What is the Difference Between Passport Book and Passport Card?

The main differences between a passport book and a passport card are their usage, validity, cost, and size. Here is a comparison of the two:

• Usage: Passport books are accepted for all forms of international travel to all international destinations, whereas passport cards are only acceptable for land and sea transportation to Canada, Mexico, Caribbean countries, and Bermuda.
• Validity: For travelers aged 16 or older, passport books are valid for 10 years, while those for younger travelers are valid for 5 years. Passport cards do not have the same age-based validity period, but generally remain valid for up to 10 years from the date of issuance.
• Cost: Passport books are more expensive than cards. First-time applicants aged 16 and older pay $135, while those under 16 pay $130. Passport cards cost $65 for first-time applicants aged 16 and older, and $50 for younger applicants.
• Size: Unlike passport books, which are small booklets, passport cards are wallet-sized, similar to the size of a driver's license.

Both passport books and cards serve as proof of U.S. citizenship and identity, and they can be used as alternatives to a state-issued ID for U.S. citizenship identification for travel and other purposes. It is possible to apply for both a passport book and a passport card at the same time, which can be convenient for travelers who need both documents for different types of travel.

Comparative Table: Passport Book vs Passport Card

Here is a table comparing the differences between a passport book and a passport card:

A passport book is a small booklet used for international travel by air, sea, or land, while a passport card is a more limited form of identification designed for specific needs, such as land border crossings and sea ports-of-entry. The passport card is generally more affordable and convenient for travelers who frequently cross borders by land or sea but do not require the full functionality of a passport book.