Passport Card vs. Book in New York

1. What is the difference between a Passport Card and a Book in New York?

A Passport Card is a wallet-sized card that is accepted at land and sea borders when entering the United States from Mexico, Canada, the Caribbean, and Bermuda. It does not provide access to the US visa system or international air travel. A Passport Book is a booklet-style passport that gives the bearer access to all countries that accept US passports, including air travel and the US visa system. The Passport Book is a more comprehensive form of identification than the Passport Card and requires more information to be provided when applying.

2. Does New York accept both Passport Cards and Books as valid forms of identification?

Yes, New York accepts both passport cards and books as valid forms of identification.

3. Is a Passport Card accepted as valid proof of citizenship in New York?

No, a Passport Card is not accepted as valid proof of citizenship in New York. Acceptable forms of citizenship identification in New York State include a valid U.S. passport, certificate of naturalization, certificate of citizenship, or a current foreign passport with a valid U.S. visa and I-94.

4. What are the fees associated with obtaining a Passport Card or Book in New York?

For a first-time applicant in New York, the fees for a passport book or card are $145 for adults, and $115 for minors age 15 and younger. The fee covers both the application fee and the execution fee.

5. How long is a Passport Card valid for in New York?

In New York, Passport Cards are valid for 10 years for adults and 5 years for children.

6. How long is a Passport Book valid for in New York?

A Passport Book is generally valid for ten years from the date it was issued for adults. For minors (under 16 years old) the validity period is five years.

7. Are there age restrictions for obtaining a Passport Card or Book in New York?

Yes, individuals must be at least 16 years old to obtain a passport card or book in New York. Minors under 16 must have both parents or legal guardians present to apply.

8. Can a Passport Card or Book be used as a form of photo identification in New York?

Yes, a passport card or book can be used as a form of photo identification in New York.

9. Are both the Passport Card and the Book accepted for international travel from New York?

Yes, both the Passport Card and the Book are accepted for international travel from New York.

10. Is a background check required for obtaining a Passport Card or Book in New York?

Yes, a background check is required for obtaining a passport book or card in New York. All applicants must complete Form DS-11 and submit a passport photo. Applicants aged 16 or over must also present valid identification such as a driver’s license or a government-issued ID. Applicants 18 and older must provide proof of U.S. citizenship, such as a birth certificate or naturalization certificate, and all applicants must submit to an FBI background check.

11. Is a passport card or book required to enter the US from New York?

Yes, a passport book is required to enter the US from New York. Passport cards are valid for land and sea travel between the United States, Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Bermuda, but they do not provide access to other countries.

12. What documents are needed to apply for a passport card or book in New York?

In order to apply for a passport card or book in New York, you will need to provide proof of identity (such as a valid driver’s license), proof of U.S. citizenship (such as a birth certificate or certificate of naturalization), a Social Security card, two identical passport photos, and a completed application form. You may also need to provide additional documentation if you are renewing your passport or if you have ever changed your name.

13. Are additional fees required to renew a passport card or book in New York?

Yes. The current fee for a passport book renewal for adults in New York is $110, and the fee for a passport card renewal is $30. Both fees include the mandatory $35 execution fee.

14. Are passport cards or books accepted as valid forms of identification in all of New York’s counties?

No, passport cards or books are not accepted as valid forms of identification in all of New York’s counties. Passport cards or books may be accepted as valid forms of identification in some counties, but not all.

15. Can both the passport card and the book be used to apply for jobs in New York?

No, the passport card cannot be used to apply for jobs. The passport book is the only form of identification that is accepted by employers in New York as valid proof of identity and work eligibility.

16. Is it necessary to present a passport card or book when applying for driver’s licenses in New York?

Yes, it is necessary to present a passport card or book when applying for driver’s licenses in New York. The passport will be used to verify the applicant’s identity and other personal information.

17. Can a passport card or book be used as proof of residence in New York?

No, a passport card or book cannot be used as proof of residence in New York. To prove residency in New York, residents must provide two documents that prove name and residential address. Acceptable documents include: a driver’s license, non-driver ID, utility bill, lease agreement, voter registration card, pay stub, vehicle registration, or bank statement.

18. Are there any restrictions on where passport cards and books can be used within New York?

Yes, passport cards and books can only be used for land or sea travel between the United States, Canada, Mexico, Bermuda, and the Caribbean. They are not valid for international air travel.

19. Can a passport card or book be used to register to vote in New York?

No, a passport card or book cannot be used to register to vote in New York. The New York State Board of Elections requires that individuals use a valid New York State driver’s license or non-driver ID card, or a copy of a current utility bill, bank statement, paycheck, or other government document that shows your name and address.

20. Does New York have any special requirements for passport cards and books issued within its borders?

Yes, New York has certain requirements for passport cards and books issued within its borders. All U.S. citizens who apply for a passport card or book from a passport acceptance facility in New York must provide proof of identity and proof of U.S. citizenship. The applicant must also provide two color photographs meeting the requirements set by the Department of State. Additionally, all applicants must pay the necessary fees.