Passport Card (US)

Wallet-size State Dept card for land/sea travel between the US and Canada, Mexico, Bermuda & the Caribbean. NOT valid for international air travel.

Do it on the official site

US Department of State — travel.state.gov; in person via acceptance facility; online renewal at opr.travel.state.gov

Fees

Apply (DS-11) adult card: $30 + $35 execution = $65 [confirmed]

Renew (DS-82): $30 [confirmed]

Processing time

Same as book — routine 4–6 weeks, expedited 2–3 weeks [confirmed]

How long it lasts

10 years (16+); 5 years (under 16)

What to know first

  • Cannot be used for international air travel — land/sea crossings only.
  • IS a valid REAL ID alternative for domestic flights.
  • Same forms/eligibility as the book (DS-11 / DS-82 / online).
  • Cheaper than the book — many travelers get both.

How to do it

  1. 1Same as the passport book (DS-11 in person / DS-82 by mail / online renewal).
  2. 2Can be requested alone or with a book on the same form.

What you need to bring

  • Same as passport book (proof of citizenship, photo ID + copy, passport photo, form, fee)

In person

Nearest passport acceptance facility (USPS / library / clerk)

Questions people ask

Can I fly internationally with it?
No — land/sea only.
Domestic flight?
Yes — TSA accepts it as REAL ID-equivalent.
Cheaper than the book?
Yes ($30 vs $130 app fee).

Documents that travel with it

Sources

  • travel.state.gov/.../fees.html
  • .../card.html (accessed 2026-06-26)