In years past, the only true form of international identification
was the passport. However, in the United States, a passport was not
needed for border trips to Canada and Mexico. Today, laws are much more
restrictive and passports are needed to cross in and out of the country
regardless of how close the final destination is to the U.S. If a trip
is coming up in the near future, an expedited passport card can be used
in place of a regular passport.
The traveler who truly travels the
world will still need a regular passport, but someone who merely visits
the Caribbean, Mexico and Canada does not need an actual passport. For
this type of trip, the passport card is perfectly acceptable. It is very
similar in appearance to a license, except it is issued by the State
Department and can be substituted for a passport for certain
destinations.
A passport card can be obtained in the same manner
as a passport. All of the forms are the same as is the entire process.
An added benefit if getting a passport card is that it is also much less
expensive than a regular passport. A quick Internet search will show
the post office or other agency where they can be obtained.
The
card itself does have restrictions on it. It was made in place of a
passport for areas that had never really required passport documentation
from the United States before. Also, it cannot be used for air travel
at all. This card is meant for cruise traveler and actual border
crossings to places like Mexico. Now, instead of only needed a valid
driver's license, the passport card serves as the official accepted ID.
A
passport card makes use of some of the most advanced technologies out
there today in regards to protecting ones identity. Both electronic
coding and art laser engraving are used to make sure that the document
cannot be counterfeited. It almost seems as though the technology on the
cards gets better and more secure every year.
When an applicant
is ready to apply for the card, they will follow the same exact
guidelines that are in place for a passport. A passport photo, valid
government issued ID and proof of citizenship is required for the
application to be passed through. The fee, however, is much less and
there is also a small discount offered to those that want to get both a
passport and a passport card.
One thing to make note of is that
when applying for a passport, all documentation must be the original
forms. If anything is laminated or copied, it will not be accepted. If
the documents are being mailed in for renewal, be sure to use a major
overnight service that will provide tracking detail and guarantee
delivery.
Many people will wonder why they should use an expedited passport card
service instead of just getting a regular passport. While it is always a
good idea to have a passport, carrying it can be a bit of a challenge.
When traveling to border countries, the passport card fits into the
wallet and can be used as a substitute for passports.
