A U.S. passport card is a smaller and less expensive alternative to the traditional passport book. While it cannot be used for international air travel, it can still be used for certain land and sea travel destinations.
If you are traveling by car, cruise ship, ferry, or another approved land or sea route, a passport card may be enough depending on where you are going.
Countries You Can Visit With a Passport Card
U.S. citizens can use a passport card for travel to:
- Canada
- Mexico
- Bermuda
- Caribbean countries that accept Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI) documents
The passport card is valid for:
- Land border crossings
- Sea ports of entry
- Closed-loop cruises
It is not valid for international air travel.
Can You Fly Internationally With a Passport Card?
No. A passport card cannot be used for international flights. If you are flying to another country, you must use a traditional U.S. passport book.
For example:
- Driving from Texas into Mexico → Passport card accepted
- Taking a cruise to the Bahamas → Passport card may be accepted
- Flying to Jamaica → Passport book required
The U.S. Department of State clearly states that passport cards are only valid for land and sea entry from certain countries.
What Is a Closed-Loop Cruise?
A closed-loop cruise starts and ends at the same U.S. port. Many Caribbean cruises departing from Florida or Texas fall into this category.
Some cruise lines allow travelers to use a passport card instead of a passport book for these cruises. However, travelers should still confirm requirements with the cruise line before departure.
Passport Card vs Passport Book
| Feature | Passport Card | Passport Book |
|---|---|---|
| International air travel | No | Yes |
| Land travel to Canada or Mexico | Yes | Yes |
| Sea travel to Caribbean | Yes | Yes |
| Domestic identification | Yes | Yes |
| Size | Wallet-sized | Standard passport |
| Cost | Lower | Higher |
Benefits of a Passport Card
Many travelers choose a passport card because it is:
- Less expensive than a passport book
- Easy to carry in a wallet
- Useful for frequent land border crossings
- Valid Real ID-compliant federal identification
A passport card can be especially useful for travelers who frequently drive into Canada or Mexico.
When You Should Get a Passport Book Instead
A passport book is the better option if you:
- Plan to fly internationally
- Travel to countries outside North America
- Want broader travel flexibility
- May need emergency international air travel
Many travelers choose to apply for both a passport book and passport card together.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I go to Mexico with a passport card?
Yes. U.S. citizens can use a passport card for land and sea travel to Mexico.
Can I fly to Canada with a passport card?
No. A passport card cannot be used for international air travel. You need a passport book to fly to Canada.
Can I take a cruise with a passport card?
Yes. Many closed-loop cruises allow U.S. citizens to travel using a passport card.
Is a passport card cheaper than a passport book?
Yes. Passport cards generally cost less than passport books.
Can children get a passport card?
Yes. Children can apply for a passport card just like adults.
How long is a passport card valid?
For adults, passport cards are valid for 10 years. For children under 16, they are valid for 5 years.
