A passport card is simply a wallet-sized version of a standard passport book with some limitations. The card works only for border travel to and from the U.S. to Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean and Bahamas. An expedited U.S. passport card costs less than a regular passport and is much more convenient to have around.
The traveler who truly travels the world will still need a regular passport, but someone who merely visits the Caribbean, Mexico and Canada does not need an actual passport. For this type of trip, the passport card is perfectly acceptable. It is very similar in appearance to a license, except it is issued by the State Department and can be substituted for a passport for certain destinations.
Applying for a passport card is much the same process as applying for a standard passport. Actually, all of the same forms are going to be used. The entire process can be handled at a regional office or a local post office that handles passport processing. Anyone not sure of where to go can do a local Internet search and find a location near them.
The expedited pasport card itself does have restrictions on it. It was made in place of a passport for areas that had never really required passport documentation from the United States before. Also, it cannot be used for air travel at all. This card is meant for cruise traveler and actual border crossings to places like Mexico. Now, instead of only needed a valid driver’s license, the passport card serves as the official accepted ID.
A passport card makes use of some of the most advanced technologies out there today in regards to protecting ones identity. Both electronic coding and art laser engraving are used to make sure that the document cannot be counterfeited. It almost seems as though the technology on the cards gets better and more secure every year.
To get an expedited passport card, everything must be in order or the process will be delayed. Something that some people do not realize is that it is their responsibility to have the photo taken and ready when they get to the passport office. In addition to that, proper ID and proof of citizenship must be gathered. The expedited service will also require that an additional fee be paid.
One thing to make note of is that when applying for a passport, all documentation must be the original forms. If anything is laminated or copied, it will not be accepted. If the documents are being mailed in for renewal, be sure to use a major overnight service that will provide tracking detail and guarantee delivery.
The expedited USA Passport card can be a great benefit to those that live near a country’s border and have the need to regularly cross to the other side. Whether the need is for business or pleasure, this is a much more convenient method than regular a U S passport and much easier to carry.
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