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I keep getting asked the question, “Can I just get the Passport Card?”
The answer to that question is it depends. Where are you traveling first of all? If you are only going to travel to Canada and Mexico, then yes, by all means the Passport Card is the best, less expensive option. But if you are wanting to do a Mediterranean cruise next summer, then no, you will need a Passport Book.
Tips for Obtaining Your Passport Quickly
1) Passport Photos are critical, and not all providers meet government standards. As your travel advisor, you can ask me about the passport photo rules to ensure you are following the requirements before submitting. Actually I had my passport photo taken at Walgreens, they follow government rules and regulations for passport photos. You can also have it retaken if you don’t like it. (For a fee).
2) Go to https://www.Travel.State.gov; this will take you to the US Dept. of State, and it will tell you how to apply for your passport.
3) The fees are Passport Book = $130.00; Passport Card = $65 (But remember, the passport card will only allow you to re-enter the US from Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Bermuda at a Land border crossing or sea port-of-entry. It will not allow you to fly internationally. First time passport card holders the price is $30 for the card; $35 for processing fee, after that it is $30 to renew. You can also purchase both the Passport Book and Card for $195.00
4) You will also need to send in a copy of your original birth certificate, one with the official seal. You can get a copy of this at the Health Department if you lost yours.
5) After you have all your paperwork printed out, and your photo you must call and make an appointment with the Post Office nearest you that does passports. Make sure you go on your appointment day.
6) Processing your passport takes 8 – 11 weeks so start early so you are not disappointed and have to cancel your trip due to not receiving your passport in time.
7) When traveling internationally, your passport has to be valid for up to 6 months beyond your travel date. Otherwise, renew.
8) Passports are valid for 10 years for anyone over the age of 16.
Hope this helps settle the question as to which is better, the Passport Card vs. the Passport Book. I will take the Passport Book please!
