If you’re preparing for an upcoming trip and considering whether to apply for a passport card, you may be wondering: how long is the passport card good for? The answer to this question is crucial, as it will help you determine whether investing in a passport card is the right choice for you.
To put it simply, a United States passport card is valid for 10 years for adults, and 5 years for minors under the age of 16. This means that once you receive your passport card, you can use it as a form of identification and for international travel for the specified duration of time.
The passport card was first introduced by the U.S. Department of State in 2008 as a more convenient and affordable alternative to the traditional passport book. It is designed for those who frequently travel to Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Bermuda by land or sea, as well as for those who prefer a smaller, more portable form of identification.
One of the key benefits of the passport card is its smaller size, which makes it easier to carry in your wallet or pocket compared to the traditional passport book. This can be especially helpful if you are traveling to countries where you do not need a visa, as the passport card provides a valid form of identification while still being compact and lightweight.
Additionally, the passport card is more affordable than the passport book, making it a cost-effective option for those who do not plan on traveling internationally by air. As of 2021, the application fee for a passport card is $30 for adults and $15 for minors. This is significantly cheaper than the passport book application fee, which is $110 for adults and $80 for minors.
It is important to note that while the passport card is a convenient and cost-effective option for certain types of travel, it does have limitations. For example, the passport card is not valid for international travel by air. If you plan on flying to a foreign country, you will need to have a valid passport book in addition to the passport card.
In addition, the passport card is only valid for travel to certain countries and territories. While it can be used for land and sea travel to Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Bermuda, it is not valid for travel to other international destinations. If you plan on traveling to countries outside of these regions, you will need to have a valid passport book.
To apply for a passport card, you will need to submit a completed application form, proof of citizenship, proof of identity, and a passport photo. You can apply for a passport card at most U.S. post offices, as well as at certain passport acceptance facilities.
Once you receive your passport card, it is important to keep it safe and secure. Treat it like you would any other form of identification, and be sure to carry it with you whenever you travel internationally. If your passport card is lost or stolen, you will need to report it to the U.S. Department of State as soon as possible.
In conclusion, the passport card is a convenient and cost-effective option for those who frequently travel to Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Bermuda by land or sea. It is valid for 10 years for adults and 5 years for minors, making it a long-lasting form of identification. However, it is important to remember that the passport card is not valid for international travel by air, and it is only valid for travel to certain countries and territories.
If you are considering applying for a passport card, be sure to research the requirements and restrictions before submitting your application. By understanding how long the passport card is good for and its limitations, you can make an informed decision about whether it is the right choice for your travel needs.
