Consider Getting A Pasport ID Card For Convenient International Travel

In today’s world of high security measures, nobody should travel without a valid form of photo ID, even domestically. When traveling internationally, proper identification is not just a good idea, it is an absolute requirement. The pasport ID card is a reasonable replacement for a traditional passport that can be used in many travel situations.

Passport cards are official documents that the Department of State issues and they look very much like a normal driver’s license. It is actually a great alternative form of identification for people who may not have a valid driver’s license for some reason. More than 2 million cards have been granted to US citizens since they were initially introduced in the summer of 2008.

The passport card is similar to the conventional passport in many ways, but the main dissimilarity is that the card cannot be used for international flights. It can be used in many situations, though, including crossing the United States border by land or sea. When crossing the border into the Bahamas, Bermuda, Mexico or Canada. When going on a trip by bus, car or boat, this is an excellent form of identification, but cardholders should remember that it can never be used for international flight, even to Canada or Mexico.

Although it cannot be used for all types of travel, there are many reasons to apply for this form of identification. Anyone who has ever traveled internationally knows that they spend every other minute checking their bags to make sure that their passport is where they left it. Passport cards can be kept conveniently in a wallet, so there is no need to go searching for them either on or prior to a trip.

The feature that makes passport cards so truly unique is the vicinity-read radio frequency identification, or RFID chip in each card. Each chip contains a unique number, which is associated with records in a secure government database. Since there is no information written on the chip itself, holders can rest easy that their privacy is not being violated. The chip simply makes passing through a border quicker and 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 like a traditional passport, the card is has a ten year validity for adults and expires in five years for minors.  Where the two documents differ greatly is in the cost to obtain one. Adults must pay ninety-five dollars for a passport but can receive a card for only forty-five. This is a considerable savings for the traveler who does not intend to fly overseas.

Whether someone needs an alternate photo identification card or plans on traveling over land borders, the American passport card is a great option to replace a more expensive and less convenient passport book. No extra paperwork is required to get one and it is far less likely to get lost. This is a great option for international travel across sea or land. Check out US Passport Now for more info.