As the Real ID Act deadlines loom, many Americans are wondering about acceptable forms of identification for air travel. While the Real ID Act aims to standardize identification for domestic flights, you might be surprised to learn that a Real ID driver’s license isn’t the only option. If you’re concerned about obtaining a Real ID or simply seeking a convenient alternative, a passport card could be your answer to stress-free domestic air travel.
Many people are aware that a U.S. passport book is a valid form of ID for flying, but carrying your passport book for domestic flights might feel like overkill, not to mention the risk of loss or damage. Transportation Security Administration (TSA) itself suggests considering alternatives for domestic travel due to these concerns.
What is a Passport Card?
Think of a passport card as the wallet-friendly version of a passport book. It’s issued by the U.S. Department of State and holds the same citizenship verification as a passport book, but in a credit card-sized format. This compact size makes it incredibly convenient to carry in your wallet or purse, just like a driver’s license.
Jared Tharp, a representative from Passport Services at the U.S. Department of State, highlights the passport card’s practicality: “The use for a card is generally for land and sea travels… [and] is acceptable identification for domestic flights”. This means you can breeze through TSA checkpoints for flights within the United States with just your passport card.
Passport Card vs. Passport Book: Which to Use?
While both passport cards and passport books prove U.S. citizenship, their uses differ primarily in travel scope. A passport book remains essential for international air travel. According to Tharp, “you wouldn’t be able to board an international flight using a passport card,” and “A passport book would be good for everything.”
However, for domestic flights, the passport card shines as a convenient and less cumbersome option. It offers the necessary identification for TSA without the bulk of a passport book. Consider the passport card as your “passport lite” – perfect for travel within the U.S., and also for land and sea border crossings to Canada and Mexico.
Cost-Effective and Long-Lasting
Beyond convenience, the passport card also presents a significant cost advantage. Acquiring a passport card is considerably cheaper than a passport book. While a passport book for adults costs $110, a passport card for adults is only $30.
Both options offer long-term validity. For adults, both the passport card and passport book are valid for 10 years. This long validity period ensures that your investment in a passport card provides reliable identification for domestic flights for a decade.
Fly with Confidence Using Your Passport Card
In conclusion, if you’re seeking a hassle-free and cost-effective way to ensure you can fly domestically after the Real ID deadline, a U.S. passport card is an excellent solution. It’s officially accepted by TSA, easy to carry, and valid for ten years. Knowing you have options beyond just a Real ID driver’s license empowers you to choose the best form of identification for your travel needs. Consider a passport card as your smart and practical travel companion for domestic adventures.
