.
Another factor to consider is convenience. Having both a passport book and card can be useful as a backup in case one is lost or stolen while traveling. Additionally, if you frequently travel to both international destinations and the aforementioned regions, having both forms of identification can save you time and hassle.
It’s also worth noting that a passport book is required for international air travel, so if you plan on flying to any destination outside of the U.S., you will need a passport book. A passport card alone will not suffice for air travel.
Ultimately, the decision to get both a passport book and card comes down to your individual travel needs and preferences. If you can justify the cost and see the benefit in having both forms of identification, then it may be worth considering. However, if you primarily travel by air internationally and don’t see the need for a passport card, then a passport book alone should suffice.
In conclusion, while having both a passport book and card is not a requirement, it can be beneficial for certain travelers. Consider your travel habits, destinations, and needs before making a decision on whether to obtain both forms of identification. Safe travels!
