Passport Card vs. Passport Book — Can I Use a Passport Card Instead?

📍 What Is the Difference?

The U.S. government issues two types of passport documents:

• Passport Book

• Passport Card

They serve different travel purposes.

✈️ When Can I Use a Passport Card?

You may use a passport card for:

• Travel by land only into Mexico

• Travel by land only into Canada

• Domestic travel within the United States (as an alternative to a Real ID or passport book)

🚫 When Can I NOT Use a Passport Card?

You cannot use a passport card for:

• International air travel

• International sea travel (cruise ships)

• Entry into countries other than Mexico or Canada by land

For international flights, a passport book is required.

🧾 How to Apply for a Passport Card

Swift can assist you with obtaining a passport card.

If You Already Have a Passport Book

To apply for a passport card only:

• Complete Form DS-82

• Select “passport card only”

• Submit your current passport book with your application documents

If You Are Renewing Both Book and Card

You must submit:

• Your expired passport book

• Your expired passport card

• Renewal application documents

Both documents must be included together.

⚠️ Important Notes

• Passport cards are limited-use travel documents

• They cannot replace a passport book for international flights

• Government approval and issuance timelines apply

Swift cannot override U.S. government travel requirements.