Can I Use a Passport Card Instead of a REAL ID? Everything You Need to Know
As the deadline for REAL ID enforcement approaches, many Americans are wondering: Can I use a passport card instead of a REAL ID? Whether you're planning domestic travel or just trying to understand what form of identification you need, this guide breaks it all down for you—clearly and completely.
In this post, we’ll explain the differences between a REAL ID and a passport card, where each can be used, and which one you actually need for your next trip or federal visit.
🛫 What Is the REAL ID and Why Does It Matter?
The REAL ID Act was passed by Congress in 2005 to improve security standards for state-issued identification. Starting May 7, 2025, every U.S. traveler aged 18 or older will need a REAL ID-compliant driver's license or another acceptable form of ID to fly within the United States or enter certain federal buildings.
You'll know your license is REAL ID-compliant if it has a star in the upper right-hand corner. If it doesn’t, you'll need to bring an alternative federally accepted ID, such as a U.S. passport book or a passport card.
🪪 What Is a Passport Card?
A passport card is a wallet-sized travel document issued by the U.S. Department of State. It is a valid federal ID and can be used:
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For land and sea travel between the U.S. and Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Bermuda
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As official identification for domestic flights within the U.S.
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To enter federal buildings and nuclear power plants where federally approved IDs are required
But it cannot be used for international air travel.
✅ So, Can You Use a Passport Card Instead of a REAL ID?
Yes, you can. The passport card is accepted by the TSA as a valid form of identification for domestic flights, and it meets the security standards required under the REAL ID Act.
So, if you're wondering, “Do I need a REAL ID if I have a passport card?”—the answer is no, as long as you carry your passport card with you when flying domestically or visiting a federal facility.
🆚 REAL ID vs. Passport Card: Key Differences
| Feature | REAL ID Driver’s License | Passport Card |
|---|---|---|
| Issued By | State DMV | U.S. Department of State |
| Valid for Domestic Flights | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
Valid for International Flights |
❌ No |
❌ No |
Valid for Land/Sea Travel to Canada/Mexico/Caribbean |
❌ No |
✅ Yes |
Accepted at Federal Facilities |
✅ Yes |
✅ Yes |
Cost |
Varies by state (Usually $30-$60) |
$30 (if you already have a passport book) |
✈️ Why Would You Choose a Passport Card Over a REAL ID?
There are a few scenarios where a passport card might be more practical:
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You don’t want to upgrade your driver’s license – Maybe you’ve moved recently, or getting to the DMV feels like a hassle.
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You already have a passport book – Adding a passport card costs less and is easy to apply for.
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You frequently travel to nearby countries by land or sea – Especially Canada, Mexico, or the Caribbean.
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You want a federally approved backup ID – In case you forget your REAL ID or lose your wallet.
📅 REAL ID Deadline: What You Need to Know for 2025
After several delays, the Department of Homeland Security confirmed that the new deadline for REAL ID enforcement is May 7, 2025. From this date forward:
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A standard driver’s license without a star will not be accepted by the TSA at airport security.
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You’ll need to show either a REAL ID-compliant license, a passport book, or a passport card.
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Children under 18 traveling with an adult do not need their own REAL ID or passport card.
📝 How to Get a Passport Card
You can apply for a passport card through the U.S. Department of State, either:
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Online (for eligible renewals)
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By mail (using Form DS-82 if you already have a passport)
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In person (using Form DS-11 for first-time applicants)
📦 Required Documents:
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Proof of U.S. citizenship (e.g., birth certificate)
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A government-issued photo ID
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A passport photo
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Applicable fees (usually $30 for the card, or $65 if applying for both book and card)
💡 Pro Tip: Carry Both!
If you're a frequent traveler or concerned about losing one form of ID, carrying both a REAL ID and a passport card can give you added flexibility. Think of it as a backup plan for peace of mind, especially at the airport.
🔒 Security Considerations
Both the REAL ID and the passport card are highly secure and include features to prevent fraud and identity theft. However, the passport card has the added bonus of being issued directly by the federal government, making it more universally accepted across federal systems.
📢 Final Takeaway
So, to answer the big question:
Can I use a passport card instead of a REAL ID?
Absolutely. As long as you’re flying domestically or entering a federal building, the passport card is a valid, federally accepted form of ID that meets all the same criteria as a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license.
That means no more rushing to the DMV or worrying about the star on your license—as long as you have your passport card handy.
🔍 FAQs
❓Is a passport card valid for TSA checkpoints?
Yes. TSA accepts passport cards for domestic flights in the U.S.
❓Can I use a passport card instead of a driver’s license?
For identification purposes, yes. But you can’t drive with just a passport card. You still need a valid driver’s license to operate a vehicle.
❓Is it better to get a REAL ID or a passport card?
It depends on your needs. If you drive and don’t travel internationally, a REAL ID may be enough. If you travel frequently to Canada, Mexico, or the Caribbean—or want a federal ID without visiting the DMV—a passport card is a smart choice.
📌 Conclusion
Whether you're prepping for summer travel or staying ahead of the 2025 REAL ID deadline, knowing your options is key. The passport card is a legitimate, convenient, and federally approved alternative to a REAL ID—and for many, it may even be the better choice.
So before the May 2025 cutoff sneaks up on you, consider getting your passport card today. Safe travels!
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