Jul 6 2010
Consider Getting A U S Passport ID Card For Convenient International Trips
In todays world, it is a good idea to have photo identification on hand at all times, even for domestic travel. In the case of international travel, this is not only advised, but required, and yet many people still do not have a passport. For travel that does not require a flight, a US passport ID card is a convenient alternative to a typical passport.
Passport cards are official documents that the Department of State issues and they look very much like a normal drivers license. It is actually a great alternative form of identification for people who may not have a valid drivers license for some reason. More than 2 million cards have been granted to US citizens since they were initially introduced in the summer of 2008.
The main thing that distinguishes the passport card from a traditional passport is that it cannot be used for international air travel. It can, however, be used for land border crossing in and out of the US. This means that it is an appropriate form of identification for travel between the US and Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean or Bermuda. This makes it perfect for road trips and cruises but remember that, even in these nearby countries, passport cards cannot be used for air travel.
Although it cannot be used for all types of travel, there are many reasons to apply for this form of identification. Anyone who has ever traveled internationally knows that they spend every other minute checking their bags to make sure that their passport is where they left it. Passport cards can be kept conveniently in a wallet, so there is no need to go searching for them either on or prior to a trip.
The feature that makes passport cards so truly unique is the vicinity-read radio frequency identification, or RFID chip in each card. Each chip contains a unique number, which is associated with records in a secure government database. Since there is no information written on the chip itself, holders can rest easy that their privacy is not being violated. The chip simply makes passing through a border quicker and more efficient.
Applying for a passport book and applying for a card are nearly the exact same process. The same required documents apply proving both identity and citizenship. Applicants can even use the same application to get both the book and the card. They both take about five weeks to be processed and can both be received within three weeks with accelerated processing.
Just like a traditional passport, the card is has a ten year validity for adults and expires in five years for minors. Where the two documents differ greatly is in the cost to obtain one. Adults must pay ninety-five dollars for a passport but can receive a card for only forty-five. This is a considerable savings for the traveler who does not intend to fly overseas.
Whether traveling over a land border or simply looking for an alternate form of photo identification, the new passport cards is a wonderful alternative to the long-established passport. It does not require any additional paperwork or information and is easy to keep track of at all times. For international travel over land or sea, this is the most convenient and efficient way to go. Go to http://www.uspassportnow.com to find out more.
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