To get a U.S. passport card, you can follow these steps depending on whether you already have a passport book or not: If you already have a valid U.S. passport book:
- Complete Form DS-82 (Application for a U.S. Passport by Mail).
- Provide your current U.S. passport book, a recent color photo, and the passport card application fee.
- Submit your application by mail.
- Your passport card will be mailed to you after processing, typically within 4 to 6 weeks
If you do not have a passport book (first-time applicant):
- Fill out Form DS-11 (Application for a U.S. Passport).
- Provide proof of U.S. citizenship (such as a birth certificate), a valid form of identification, a recent color photo, and the passport card application fee.
- Submit your application in person at a U.S. Passport Acceptance Facility (e.g., post office, library).
- Your passport card will be mailed to you after approval, usually within 4 to 6 weeks
Additional details:
- The passport card is only valid for land and sea travel between the U.S., Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Bermuda; it is not valid for international air travel.
- You must be a U.S. citizen to be eligible.
- You can choose normal or expedited shipping for faster delivery, though processing times vary
In summary, if you already have a passport book, you can apply for a passport card by mail using Form DS-82. If you don't, you must apply in person using Form DS-11. The card will be mailed to your address after approval
