Passport Card vs Real ID: Which One Do You Need?
In today’s world, having the proper identification is essential for travel within and outside the United States. With two commonly used forms of identification – the passport card and the Real ID – many people may be confused about which one to choose and when to use them. This article will break down the differences between the two and provide guidance on which one you may need for your specific needs.
Passport Card:
The passport card is a wallet-sized card that can be used for land and sea travel between the United States, Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Bermuda. It is a more affordable alternative to a traditional passport book, costing only $65 for first-time applicants and $30 for renewals. The card is valid for 10 years for adults and five years for children under 16.
One of the main advantages of the passport card is its convenience for travel to these specific regions. If you live near the border with Canada or Mexico and frequently travel by land or sea, the passport card may be a more cost-effective option for you. It is also easy to carry around in a wallet or purse, making it convenient for quick trips across the border.
However, there are limitations to the passport card. It cannot be used for international air travel, so if you plan on flying to another country, you will need a traditional passport book. Additionally, some countries may not accept the passport card as a valid form of identification, so it is important to check the entry requirements of your destination before traveling.
Real ID:
The Real ID is a new form of identification that was introduced as a result of the REAL ID Act, which was passed by Congress in 2005. It is a driver’s license or state-issued ID that meets federal government standards for boarding domestic flights and entering federal facilities, such as military bases and nuclear power plants. The Real ID has a star in the upper right corner to indicate that it is compliant with these standards.
The main advantage of the Real ID is its versatility. It can be used for domestic air travel, as well as for entering federal facilities, such as courthouses and military bases. It is also accepted as a valid form of identification for voting and accessing certain government services. Many states have already begun issuing Real IDs to their residents, so it may be more convenient for you to obtain one if you do not already have a passport.
However, obtaining a Real ID can be a more time-consuming and costly process than getting a passport card. You will need to provide additional documentation, such as a birth certificate and proof of residency, to obtain a Real ID. The cost of a Real ID varies by state, but it is generally between $10 and $50. Additionally, not all states are compliant with the Real ID Act, so you may need to check with your state’s Department of Motor Vehicles to see if you are eligible to obtain a Real ID.
Which One Do You Need?
The decision of whether to get a passport card or a Real ID depends on your specific travel needs and preferences. If you plan on traveling frequently to Canada, Mexico, or the Caribbean by land or sea, the passport card may be the best option for you. It is convenient, affordable, and easy to carry around for quick trips across the border.
On the other hand, if you plan on flying domestically within the United States or need to access federal facilities, a Real ID may be the better choice. It is versatile and can be used for a variety of purposes, including air travel, entering federal buildings, and voting. Additionally, if you already have a driver’s license or state-issued ID, obtaining a Real ID may be a more streamlined process for you.
Ultimately, the decision of whether to get a passport card or a Real ID comes down to your individual needs and preferences. It is important to consider where you will be traveling and what forms of identification are accepted at your destination. Whichever option you choose, having the proper identification will ensure a smooth and hassle-free travel experience.
