what is a passport card

A passport card is an optional national identity card and a travel document issued by the U.S. federal government in the size of a credit card. It was created as a result of the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative to meet the needs of U.S. citizens who travel from Canada, Mexico, Bermuda, and Caribbean countries by land or sea. The passport card cannot be used for international air travel and is a cheaper alternative to the passport book. It is designed for entering the United States at land border crossings and sea ports-of-entry from the specified countries. The card is considered a "List A" document that may be presented by newly hired employees during the employment eligibility verification process to show work authorized status. It can be used as primary evidence of United States citizenship and as a valid proof of citizenship and proof of identity both inside and outside the United States. However, it does not contain any pages for visas or immigration stamps, and immigration authorities in other countries may not recognize it as proof of U.S. citizenship. The cost for first-time applicants is $65 for adults and $50 for children under age 16, and the cost for renewal is $30 for adults