Already have a valid U.S. passport book and wondering how to get a passport card when you have a passport? The good news is that eligible U.S. citizens can apply for a passport card even if they already have a passport book. A passport card is a convenient, wallet-sized travel document designed primarily for certain land and sea crossings.
Can You Get a Passport Card If You Already Have a Passport?
Yes. If you have an adult passport book and meet the requirements to renew by mail, you can use Form DS-82 to apply for a passport card. Importantly, this can be your first passport card—you do not need to have previously owned one. The U.S. Department of State specifically allows an eligible passport-book holder to apply for a passport card as a renewal.
You can also apply for a passport book and passport card together when submitting a new application or renewal. Having both documents can be useful if you regularly travel internationally and want the convenience of a wallet-sized card for eligible land or sea travel.
What Is a U.S. Passport Card?
A U.S. passport card is a wallet-sized, plastic passport that serves as proof of U.S. citizenship and identity. It has the same validity period as a passport book: generally 10 years for adults and 5 years for children under 16.
The passport card is particularly useful for travelers who frequently cross certain borders by land or sea. It can be used for entry into the United States from Canada, Mexico, Bermuda, and some Caribbean destinations by land or sea. However, a passport card cannot be used for international air travel. For international flights, you generally need a passport book.
How to Apply for a Passport Card
If you already have an adult passport book and qualify for passport renewal by mail, start by completing Form DS-82. Select the passport card option and follow the Department of State's instructions for submitting your application, supporting documents, passport photo, and applicable fee.
For an adult passport-card renewal, the current application fee is $30. Fees can change, so check the latest official fee information before submitting your application.
If you are not eligible to renew by mail, your application requirements may be different. The Department of State provides a form and fee guide to help applicants determine the appropriate application process.
Passport Card vs. Passport Book
The biggest difference is how you can use each document. A passport book is designed for international travel by air, land, and sea. A passport card is smaller and convenient but has more limited travel uses. It can also be used with Ready Lanes at certain U.S. land borders, including crossings involving Mexico and Canada.
If you frequently travel to nearby countries by car, bus, or boat, a passport card can be a convenient addition to your existing passport book.
Bottom Line
If you already have a passport book, you may be able to get a U.S. passport card without starting from scratch. Eligible adult passport holders can apply for their first passport card using Form DS-82 when renewing by mail. Before applying, verify your eligibility, current fees, documentation requirements, and travel needs through the official U.S. Department of State passport resources.