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The Passport Card Vs. Passport Book

2025 Update: This article has been reviewed and updated to reflect the most current U.S. Department of State passport policies, usage rules, and government fees as of 2025. Information is provided for educational purposes to help travelers understand the differences between a passport card and a passport book.

When applying for a U.S. passport, travelers are often presented with two options: the passport card and the passport book. While they may sound similar, these documents serve very different purposes. Understanding their limitations—and how they can be issued together—can help travelers make an informed decision before applying.

Fastport does not offer passport cards as a standalone service. However, eligible travelers may request a passport card as an optional add-on when applying for a passport book, allowing both documents to be processed together by the U.S. Department of State.

Where You Can (and Can’t) Use a Passport Card

The U.S. passport card is limited in use. It is valid only for land and sea travel between the United States and:

Canada
Mexico
The Caribbean
Bermuda

The passport card cannot be used for international air travel under any circumstances. Travelers cannot board an international flight using a passport card, regardless of destination.

By comparison, the passport book is valid for all forms of international travel, including air, land, and sea, making it the most flexible and widely accepted travel document.

Learn more about passport document requirements here:
Passport Application Requirements

Passport Cards and Cruise Travel

Passport cards are sometimes considered by travelers planning cruises, especially to destinations in the Caribbean. While a passport card may be accepted on certain cruises, the U.S. Department of State recommends traveling with a passport book, even for closed-loop cruises.

Relying solely on a passport card can present serious challenges if plans change:

If a medical or family emergency arises, you will not be able to fly internationally to return home.
If you miss your cruise ship at a port, you will not be able to fly to the next port to rejoin the cruise.
Any situation requiring emergency evacuation by air would require a passport book.

For these reasons, many travelers find that the passport book offers greater peace of mind.

Planning a cruise or replacing a passport before travel?
Passport Replacement Options

Security Features and Convenience

Since its introduction in 2008, millions of U.S. passport cards have been issued as a more compact alternative to the passport book. Passport cards include an RFID chip that allows U.S. Customs and Border Protection to securely verify the card at land and sea ports of entry.

The RFID chip does not store personal data and is used only for identity verification at border crossings.

Passport cards are wallet-sized and more resistant to wear than a passport booklet. However, this convenience comes with significant travel limitations that should be carefully considered.

Passport Card Validity and Government Fees (2025)

All fees are set by the U.S. Department of State and are subject to change.

Adults (Age 16 and Over)

Valid for 10 years

First-time applicant: $65
Previous passport holder (renewal or eligible replacement): $30

Minors (Under Age 16)

Valid for 5 years

All minor applicants: $50

Expedited Processing (Optional)

Additional $60 U.S. Department of State expedite fee
Applies in addition to the passport card application fee

Need help expediting a passport book instead?
Expedited Passport Services

Should You Get a Passport Card or a Passport Book?

While a passport card may be suitable for limited land or sea travel, it is not a replacement for a passport book. Travelers who want flexibility, emergency preparedness, and the ability to fly internationally should strongly consider applying for a passport book.

Choosing the right passport document ahead of time can help prevent delays, missed travel, and unexpected complications.

Frequently Asked Questions About Passport Cards

Can you fly internationally with a passport card?

No. A U.S. passport card cannot be used for international air travel under any circumstances. A passport book is required to board an international flight.

Is a passport card enough for a cruise?

In some cases, yes. However, the U.S. Department of State recommends traveling with a passport book, even for closed-loop cruises, in case emergency air travel is needed.

What countries can you visit with a passport card?

Passport cards are valid only for land and sea travel between the U.S. and Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Bermuda. They cannot be used for air travel or destinations outside these regions.

What happens if you miss your cruise ship with a passport card?

You will not be able to fly to another port to rejoin the cruise. You would need to arrange land or sea travel to return to the U.S.

Is a passport card more secure than a passport book?

Both documents meet U.S. government security standards. Passport cards include an RFID chip for land and sea border verification, while passport books are designed for global travel use.

Should I choose a passport card or a passport book?

For most travelers, a passport book is the recommended option due to its flexibility and ability to support international air travel.