Get the Passport Card – Your Essential Travel ID for Land and Sea Crossings

Get the passport card — a compact, wallet-friendly alternative to the traditional passport book, designed for frequent travelers crossing by land or sea into Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Bermuda. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or need a secure government-issued ID for domestic use, the U.S. Passport Card is a smart, convenient, and cost-effective choice. In this comprehensive guide, you’ll learn everything you need to know about how to get the passport card, where to apply, processing times, and how to expedite your request — all while ensuring your journey toward securing this vital travel document is fast, stress-free, and efficient.

Why You Should Get the Passport Card Today

There’s never been a better time to get the passport card. Unlike the bulky passport book, the passport card fits easily in your wallet and is accepted for entry into the U.S. from Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Bermuda when traveling via land border crossings or sea ports-of-entry. It’s also compliant with REAL ID requirements, making it a valid form of identification for domestic flights and federal facilities.

If you already have a passport book, you can still get the passport card only — no need to renew or replace your existing document. Many Americans are discovering the benefits of having both: the book for international air travel and the card for quick cross-border access.

How to Get the Passport Card: Step-by-Step Application Process

To get the passport card, you must apply by mail or in person, depending on your situation. First-time applicants, children under 16, and those replacing a lost or stolen passport must apply in person. However, eligible U.S. citizens may be able to get passport card online through select third-party services that streamline the process with secure document upload and tracking.

Here’s how to get the passport card step by step:

1. Gather the Required Documents
   • Proof of U.S. citizenship (e.g., certified birth certificate, naturalization certificate)
   • Government-issued photo ID (e.g., driver’s license)
   • A recent passport photo (2×2 inches, white background)
   • Completed Form DS-82 (if renewing) or DS-11 (if applying for the first time)
2. Decide How to Apply
   • Get passport card at post office: Over 7,000 U.S. Post Offices accept passport applications. Use the official locator tool to get passport card near me.
   • Get passport card in person at a regional passport agency for urgent travel needs (appointment required).
   • Get passport card after book renewal: If you’re renewing your passport book, you can now request the card at the same time.
3. Pay the Fees
   The card passport cost is significantly lower than a passport book. As of 2024:
   • Adult Passport Card (age 16+): $65 (includes $35 execution fee for first-time applicants)
   • Minor Passport Card (under 16): $50
     Expedited service is available for an additional $60.

Can You Get a Passport Card if You Already Have a Passport Book?

Yes! Even if you get passport card already have book, you can apply for the card separately. Many travelers ask, “How to get a passport card if I have the book?” The process is simple: just submit Form DS-82, your most recent passport book, a new photo, and the appropriate fee. This is ideal for those who want the convenience of a wallet-sized ID without the cost of renewing their book early.

Frequently asked questions like “Can I get a passport card if I have a book?” and “How to get passport card if you have passport?” are easily answered — yes, you can, and you should. Having both gives you maximum flexibility for all types of travel.

Need It Fast? How to Get a Passport Card ASAP

If you’re asking, “How do I get a passport card fast?” or “Can I get passport card same day?”, you’re not alone. Expedited processing can get your card in 2–3 weeks instead of the standard 8–11 weeks. For true urgency — such as emergency travel or medical issues — get passport card asap through a National Passport Agency with an appointment.

For those wondering “how long does it take to get a passport card”, here’s a clear breakdown:

• Routine Processing: 8–11 weeks
• Expedited Processing: 5–7 weeks (add $60)
• Agency Appointment (Life-or-Death Emergency): As little as 24–48 hours

You can get passport card fast by ensuring all documents are complete and using overnight delivery for mailing.

Where to Get the Passport Card: U.S., NJ, and Beyond

Regardless of where you live, you can get a passport card USA nationwide. Residents of New Jersey, for example, can get passport card NJ at major post offices in cities like Newark, Trenton, and Atlantic City. Use the U.S. Department of State’s official office locator to get a passport card near me and find the closest acceptance facility.

Some states also offer county clerk offices and public libraries as passport application centers, expanding options to get a passport card in person.

Special Cases: What If You Didn’t Receive Your Passport Card?

If you’ve applied but did not receive a passport card, don’t panic. First, check the tracking number provided by the U.S. Department of State. If it shows delivered but you haven’t received it, contact the National Passport Information Center at 1-877-487-2778. Never discard your receipt — it’s essential for follow-up.

If you find a lost passport card, what to do if you find a passport card is simple: Do not use it. Mail it immediately to the following address:
U.S. Department of State
Attn: Passport Card Return
P.O. Box 90155
Philadelphia, PA 19190-0155

Tampering with someone else’s passport is a federal crime.

International Considerations: Can You Get a Passport Card Ireland or PassportCard Cyprus?

While the U.S. Passport Card is issued only to American citizens, some may confuse it with documents from other countries. You cannot get passport card Ireland or passportcard Cyprus through U.S. channels. These are separate national ID programs. The U.S. Passport Card is not valid for international air travel — only for land and sea entry into specific regions.

However, its compact size and durability make it ideal for cross-border drives or cruise vacations. It’s also a great passport card get into canada option for frequent visitors crossing by car or ferry.

Can You Get the Passport Card and Book Together?

Yes, you can get passport card and book at the same time. When applying, simply check the box for both on Form DS-11 or DS-82. This is highly recommended for first-time applicants or those planning air travel in the near future. While the card passport cost for both is higher than one alone, the combined convenience and flexibility are well worth the investment.

Final Thoughts: How to Obtain the Passport Card and Secure Your Travel Future

Now that you know how to get the passport card, there’s no reason to delay. Whether you want to get passport card online, by mail, or in person, the process is straightforward and accessible. From how long does it take to get a passport card to how to get a passport card if i have the book, every question has a clear answer — and every American traveler deserves this valuable tool.

Don’t let paperwork slow you down. Start today: gather your documents, locate your nearest acceptance facility, and get passport card USA without hassle. Whether you’re crossing the border for business, vacation, or family visits, the passport card is your go-to ID for smooth, secure travel.

Act now — your next adventure awaits, and the passport card is your key to unlocking it. Get the passport card today and travel with confidence, convenience, and peace of mind.