Can I find out my passport information before I actually receive it?

by Matt
(Portland, OR)

Question: I am leaving for Japan on Feb. 10. I sent off my passport paperwork on Jan. 6 and paid for the 1-2 week expedited service. The tour manager told me that he needs my passport information on Jan. 18 so he can purchase my plane ticket.

My question is if I don't receive my actual passport in the mail by that day is there a way to find out my information such as my passport card number or any other information that I need in order for the manager to purchase my ticket?

Answer: You cannot get the number before the passport is issued. Passports (generally speaking) are returned the day they are issued.

Also, while a passport card functions just like a regular passport book, it cannot be used for air travel. You can only re-enter the US by air using a passport book.