The new passport card takes the place of the PASS card, previously known as the People-Access-Security-Service Card. The Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative, in search of more suitable forms of identification, called for a change in requirements. Applications were first offered in February, 2008.

Although the process for applications began several months earlier, the new card became available in July, 2008 to the public. The current number of issued cards isn't presently known, but as of May, 2009, in excess of 1,000,000 cards were issued.

Potential applicants to obtain the new passport card should be aware that it's not suitable for all sorts of international travel. This is because the CAO fails to recognize this card to be used for such purposes. Too, the new passport card is available to citizens and nationals only who are living in the country legally with documentation.

A unique feature of the renewed card is the vicinity-read frequency identification chip. Each chip is given a special identification number and is inputted in governmental databases. The chip allows for reading at a distance.

This card has a protective sleeve that blocks RFID while inside. REAL ID is an Act that allows that the new passport card will also be accepted for federal purposes. This includes domestic air travel or entrance to federal buildings. TSA regulations list the card as an acceptable identity document at airport security checkpoints. This convenient, new 'passport card' is legal for entering the United States from our bordering countries: Mexico and Canada, as well as Bermuda and the Caribbean. This card 'passport' will be only legal at land, sea port or border crossings. It won't be legal for other air travel.

The new and handy 'passport' card will be legal for entering the United States from Mexico, Canada, Bermuda and the Caribbean. The card-passport will be only valid at land, seaport or border crossings. It will not be valid for other air travel. Another feature is that the passport 'card' can be used for the form required for employment eligibility (I-9). This has been authorized by the US Citizen-Immigration Services. This means the card qualifies as a List A document for new hires' employment eligibility. So now this convenient card can prove eligibility for any prospective employee seeking work in the United States.

Adults, 16 years of age and older, will initially pay a $25 processing fee and a $20 fee to purchase the card for a total of $45. Renewal fees will be $20. Adult cards will be good for ten years. The initial card will be $10 for a total of $35. Children's cards are valid for five years. First time adult applicants pay $120.00; first time minors will pay $95.00.

For adults who wish to purchase a U.S. passport card, the cost is $20 if they already have a valid passport. If you wish to hold both this card as well as the book, and you are a citizen or a national, you will be allowed to possess both. So now USA Passport identification will be easier and more convenient with a smaller, compact and handy US card passport! This was a wonderful idea that many will find easier. One less thing to worry about when traveling.