Is a Passport Card Cheaper than a Passport?

A U.S. passport card is a low-cost travel document issued by the U.S. Department of State for limited international travel. It is designed for U.S. citizens who frequently cross nearby borders by land or sea and want a cheaper alternative to a passport book.

Understanding passport card fees in 2026, including renewal costs and optional services, helps applicants avoid processing delays and unexpected charges.

What Is a U.S. Passport Card?

A passport card is a wallet-sized, government-issued travel document that allows U.S. citizens to enter the United States from:

Canada
Mexico
the Caribbean
Bermuda

Important: The passport card cannot be used for international air travel. Travelers flying abroad must use a passport book.

Applications are submitted at an authorized Passport Acceptance Facility or directly through a regional U.S. Passport Agency for urgent travel.

Passport Card Fees (Current Costs)

Adults (Age 16 and Older)

• First-time passport card: $65
  • Application fee: $30
  • Execution fee: $35
• Renewal passport card: $30
  • No execution fee for renewals

Minors (Under Age 16)

• Passport card: $50
  • Application fee: $15
  • Execution fee: $35

Execution fees are paid separately to the acceptance facility and are non-refundable.

Optional Passport Card Fees

• Expedited processing: $60
• 1–2 day delivery (passport book only): Not available for passport cards
• File search fee: $150 (if proof of citizenship is missing)

All expedited requests are processed by the U.S. Department of State, not local facilities.

How Long Does a Passport Card Take?

Processing times vary depending on demand and service level:

• Routine service: 6–8 weeks
• Expedited service: 2–3 weeks
• Urgent travel: Same-day or limited-day service at a U.S. Passport Agency (appointment required)

Timelines begin once the application is officially received, not when it is mailed.

Can You Apply for a Passport Card and Book Together?

Yes. Many applicants choose to apply for both at the same time to save on execution fees.

Combined adult fees:

• Passport book + passport card (first-time): $195
• Passport book + passport card (renewal): $160

This option provides maximum flexibility for both air and land travel.

Where Can a Passport Card Be Used?

The passport card is valid for:

• Land border crossings
• Sea travel on closed-loop cruises

It is not valid for:

• International flights
• Travel to countries outside approved regions

Travelers unsure about entry requirements should confirm with the U.S. Department of State before departure.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a U.S. passport card cost in total?

For adults, the total cost is $65 for first-time applicants and $30 for renewals. For minors, the total cost is $50.

Is the passport card cheaper than a passport book?

Yes. The passport card costs significantly less but has limited travel use compared to a passport book.

Can I use a passport card to fly internationally?

No. Passport cards are not valid for international air travel.

Do passport card fees change often?

Fees are set by the U.S. Department of State and change infrequently. Applicants should verify current fees before applying.

Where do I pay the passport card fees?

Application fees are paid to the U.S. Department of State, while execution fees are paid directly to the passport acceptance facility.