Beginning June 1, 2009 ALL PERSONS traveling by air, land and sea outside of the United States are required to present a passport book or passport card to enter or re-enter the United States. There has been much confusion on the difference between the new passport card and a traditional passport book.
Here is a simple way to know which document you will need based on your mode of transportation.
U.S. Passport – This is an internationally recognized travel document that verifies a person’s identity and nationality. It is accepted for travel by air, land and sea. The passport book is good for all travel outside the U.S. regardless of the destination and method of transportation.
U.S. Passport Card – This is a new, limited-use travel document that fits in your wallet and costs less than a U.S. Passport. It is only valid for travel by land and sea. The card is not permitted for air travel regardless of the circumstances. For example, if you have a passport card and traveling on a cruise to the Caribbean and had to disembark the ship to return home part way through the cruise. You would not be permitted to board an aircraft to fly home to the U.S. with the card as it is only valid for LAND and SEA travel.
Both the card and the book are valid for 10 years but the prices are different. The book will cost approximate $100 per adult and the card will cost approximate $45 per adult.
We recommend obtaining the book since it is valid for air travel in addition to the land or sea travel. You may plan a driving vacation to Canada this year so you purchase the passport card. What happens two or three years down the road when you have to fly and your passport card is not valid for that trip? Don't limit yourself, obtain the passport book.
If you still have questions or concerns about either the passport book or card, please call our office today for assistance. 800-627-1208 or 330-966-2252. Visit our website to download your passport application. http://www.palmertravel.com
