You Could Have More Convenient Travel With A New Passport Card

The main thing that distinguishes the passport card from a traditional passport is that it cannot be used for international air travel. It can, however, be used for land border crossing in and out of the US. This means that it is an appropriate form of identification for travel between the US and Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean or Bermuda. This makes it perfect for road trips and cruises but remember that, even in these nearby countries, passport cards cannot be used for air travel.

Although it is not acceptable for travel to all destinations, there are many benefits to having this unique form of identification. All veteran travelers know the feeling of terror that washes over them when they think they have lost their passport. Passport cards are easy to keep track of since they fit into any wallet like a normal credit or identification card.

The key distinguishing feature of passport cards is RFID, which stands for vicinity-read radio frequency identification. This chip is placed inside each card and is linked to a record in a protected government database. The chip itself is not encrypted with any information, so no personal information is at risk. The chip is simply there to make the entire customs process more efficient.

Applying for passport cards is very similar to applying for a passport book. Applicants are required to present the same documents to prove their American citizenship and identity. In fact, it is possible to apply for a passport and passport card at the same time, on the same form. Both documents are typically received in four to six weeks or two to three weeks if they are ordered with expedited processing.

Just as a passport book is good for ten years for adults and five years for children, so is the card. The significant difference comes in the cost. A passport book costs ninety-five dollars for adults while the card is just forty-five dollars. If someone does not plan on flying overseas, they can save a significant amount of money by getting the card instead of the book.

Whether someone requires identification for international land travel or simply needs an alternative to a driver's license for photo ID, the passports card is a cost-effective and convenient option. It is far easier to keep an eye on and just as easy to obtain. For travel outside of the United States via land or sea, this is an excellent option. To find out more information, visit http://www.uspassportnow.com.