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Passport Card
Figure 1: Front |
Figure 2: Back |
The passport card is a credit-card size U.S. passport that, just like a passport book, is proof of U.S. citizenship and identity. It is more convenient and less expensive than a passport book, but can only be used to re-enter the United States at land border crossings and sea ports-of-entry from:
- Canada
- Mexico
- The Caribbean
- Bermuda
The passport card cannot be used for international air travel.
Please note: Just like passport books, passport cards are valid for 10 years for applicants 16 and older and 5 years for applicants under 16.
What form do I use?
You can apply by mail using Form DS-82 if you have a passport book or card that:
- Can be submitted with your application
- Is undamaged (other than normal "wear and tear")
- Was issued when you were age 16 or older
- Was issued within the last 15 years
- Was issued in your current name (or you can document your name change with an original or certified copy of your marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order)
If any of the above statements do not apply to you, you must Apply in Person using form DS-11.
Fees
Form | Application Fee | Execution Fee | More Information |
---|---|---|---|
DS-82 | $30 | $0 | Renew by Mail |
DS-11 | $30 ($15 for under 16) |
$25 | Apply In Person |
Please note:
- Passport cards can only be mailed to you using First-Class Mail.
- You can use Form DS-82 to renew your passport book at the same time you apply for your passport card.
FAQs
-
Can I apply for the passport card and passport book using the same application?
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Yes, you can apply for both a passport book and passport card at the same time using either Form DS-11 (apply in person) or Form DS-82 (renew by mail - must be eligible). Simply check the appropriate box at the top of the form to indicate that you would like to apply for both products.
Be sure to include both passport book and passport card fees. Please see Passport Fees for more information.
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Does the passport card contain an electronic chip?
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Yes, the passport card has a vicinity-read radio frequency identification (RFID) chip. The RFID technology used in the passport card enables a unique number in the card to be read at a distance by an authorized U.S. Customs and Border Protection reader mounted alongside the traffic lane.
The chip contains no biographic data. It has a unique number linking the card to a secure database maintained by Department of Homeland Security and Department of State.
Even though the chip contains no biographical data, the passport card comes with a sleeve that prevents the unique number from being read when the card is not in use.
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Can I use my passport card to cross the border faster?
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Yes, the passport card is approved by U.S. Customs and Border Protection to be used in Ready Lanes at several land border ports of entry.
More information about Ready Lanes is available on the U.S. Customs and Border Protection’s website.