U.S. Passport Card
A U.S. passport card is a wallet-sized passport that serves as proof of U.S. citizenship and identity. It is REAL ID compliant and can also be used as identification for domestic air travel.
We’ll ask a few simple questions and guide you to the correct application form and process.
Government fees$30 government fee for a first passport card or a card added to a passport book ($15 for a child under 16); when applying for a book and card together, the book fee applies as well. Paid to the U.S. Department of State. A passport card applied for in person (Form DS-11) also carries a separate $35 acceptance fee paid directly to the acceptance facility (accepted payment methods vary by location). Optional expedited service adds the State Department's $60 expedite fee (plus $26.87 for 1–3 day return delivery when a passport book is included).
You can apply for a passport card by itself or together with a passport book.
For international travel, the passport card can be used for eligible land and sea travel between the United States and Canada, Mexico, Bermuda, and certain Caribbean destinations.
A passport card cannot be used for international air travel.
Who Can Apply for a Passport Card?
U.S. citizens can apply for a passport card as their passport document or together with a passport book.
You may apply for a passport card if you are:
- Applying for your first U.S. passport using Form DS-11
- Applying for a passport for a child using Form DS-11
- Renewing an eligible passport card using Form DS-82
- Adding a passport card when you already have an eligible passport book, generally using Form DS-82
- Applying for a passport book and card together using the form that applies to your situation, such as DS-11 or DS-82
The application process depends on your age and the passport documents you currently have.
We’ll ask a few simple questions and guide you to the correct application form and process.
Passport Card vs. Passport Book
A passport card is smaller and fits in your wallet. A passport book is designed for broader international travel.
Passport Card
A passport card can be used:
- As proof of U.S. citizenship and identity
- As REAL ID-compliant identification
- For domestic air travel
- For eligible international land and sea travel between the United States and Canada, Mexico, Bermuda, and certain Caribbean destinations
It cannot be used for international air travel.
Passport Book
A passport book can be used for international travel by:
- Air
- Land
- Sea
You can apply for a passport card, a passport book, or both using the passport application form that applies to your situation.
How Long Is a Passport Card Valid?
A passport card is generally valid for:
- 10 years if issued to someone age 16 or older
- 5 years if issued to a child under age 16
Children under age 16 cannot renew a passport card. They must apply again in person using Form DS-11.
What You May Need
The documents required depend on your application situation and may include:
- Proof of U.S. citizenship
- Acceptable photo identification
- Your current or most recent passport book or passport card, if applicable
- A passport photo
- Parent or guardian documentation for applicants under age 16
- The correct passport application form, such as DS-11 or DS-82
We’ll guide you through the documents and forms required for your specific application.
Already Have a Passport Book?
You can still apply for a passport card if you already have a passport book.
If you have an eligible adult passport book, you may be able to apply for your first passport card through the passport renewal process using Form DS-82.
The correct process and form depend on the passport document you currently have and whether it is eligible for renewal.
How It Works
- Tell Us What You Have
Answer a few simple questions about whether you currently have a passport book, passport card, both, or neither.
- Tell Us What You Need
Choose whether you want a passport card only or a passport card together with a passport book.
- We Determine the Correct Application
Based on your answers, we guide you to the correct passport application form, such as DS-11 or DS-82, and the appropriate process for your situation.
- Complete Your Application
Provide your personal information, complete the required passport form, and provide the documents needed for your application.
- We Review Your Application
We review the information you provide and help prepare your application package and required forms for submission.
- Submit Your Application
Depending on your situation and the form you are using, you may need to submit your application by mail or appear in person at a passport acceptance facility.
Apply for a U.S. Passport Card
Whether you are applying for your first passport card, renewing an existing card, adding a card to your passport book, or applying for both documents, we’ll help guide you to the correct form and application process.
Common questions
Can I use a passport card for international air travel?
No. A passport card cannot be used for international air travel. It can be used for eligible land and sea travel between the United States and Canada, Mexico, Bermuda, and certain Caribbean destinations, and as REAL ID-compliant identification for domestic flights.
Can I get a passport card if I already have a passport book?
Yes. If you have an eligible adult passport book, you may be able to apply for your first passport card through the passport renewal process using Form DS-82.
More answers in the FAQ hub.