Passport book vs. passport card

The card is cheaper and fits in a wallet, but it only works at land and sea borders with Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Bermuda.

steps

1. Step 1

   Decide whether you'll ever fly internationally

   If yes, you need the book. The card is never valid for international air travel, not even to Canada.

2. Step 2

   Consider the card as backup ID

   It's a federally issued photo ID that satisfies REAL ID requirements for domestic flights, and it's much cheaper to replace than a book.

3. Step 3

   Apply for both on one form

   Check both boxes on the DS-11 or DS-82 and pay both product fees — you only pay the $35 execution fee once.

4. Step 4

   Track their separate arrival

   The book and card ship in different envelopes and can arrive days apart. Don't panic if only one shows up first.