For the convenience and safety of American citizens, the US State Department has provided the option of a lightweight card as identification when crossing certain borders. Also known as a PassCard, it became available in July 2008. So, what is it? Is it the right choice for you? Here is what you need to know about the USA Passport card.
The passport card is a limited substitute for the passport booklet as proof of US citizenship. It can be used for land and sea trips to Mexico, Canada, Bermuda, and the Caribbean. It cannot be used as an international travel document for any other countries and it is never applicable to flights.
Anyone who experiences a lot of travel between countries in North America may find the card beneficial. It is particularly useful for those who live in border towns because of its wallet size and lower cost. There is also a belief that this will speed up the process at border. For those same reasons it has benefits for many others.
There are special security features included in the card to help defend against forgery. The RFID chip gives off a radio frequency that can be read at the border. There is no personal information held on the chip and should not be of concern. This same chip is present in US passport booklets and many debit and credit cards. For those that worry, a radio blocking sleeve comes with your card.
The price is what most people look at to make their final decision. The traditional booklet costs one hundred dollars, compare that to the forty five dollar price of the PassCard. Just like the booklet, the card is valid for ten years for those over the age of sixteen. Under sixteen years of age the card is valid for five years.
The card and booklet have the same application process. You will need to find an approved passport facility and turn in your paperwork in person if this is your first time getting a passport. You will need to show valid identification and fill out the proper form. Then the two 2×2 pictures you have brought will be mailed along with your proof of US citizenship, either a birth certificate or papers showing naturalization. These will be returned to you when your card arrives in the mail.
For those who already have a passport, all of the necessary paperwork can be sent by mail. You can even use your passport booklet as proof of US citizenship. You will get it back when the card comes in the mail. It is also possible to both renew your booklet and receive a new card using the same application.
The application is very simple, the card form is convenient, and the price is economical. If North American travel is all that your require, perhaps the passport id card would be good for you. There are many places on the internet that can help you with getting a passport card of your own.
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