Is it Possible to Utilize a Passport Card Instead of a REAL ID for Travel? Here's Essential Information for Travelers Prior to Their Upcoming Flight
In light of recent changes in air travel security, commuters are pondering whether they can use a passport card instead of a REAL ID to board their flights. To help you navigate this summer's much-anticipated vacation days, we've compiled essential information for you.
Can a Passport Card Serve as a REAL ID Alternative?
According to the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, both the U.S. passport book and passport card are compliant with the REAL ID requirements. As such, a passport card can be utilized as a substitute for a REAL ID. Besides the passport, this list includes an Enhanced ID, DHS Trusted Traveler Cards (Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI, FAST), U.S. Department of Defense ID, Transportation Worker ID Credential, Permanent Resident Card, Employment Authorization Cards (Form I-766), and a standard license or ID for train or car travel within the United States.
Consequences of Arriving without a REAL ID
Travelers arriving at the airport without a REAL ID should anticipate additional screenings. Other qualifying documentation will be necessary to board your flight.
Renewing Your Passport
If you intend to rely on your passport for both domestic and international travel, you can renew it online—our guide will walk you through the process, and we'll even help you locate a passport acceptance agency or facility. Our guide on passport photo regulations will streamline the process before your vacation.
Don't forget to review the "three-month passport rules" and "six-month passport rules" for certain countries, as they may impact your trip.
Travelers and TSA Face Scans
Privacy experts urge travelers to decline TSA face scans, and some reasons may prompt you to consider this option.
In summary, while a U.S. passport card may serve as a REAL ID alternative for domestic commercial flights, you'll need a different approach for international flights, using a traditional passport book. To fully comprehend these options, please refer to the table below for clarity.
| Purpose | Accepted ID Forms ||-------------------------------|-----------------------------------------------------|| Domestic Flights (U.S.) | REAL ID-compliant license/ID, U.S. Passport Book, Passport Card, Military ID, Global Entry Card, Enhanced Driver’s License || International Flights (by air) | U.S. Passport Book only || Land/Sea Border Crossings | Passport Card or Passport Book accepted |
- In the realm of the aerospace industry, travelers have been advised to be aware of the additional screenings that may occur if they fail to present a REAL ID at the airport.
- As summer approaches, it's essential to understand that a passport card, along with several other options like Enhanced IDs, DHS Trusted Traveler Cards, and standard licenses, can serve as alternatives to a REAL ID for domestic travel.
- For financing your lifestyle choices, such as vacations, one can renew their passport online through a guided process, and it's advisable to familiarize yourself with the "three-month passport rules" and "six-month passport rules" for certain countries to avoid any inconvenience during travel.
