I’ve been traveling the last few years outside of the USA, but I’d like to get a USA Passport Card. Reasons: I’d like a wallet-sized USA ID, and it is valid for USA Real ID, which can be used on planes domestic in 2025.

Does anyone know how to do this as an expat?

My specific questions I can’t track down answers to:

  1. If I apply for a Passport CARD, can I travel with my Passport BOOK while the card is being processed?
  2. Will the Passport CARD have the same number as the Passport BOOK?
  3. Do I need to do this all in the USA, or can I do it while abroad?

Thanks.

  • Hausmannlife_Schweiz@alien.topBEnglish
    1·
    1 year ago

    I know that you can do it from abroad, as I had the option when I renewed my passport this past spring.

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    I don’t see the benefit for you though. You are still going to have to bring your regular passport with you when you travel back to the US; so you will still have your regular passport with you. I think the card is only good as a passport to other places in North America.

    Might as well just go get a real ID next time you are visiting your old state it will be cheaper.

  • Argentina4Ever@alien.topBEnglish
    1·
    1 year ago

    1. Passport CARD can only be used on land borders of Mexico and Canada, your Passport Book can be used wherever you want, every country will always accept the book but countries other than Canada and Mexico will not accept the CARD.

    2. No, these are different documents, the passport CARD was made just to make it more convenient for those who live by the Canadian or Mexican border to come and go from the countries without having to carry the Passport Book.

    3. I believe it can only be issued in the US, the passport CARD has a very specific user case and won’t be issued in say an US Embassy in Australia.