I have a passport card but need a passport book to travel to Barbados.

by Dawn
(Ashley, IN)

Question: I currently have a passport card that was issued in June 2009. I will be needing to get a passport book within the next couple of years so I can travel to Barbados.

Will I have to apply for the book as a first time applicant or can I renew by mail an send in my passport card? What are the fees if it is considered a renewal? Will I receive my passport card back along with the new book or will they keep the card?

Answer: First of all, a passport card can be used for travel by sea to Barbados. You only need a passport book if you travel by air.

Yes, you can use your passport card in order to apply for a passport book. In this case, you would apply for a passport renewal by mail.

The application to complete is form DS-82. Along with this, you need to submit your passport card, one passport photo and payment of $110 for the application fee.

Finally, your passport card will be returned to you. The two passports may arrive in different envelopes and, possibly, different days.

For more information on applying for a renewal, click the link below.

How to Get a Passport Renewal