As of June 1, 2009, anyone entering the United States from another country will need to show a passport. Even U. S. Citizens who were formerly able to re-enter the country with minimal documentation from Canada, Mexico, Bermuda or the Caribbean must now show a passport or a USA Passport card to re-enter the country. All persons flying into the country must have the passport book.

The new passport card is conveniently sized to fit into your wallet. It is less expensive than the passport book, however, is valid for the same amount of time. Adults with a valid passport book can apply for the card for only $20. Although processing times for both the passport book and passport card are approximately the same, it may take a little longer to get the card as it is only shipped by mail and the overnight delivery is not an option.

If you have had a passport in the past, then you will need to use a renewal form to get the passport card. If you have never had a passport of any type, you will need to apply in person for either your initial passport book or card. To make the initial application, you will need to fill out for DS-11 and have the correct identification and payment for your passport. If you intend to fly into the country at any time you must have the passport book.

Your passport card will include a RFID chip that does not store personal information, but does allow your information to be brought up from the secure government database maintained by the state department. This allows the customs officials to see your photographs and biographical information that was stored in the database when you applied for the passport card. The State Department has embedded security features into the card that help to deter forgery or counterfeiting of the card. You will want to keep your card in the sleeve that comes with it, as it prevents the RFID chip from being read by unauthorized persons.

Residents living in border communities will find the card most useful. It allows for easy border crossings for purposes of shopping, visiting or other business, and then a return home. Remember that the card is not valid for air travel, so if you plan to fly out of the country, you will need the passport book.

The new rules about acceptable identification for re-entering the country also affects commercial cruise passengers. Formerly, these passengers were able to re-enter the country using alternate identification, but now they must have a passport book or card. Most cruise companies will not allow you to board the ship without proper identification and your ticket will not be refunded.

If you plan to visit countries outside of the U. S. you will need some kind of passport for the visit. The best plan is to apply for the passport early. While most passports are currently being returned within three to four weeks from the time of application, the best policy is to apply six to eight weeks before you intend to travel. If you plan to travel within fourteen days, you will want to apply for an expedited passport.

The U S passport card and the book are valid for ten years if you are over sixteen years old. Apply now for your pasport and avoid the rush.


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