US Passport Card?

Question

Last time I was at the post office using my passport book as a id to get a package. The postal clerk told me I should get a passport card and I don't even have to pay $20. I don't understand how is that possible? Other then that I like to ask if I have to send my passport book along with the application to get the passport card, photo, check? How long does it take to get everything back?

Answer 1

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U.S. citizens may begin applying in advance for the new U.S. Passport Card beginning February 1, 2008, in anticipation of land border travel document requirements. We expect cards will be available and mailed to applicants in spring 2008.

The passport card will facilitate entry and expedite document processing at U.S. land and sea ports-of-entry when arriving from Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean and Bermuda. The card may not be used to travel by air. It will otherwise carry the rights and privileges of the U.S. passport book and will be adjudicated to the exact same standards.

Note: A previous passport book holder, eligible to use Form DS-82, may apply for a passport card as a Renewal. First time applicants for a U.S. Passport, and those not eligible to use the DS-82, should apply for a passport card using Form DS-11.

The Department of State is issuing this passport card in response to the needs of border resident communities for a less expensive and more portable alternative to the traditional passport book. The card will have the same validity period as a passport book: 10 years for an adult, five for children 15 and younger. For adults who already have a passport book, they may apply for the card as a passport renewal and pay only $20. First-time applicants will pay $45 for adult cards and $35 for children.

Source(s):

http://travel.state.gov/passport/ppt_car…

Answer 2

That's a new one on me... I've never heard of a "passport card"... I'll be interesting to see what answers you get.

Answer 3

Info here:
http://travel.state.gov/passport/ppt_car…

Note that it can't be used for air travel.

Answer 4

You do have to pay. You would apply for a renewal passport and request the card. I don't think you have to send the passport book in. Passport cards are only valid for land travel within North America.

You could also just get a state ID and use that to get packages.