U.S. Citizens are facing a travel choice, that for some seems more like a dilemma: "Do they need a passport? If so, should they get a passport book or passport card? Which is better?" Even with gas prices hovering at $4 and $5 a gallon, people around the nation are still traveling. Summer is a prime vacation travel time, and many travelers have plans to travel overseas, on tours and on cruises that will take them into foreign ports of call, so these are very valid questions. If you and your family have plans to travel outside the country, you want to be sure to have all your documentation ducks in a row before leaving home.
One of the first things you need to check on is U.S. passport requirements. This year, travelers have a choice. They can choose between getting a passport card or a passport book. As a YTB Travel Referring Travel Agent, it is my delight to help you navigate these waters and make the best decision for you and your family.
First you need to understand what the differences are. Use the information below to help you determine which option best suits your needs.
PASSPORT BOOK
Valid for travel by air, sea or land
Validity:• 10 years for adults
• 5 years for minors
Size:
5” x 3 ½” (when unopened)
Cost for first time applicants:
• $100 for adults
• $85 for minors
Cost for U.S. Passport book renewal:
• $75 for adults
PASSPORT CARD
Not for travel by air. Valid for land and sea
crossings between the U.S. and Canada,
Mexico, Bermuda and the Caribbean only.
Validity:• 10 years for adults
• 5 years for minors
Size:
Wallet size
Cost for first time applicants:• $45 for adults
• $35 for minors
Cost for U.S. Passport book holders:• $20 for adults
If you apply for both documents at the same time, the cost for first time applicants is: Adults: $120 and Minors: $95
As you can see by the information above, while both cards are similar and have advantages, there are a few major differences:
1. Only the passport book can be used for travel by air; the passport card cannot. The passport card is restricted to land and sea travel.
2. The passport book can be used to travel worldwide. This is not the case with the passport card because it can only be used for travel to the Caribbean, Mexico, Bermuda, and Canada.
3. A major difference is the cost. The cost for getting a new or renewal passport book costs considerably more that the cost off getting a passport card.
For additional information about passports and to apply, visit:
Regina's YTB Travel Website, EZ4U Travel & Tours
and
The US Government Passport website
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Regina Osei is a successful mentor and coach who teaches her YTB Team members and other business owners how to succeed in business and how to market their businesses using diverse strategies and approaches both online and offline. If you are interested in starting your own online travel business and want the benefit of a mentor who is committed to your success, join our team today at http://regina.vacationmedia.net. If you have questions, e-mail me at: reginaosei@gmail.com or call 901-221-1630(1)
3 comments:
I am hoping (saving my pennies) to go to Barbados in a few months. Do you know if I need a passport for that (yikes it adds $100 to the trip) or will the Passport Card Work
If you are not traveling by air, you can use the passport card. Otherwise, you'll need a passport. Have a wonderful trip!
I didn't know that the passport card even existed. I don't see the point in getting it though when you can just get a passport book that covers everything. The difference in cost between the two isn't significant enough to worry about.
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