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Traveling to a foreign country can be a thrilling experience. However, it can also be stressful, especially when it comes to dealing with immigration and customs. That’s where a passport travel card comes in handy. This document is a convenient alternative to a traditional passport that offers several benefits to travelers. In this article, we will discuss the features, advantages, and FAQs surrounding the passport travel card to help you make an informed decision for your next international trip.
What is a Passport Travel Card?
A passport travel card or passport card is a wallet-sized card that serves as a travel document for US citizens. It is a convenient and cheaper alternative to a traditional passport book, especially for those who frequently travel by land or sea to Canada, Mexico, Bermuda, and the Caribbean. The card contains the same information as a traditional passport book, including the holder’s name, photo, and other personal details.
Advantages of a Passport Travel Card
One of the main advantages of a passport travel card is its convenience. Unlike a traditional passport book, which can be bulky and difficult to carry around, the passport card is small enough to fit in your wallet. This means you can easily carry it with you wherever you go, making it a more practical choice for frequent travelers.
Another advantage of the passport card is its cost. It is significantly cheaper than a traditional passport book, which makes it an affordable option for those who travel frequently to the countries mentioned above. The cost of a passport card for first-time applicants is $65 for adults and $50 for children, compared to $145 for a traditional passport book.
Lastly, the passport card can be used as a valid form of identification in the US. This means that you don’t need to carry your driver’s license or other identification documents with you when you travel domestically. This added convenience can make your travel experience much smoother and stress-free.
Applying for a Passport Travel Card
Applying for a passport travel card is a straightforward process. You can apply in person at a passport agency, acceptance facility, or US embassy or consulate. The application process requires you to fill out Form DS-11, show proof of citizenship, provide a recent photo, and pay the application fee. The processing time for a passport card is generally shorter than that of a traditional passport book.
FAQs about Passport Travel Card
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| What countries accept a passport travel card? | The passport travel card is only valid for land and sea travel between the US and Canada, Mexico, Bermuda, and the Caribbean. |
| Can I use my passport card for air travel? | No, the passport card is not valid for international air travel. You will need a traditional passport book for that. |
| How long is a passport travel card valid? | A passport travel card is valid for 10 years if you are 16 years or older and 5 years if you are 15 years or younger. |
| Can I use my passport card as a form of identification in the US? | Yes, the passport card can be used as a valid form of identification in the US. |
| What is the cost of a passport travel card? | The cost of a passport travel card for first-time applicants is $65 for adults and $50 for children. |
Conclusion
A passport travel card is a convenient and affordable alternative to a traditional passport book for US citizens who frequently travel to Canada, Mexico, Bermuda, and the Caribbean. It offers several advantages, including convenience, lower cost, and additional uses as a valid form of identification in the US. If you are planning to travel to any of these countries, consider applying for a passport travel card to make your travel experience smoother and more enjoyable.