Can you get back into the US with a passport card?

Can you get back into the US with a passport card?

If you are wondering whether you can use a passport card to reenter the United States, the answer is yes. A passport card is a valid document that allows you to enter the US by land or sea from Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Bermuda. However, it is important to note that a passport card cannot be used for international travel by air. So, if you are planning to travel by plane, you will need to have a traditional passport book.

The passport card is a convenient alternative to the traditional passport book, especially for those who frequently travel to neighboring countries by land or sea. It is smaller in size, similar to a credit card, and can easily fit into your wallet. The application process for a passport card is also simpler and more cost-effective than that of a passport book.

FAQs about getting back into the US with a passport card

1. Can I use a passport card to travel internationally by air?

No, a passport card is not valid for international air travel. If you are flying internationally, you must have a traditional passport book.

2. What countries can I visit with a passport card?

You can use a passport card to visit Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Bermuda. These are the only countries that accept a passport card for entry.

3. Can I use a passport card to enter the US by land or sea?

Yes, a passport card is specifically designed for entry into the US from Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Bermuda by land or sea.

4. How long does it take to get a passport card?

The processing time for a passport card is generally quicker than that of a passport book. It can take approximately 4-8 weeks for routine processing, or 2-3 weeks for expedited processing. However, it is recommended to apply well in advance of your travel plans.

5. Can I use a passport card as proof of identification?

Yes, a passport card can serve as a valid form of identification within the United States. However, it is important to note that some establishments, such as banks or government offices, may require a traditional ID card.

6. How long is a passport card valid for?

A passport card is valid for 10 years if you are 16 years of age or older when it is issued. For applicants under the age of 16, the passport card is valid for 5 years.

7. Can I use a passport card for international cruises?

Yes, a passport card can be used for trips on international cruises that begin and end in the US and make stops only in Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, or Bermuda.

8. Is a passport card accepted for travel to other countries?

No, a passport card is only accepted for entry into Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Bermuda. For travel to other countries, you will need a traditional passport book.

9. Can I apply for a passport card if I already have a passport book?

Yes, it is possible to apply for a passport card even if you already have a traditional passport book. The two documents can be used interchangeably depending on your travel needs.

10. Can I use a passport card to enter the US from other countries?

No, a passport card is only valid for entry into the US from Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Bermuda. If you are traveling from other countries, you will need a traditional passport book.

11. Can I use a passport card for domestic travel within the US?

Yes, a passport card can be used as a form of identification for domestic travel within the United States. However, it is not mandatory and other forms of identification, such as a driver’s license, are typically sufficient.

12. Can I use a passport card to enter the US if I am a US citizen?

Yes, US citizens can use a passport card to enter the United States from Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Bermuda by land or sea. It is an official form of identification issued by the US Department of State.