Passport Book vs. Passport Card: What's the Difference?
Edited by Janet White || By Harlon Moss || Updated on October 9, 2023
A passport book is a globally accepted travel document, while a passport card is limited to land and sea entries from Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Bermuda.
Key Differences
A passport book is the traditional form of passport, recognizable by its multi-page booklet format. In contrast, a passport card is wallet-sized and resembles a driver's license.
Passport books can be used for international air travel and are accepted globally. On the other hand, a passport card is limited and cannot be used for international air travel.
For travelers within the U.S., the passport card can serve as a Real ID-compliant identification for domestic flights. The passport book, while bulkier, is universally accepted for all forms of travel.
The cost for a passport book is generally higher than that of a passport card. Still, the book's flexibility and wide acceptance make it a popular choice for frequent international travelers.
When deciding between a passport book and a passport card, one should consider the nature and frequency of their travels. While the passport book offers comprehensive coverage, the passport card may suffice for those traveling by land or sea to specific regions.
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Comparison Chart
Format
Multi-page booklet
Wallet-sized card
International Air Use
Yes
No
Acceptance
Global
Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Bermuda (land and sea)
Cost
Generally higher
Typically lower
Purpose
Comprehensive international travel
Limited regional travel (by land/sea)
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Passport Book and Passport Card Definitions
Passport Book
A booklet permitting the holder to travel abroad and re-enter their home country.
Before her trip, she renewed her passport book.
Passport Card
A cost-effective alternative to the passport book for specific travel.
They saved money by getting passport cards for their cruise.
Passport Book
A global travel document allowing international air travel.
She grabbed her passport book before her flight to Europe.
Passport Card
A wallet-sized card for land and sea travel within specific regions.
For their road trip to Mexico, they used their passport cards.
Passport Book
A booklet containing personal details and visas for international journeys.
Always check the expiration date on your passport book before planning a trip.
Passport Card
A Real ID-compliant document for domestic flights within the U.S.
The passport card can be used as ID for domestic flights.
Passport Book
An official government document certifying identity and citizenship.
His passport book had stamps from over 30 countries.
Passport Card
A card permitting entry to Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Bermuda without a booklet.
She always keeps her passport card in her wallet for spontaneous trips.
Passport Book
A universally recognized travel and identification document.
You'll need a valid passport book for international flights.
Passport Card
A limited travel document resembling a driver's license.
He prefers the convenience of the passport card when cruising to the Bahamas.
FAQs
How many pages are in a typical passport book?
A standard U.S. passport book has 28 pages, but a 52-page version is available for frequent travelers.
Is the passport card a replacement for the passport book?
No, the passport card is an alternative with limited use, not a replacement for the passport book.
Can I use the passport book for all types of travel?
Yes, the passport book is accepted for all international travel modes.
Which is more cost-effective for frequent international air travelers?
The passport book is the only option for international air travelers and is more versatile.
Can I use the passport card for domestic flights in the U.S.?
Yes, the passport card is Real ID-compliant and can be used for domestic flights.
Where is the passport card valid for entry?
The passport card is valid for land and sea entries from Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Bermuda.
How long is the validity of both the passport book and passport card?
For adults, both are valid for 10 years. For minors under 16, they are valid for 5 years.
How do I decide which document to get?
Consider your travel needs. If you travel frequently by air, go for the passport book. If you only travel by land or sea to specific regions, the passport card might suffice.
Are the security features the same for both?
Both contain security features, but their design differs due to their format.
Are there different designs or themes for the passport card?
The U.S. passport card has a standardized design.
Can I hold both a passport book and a passport card?
Yes, U.S. citizens can simultaneously hold both documents.
Can I add visas to my passport card?
No, visas can only be added to passport books.
Is the processing time the same for both documents?
Generally, yes, but always check with the U.S. Department of State for current processing times.
Is the passport card widely recognized?
It's recognized for specific regional travel but not as universally accepted as the passport book.
Can I renew both my passport book and card at the same time?
Yes, you can renew both simultaneously using the appropriate form.
Is the application process the same for both documents?
The application process is similar, but there are differences in fees and required documents.
Do children need a passport book or can they travel with the card?
Children can have either, but the passport book is required for international air travel.
In case of loss, can I report both the passport book and card together?
Yes, you can report the loss of both documents together.
How much does it cost to get both?
Fees vary, so always check with the U.S. Department of State for the latest fee structure.
Is biometric data stored in the passport card?
The U.S. passport card contains a vicinity-read radio frequency identification (RFID) chip, but it doesn't store personal information. Instead, it points to a stored record.
About Author
Written by
Harlon MossHarlon is a seasoned quality moderator and accomplished content writer for Difference Wiki. An alumnus of the prestigious University of California, he earned his degree in Computer Science. Leveraging his academic background, Harlon brings a meticulous and informed perspective to his work, ensuring content accuracy and excellence.
Edited by
Janet WhiteJanet White has been an esteemed writer and blogger for Difference Wiki. Holding a Master's degree in Science and Medical Journalism from the prestigious Boston University, she has consistently demonstrated her expertise and passion for her field. When she's not immersed in her work, Janet relishes her time exercising, delving into a good book, and cherishing moments with friends and family.
