This Relatively Unknown ID Lets You Fly Without Having to Get a REAL ID

When the REAL ID enforcement rolled out in 2025 (after multiple extensions), many Americans faced new hurdles: a standard driver’s license no longer sufficed for domestic air travel or access to federal facilities. But there’s an underused alternative that bypasses the DMV altogether: the U.S. passport card. Here’s how to get one, when it works, and when it doesn’t.

What Is the Passport Card, and Who Should Consider It?

The U.S. passport card is a wallet-sized, plastic credential issued by the State Department. It carries the same validity period as a passport book — 10 years for adults (5 years for minors under 16). It functions as both proof of U.S. citizenship and a federally accepted ID.

Importantly, while it is accepted for domestic flights (instead of a REAL ID) and access to federal buildings, it cannot be used for international air travel. It can be used for travel by land or sea to/from Canada, Mexico, Bermuda, and select Caribbean nations. So think, cruises, ferry boats, etc.

If you don’t drive, don’t want to go through the DMV process, and primarily cross borders by car or cruise, the passport card may be a good fit.

How to Obtain a Passport Card: Step-by-Step

1. 1.
   Select it on your application. Use Form DS-11 (for first-time applicants) or DS-82 (if renewing) and indicate you want a passport card (or both card and book) on the same form.
2. 2.
   Gather documentation. You’ll need proof of U.S. citizenship (i.e., certified birth certificate, prior passport), a valid photo ID, one passport photo, and other supporting documents (Social Security, proof of residence).
3. 3.
   Submit your application. First-time applicants must apply in person at an authorized acceptance facility (i.e., some post offices) or a regional passport agency.
4. 4.
   Pay fees. For adults applying for a card (without a book), the cost is lower than a full passport book.
5. 5.
   Renew or replace when needed. When eligible, you may renew by mail (if meeting criteria). Lost or stolen cards require in-person replacement.
6. 6.
   Check processing time. Typically, several weeks. Expedite options may be available via regional offices.

Once issued, you can carry the card as your federally acceptable ID for air travel (domestic) and general identity proof.

Where You Can Use the Passport Card — and Its Limits

Valid uses:

• Domestic air travel within the U.S., as a REAL ID alternative.
• Land or sea travel between the U.S. and Canada, Mexico, Bermuda, and certain Caribbean ports.
• Access to federal facilities requiring REAL ID.
• Everyday ID purposes (banking, identity verification, etc.).

Limits and drawbacks:

• Cannot be used for international flights.
• Not accepted in all Caribbean destinations — some cruise lines or countries may require a full passport book.
• Offers no visa pages, so it’s unsuitable for destinations requiring visas or stamp-based entry.

If you later decide to fly internationally frequently, you’ll need a full passport anyway.

For U.S. citizens who don’t want—or aren’t able—to go through a state DMV’s REAL ID process, the passport card offers a practical alternative. It satisfies federal identification needs for domestic flights and provides border-crossing functionality by land or sea in select regions. While it’s not a substitute for a full passport book if you plan to fly internationally or visit many foreign countries, it can be a cost-effective, hassle-free tool for many Americans. If your travel stays regional and mostly involves car or cruise crossings, the passport card is a smart alternative worth considering.