Traveling internationally? There are two types of passports you can get in the US: a passport book and a passport card. They each have their pros and cons, so it depends on your travel habits.
The Passport Book: Your All-Access Travel Companion
This booklet is for any kind of international travel – air, land, or sea. It has pages for your personal information, visas (special permits to enter some countries), and immigration stamps (proof you entered and exited a country). Newer booklets have an electronic chip for faster border crossings.
The Passport Card: Great for Quick Trips to Nearby Countries
This card is cheaper than the book and is good for land or sea travel only. So, no flying! It’s perfect for quick trips to Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, or Bermuda. If you travel by air or plan to go further than Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, or Bermuda, then you need a passport book. If you mostly take land or sea trips to nearby destinations, a passport card might be all you need.
Cost Considerations
Applying for a passport book for the first time is more expensive than getting a card. For adults, it’s $165 vs. $65. Renewing a passport book is also more expensive – $130 compared to $30 for a card renewal.
Traveling internationally? There are two types of passports you can get in the US: a passport book and a passport card. They each have their pros and cons, so it depends on your travel habits.
The Passport Book: Your All-Access Travel Companion
This booklet is for any kind of international travel – air, land, or sea. It has pages for your personal information, visas (special permits to enter some countries), and immigration stamps (proof you entered and exited a country). Newer booklets have an electronic chip for faster border crossings.
The Passport Card: Great for Quick Trips to Nearby Countries
This card is cheaper than the book and is good for land or sea travel only. So, no flying! It’s perfect for quick trips to Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, or Bermuda. If you travel by air or plan to go further than Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, or Bermuda, then you need a passport book. If you mostly take land or sea trips to nearby destinations, a passport card might be all you need.
Cost Considerations
Applying for a passport book for the first time is more expensive than getting a card. For adults, it’s $165 vs. $65. Renewing a passport book is also more expensive – $130 compared to $30 for a card renewal.
Remember, acceptance fees are not required when renewing your passport.
