You already have a passport book, but now you want the convenience of the passport card for land crossings or ID purposes. The good news is that you don't have to start from scratch, and you don't have to pay the full price.
As long as your current book is eligible, you can use the mail-in renewal form (DS-82) to add a card for just $30.
Step 1: Check Your Eligibility
You can use this mail-in method only if your current passport book:
- Is currently valid or expired less than 5 years ago (issued within the last 15 years).
- Was issued when you were age 16 or older.
- Is in your possession and undamaged.
- Was issued in your current name (or you have a marriage certificate/court order to prove the name change).
If you don't meet these, you must apply in person using Form DS-11.
Step 2: Fill Out Form DS-82
Download or fill out Form DS-82 online.
Crucial Step: When asked what you are applying for, check the box for "Passport Card". Do NOT check "Passport Book" unless you actually want to pay to renew it early.
Step 3: The "Do Not Cancel" Rule
⚠️ Warning
You are required to mail in your valid passport book with this application. To prevent the State Department from accidentally canceling your valid book (punching holes in the cover), you must:
- Stick a Post-it note on the cover of your book that says: "DO NOT CANCEL - ADDING CARD ONLY".
- Include a short, signed letter inside the envelope stating: "I am applying for a passport card only. Please return my valid passport book to me uncanceled."
Step 4: Fees & Mailing
The cost is significantly cheaper because you skip the execution fee.
- Passport Card Fee: $30
- Execution Fee: $0 (Because you are mailing it in).
Mail your completed DS-82, your passport photo, your check for $30, and your current passport book to the address listed on the form.
Need Your Passport Card Faster?
If you are in a rush, you have options. While the State Department always mails passport cards via First Class Mail (no overnight shipping available for the card itself), you can expedite the processing time.
For the fastest, most secure results, we recommend RushMyPassport.
As a registered courier service with the U.S. Department of State, they can:
- Review your documents to ensure no mistakes cause a suspension (a common issue that delays applications by weeks).
- Hand-carry your application to the passport agency to secure faster processing slots.
- Track your status every step of the way.
Start your expedited application
Frequently Asked Questions
Will my passport number change?
Your passport book number will stay the same (since you aren't renewing it). Your new passport card will have a completely different number. The two documents always have different numbers.
Can I expedite this process?
Yes. You can pay an additional $60 for government expedited service. However, remember that passport cards cannot be shipped via overnight delivery. They are always sent First Class Mail, which can take up to 2 weeks for delivery after printing.
Top 5 Questions About Expedited Passport Couriers
2. What exactly does a passport expediter do?
3. Are passport expediting services legitimate?
4. How can I identify a reliable passport expeditor?
5. Is expedited passport service worth it?
Get answers to these questions and more in our Ultimate U.S. Traveler's Guide to Passport Expediters.
You can also visit our library of articles about passport expediting.
