Yes, a passport card can often serve as an alternative to a REAL ID for domestic travel within the United States by land and sea. However, it does not meet the requirements for air travel.
Starting June 1, air travel is set to undergo some changes as the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) implements new rules. These developments have left domestic travelers pondering if they can utilize a passport card instead of a REAL ID to board their flights.
To help maximize your Time Off (PTO) this summer and make your journey through airport security as smooth as possible, here's what you need to know before heading to the airport:
Can I use a passport card instead of a REAL ID?
According to the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, both a U.S. passport book and passport card meet the REAL ID requirements, thus serving as acceptable alternatives to a REAL ID. In fact, these documents, along with a handful of others, can stand in for a REAL ID. These alternatives include:
- A passport
- An enhanced driver's license
- DHS Trusted Traveler Cards (Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI, FAST)
- U.S. Department of Defense ID
- Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC)
- Lawful Permanent Resident Card
- Employment Authorization Cards (Form I-766)
It is important to note that standard licenses and IDs remain valid for train or car travel, but for domestic and international flights, a REAL ID or REAL ID compliant document is necessary.
What happens if you arrive at the airport without a REAL ID?
If you fail to bring your REAL ID to the airport, you can expect additional screening, and you'll need other acceptable documents to board your flight.
What you need to know about renewing your passport
For those who rely on their passport for travel within the U.S. and internationally, you'll be glad to know that you can renew it online. Our guide walks you through the process and helps you find a passport acceptance facility or an acceptance agent. Moreover, our guide to passport photo requirements makes it simple to prepare before your trip.
Before assuming that your passport can help you leave the country, check the requirements for a three-month and a six-month valid passport, as some countries demand them.
Privacy experts recommend travelers opt out of TSA facial recognition scans. For more information on why you should do it, refer to our accompanying guide.
In conclusion, while a passport card can replace a REAL ID for domestic flights within the U.S., it cannot be used for international air travel. For international flights, you must use a U.S. passport book or other internationally recognized travel documents such as a foreign-issued passport or certain military IDs.
- Given that a passport card is accepted as an alternative to a REAL ID for domestic travel, one might consider leveraging it for their summer trips to avoid potential delays at the airport.
- For an upcoming trip abroad, it's crucial to remember that a passport card can't serve as a substitute for a U.S. passport book or other internationally recognized travel documents for international air travel.
