Our New Passports Arrived.

[zipplewrath]

21. Passport Card

When one gets a passport, for an additional fee, one can also get a "passport card". It is not a replacement for a passport, but it is a drivers license sized card which can be used as "Real ID" compliant identification. It also has a variety of uses like on cruises and such. I've found it a handy alternative to a drivers license. I travel a fair amount on business and it is well received by TSA and other government agencies demanding ID. Also, it is a nice "back up" in case my license goes missing for whatever reason. Also, when traveling internationally, it makes it easier to get a replacement Passport/ID in order to get home.

One bit of information that is wrong on most travel sites. They'll state that it CANNOT be use for "air travel". That's not true. It can be used for internal/domestic air travel. It cannot be used for international arrivals. However, once in the US, the TSA will accept it as ID. I keep it in my carry-on/laptop case with some other cards. It's actually easier for me to get out/put back than my license and the TSA folks all recognize it around the country.

It's about $30 additional when you get a passport. Not for everyone, but for some of us it makes sense.