In this guide, we describe each of these travel docs, what they are used for, and how to get them. Links are provided for more detailed information about each document.
The wallet-size passport card is an alternative to a full-sized passport book. The card can be used for travel between the United States and Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, or Bermuda.
Note: You can only use a passport card at land border crossings or sea ports-of-entry. The passport card cannot be used for international air travel.
Getting a new passport can take the longest of all the documents listed here. Depending on the circumstances, waiting for a new passport to arrive can take months. The same is true for passport renewals and getting a passport card.
If you need to travel abroad soon, there are ways to get a passport fast:
These passport experts will visit Regional Agency on your behalf, saving you time and money. They can usually get a passport faster than you can on your own.
When you arrive, an agent will either grant or deny entry depending on your reasons for travel. There are several types of visas:
All visas are issued for a set amount of time. When the visa expires, you must either leave the country or apply to renew your visa.
There are some countries where no visa is required in order to visit.
An IDP does not replace a valid government-issued license. It is only valid when used with your regular license.
This means that if a law enforcement official in another country stops you, you must produce both your IDP and your official driver's license.
IDPs are honored in more than 150 countries outside the United States. Only the the American Automobile Association (AAA) and the American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA), are permitted to sell IDPs.
You must be at least 18 years old and have a valid driver's license issued by a U.S. state or territory.
This authentication service is available to U.S. citizens and foreign nationals on documents that will be used overseas.
You must request authentication services by mail. The State Department processes your request in 8 weeks from the date the paperwork is received.
Travel deals, destinations, gifts and gadgets for all ages.
International travel resources to better plan trips abroad.
How to get a passport by standard or expedited processing service.
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