US passport card how long does it take

If you are planning a trip and need a passport card you may be wondering how long it takes to get one. The processing time for a US passport card is generally 4-6 weeks from the time of application. However, it can take longer if there are any issues with your application such as missing documents or incorrect information.

At this point you may be feeling overwhelmed by the process of obtaining a US passport card. But don't worry; we are here to guide you through the process step by step. In this guide, we will walk you through the application process, provide tips for filling out the forms correctly and offer advice on how to avoid common mistakes. By the end of this guide, you will be well on your way to obtaining your US passport card and confidently embarking on your travel adventure.

What exactly is a US passport card?

A US passport card is a travel document issued by the United States Department of State that serves as a wallet-sized alternative to the traditional US passport book. It is designed to be used for land and sea travel between the United States, Canada, the Caribbean, Mexico and Bermuda. The US passport card is not valid for international air travel.

The card contains a passport holder's photograph, personal identification information and a unique identification number. It is equipped with RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) technology which allows for quick and efficient processing at border crossings.

The US passport card is a convenient and cost-effective option for US citizens who frequently travel to the countries listed above. It is also a useful form of identification for everyday use such as opening a bank account or applying for a job.

What are the requirements for US passport card?

You must meet certain requirements and provide specific documentation to obtain a US passport card. Here's what you need to know:

  • US citizenship: To apply for a US passport card you must be a US citizen. This can be proven through various documents such as a certified birth certificate, a previous US passport or a naturalization certificate.

  • Passport application form: The passport application form (Form DS-11) is the standard application for a US passport card. A passport acceptance agent must complete and accurately complete it and sign it.

  • Evidence of citizenship: You must provide evidence of your citizenship when applying for a US passport card. This can be a certified birth certificate, a previous US passport or a certificate of naturalization among other documents.

  • Photo identification: You must provide a government-issued photo identification such as a driver's license or state-issued identification card to prove your identity when applying for a US passport card.

  • Passport photo: A recent passport photo must be submitted with your passport application. The photo must meet specific requirements like size, quality and background.

  • Fees: There are various fees associated with obtaining a US passport card including an application fee and an execution fee. The fees may vary depending on your age whether it's your first passport and how quickly you need it.

US passport card fee

The fee for a US passport card varies depending on several factors such as the applicant's age whether it's a first-time application and how quickly the applicant needs the card. As of April 2023, here are the standard fees for a US passport card:

  • First-time adult applicant (age 16 and older): $65 application fee + $35 execution fee = $100 total fee

  • Adult renewal applicant (age 16 and older): $30 application fee (no execution fee required)

  • First-time minor applicant (under age 16): $50 application fee + $35 execution fee = $85 total fee

  • Minor renewal applicant (under age 16): $50 application fee (no execution fee required)

  • Expedited processing is available for an additional fee of $60 per application which can shorten the processing time to 2-3 weeks.

How to get a US passport card?

There are two ways to obtain a US passport card:

  • With your existing passport book: If you already have a valid US passport book you can apply for a US passport card by mail using Form DS-82. You will need to submit your current passport book along with your application as well as a recent passport photo and the applicable fees. The processing time for this option is generally 4-6 weeks.

  • In-person, if you do not have a passport book: If you do not have a valid US passport book you must apply for a US passport card in person at a passport acceptance facility or regional agency using Form DS-11. You will need to provide proof of citizenship, photo identification, a recent passport photo and the applicable fees. The processing time for this option varies depending on the agency but expedited service is available for an additional fee.

Regardless of which option you choose, it's important to fill out the application accurately and completely and to provide all required documentation and fees. You can find more information on the official website of the US Department of State.

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This article was published by VisaHQ, a world leader in visa processing. Since 2003, VisaHQ has 20 offices in 6 countries and has helped countless tourist, business travellers, diplomats, workers, and students obtain their visa. With a 4.42 star rating on Reviews.io, VisaHQ is committed to innovation, service, security, and simplicity in the visa application process.
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