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

by Matt
(Portland, OR)

Question: I am leaving for Japan in a month. I sent off my passport paperwork a few days ago and paid for the 1-2 week expedited service. The tour manager told me that he needs my passport information in 10 days 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: It is not possible to get the passport number before the document is issued. You must wait until your new passport arrives to have that information.

Passports, generally speaking, are sent the day they are issued. It is possible that it will arrive before your tour manager needs the information.

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