How Long Does It Take to Get a Passport Card?

Quick Answer

As of 2026, a U.S. passport card takes roughly 4 to 6 weeks to process with routine service and 2 to 3 weeks with expedited service. These estimates start once the State Department receives your application, not the day you mail it, so include additional mailing time on both ends. Processing times fluctuate, so always check travel.state.gov for current estimates before you apply.

Processing Time by Service Level

Service Level	Processing Time	Extra Fee
Routine	4–6 weeks	None
Expedited (by mail)	2–3 weeks	$60
Mailing time	Up to 2 weeks each way	Varies

Note: The in-person urgent appointment service at a passport agency is generally reserved for passport books tied to imminent international travel, not standalone passport cards.

What Is a Passport Card?

A passport card is a wallet-sized, government-issued ID valid for land and sea travel between the U.S. and Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Bermuda. It is not valid for international air travel — you need a passport book for that. Many people get the card as a low-cost, convenient ID or for frequent border crossings by car.

Application Steps and Timeline

1. Gather documents — proof of citizenship (birth certificate or prior passport), a photo ID, and a passport photo.
2. Complete Form DS-11 (first-time) or DS-82 (eligible renewal by mail).
3. Submit your application — first-timers apply in person at an acceptance facility; eligible renewals can mail it.
4. Pay the fees.
5. Wait for processing and mailing.

Factors That Affect the Timeline

Time of Year

Spring and early summer are peak season, when processing times can stretch longer. Applying in fall or winter often means faster turnaround.

First-Time vs. Renewal

First-time applicants must apply in person, which requires scheduling an appointment at an acceptance facility and can add time up front.

Application Errors

Missing signatures, incorrect fees, or an unacceptable photo are the most common causes of delays and can add weeks.

Expedited Service

Paying the $60 expedite fee roughly halves processing time and can include faster return shipping.

Cost

• First-time adult passport card: $30 application fee + $35 acceptance fee = $65
• Adult renewal (by mail): $30
• Child card (under 16): $15 application fee + $35 acceptance fee = $50
• Expedited service: +$60

How to Get It Faster

• Pay for expedited service ($60) to cut processing to about 2–3 weeks.
• Apply during the off-season (fall/winter) to avoid peak backlogs.
• Double-check your form, photo, and fees before submitting to avoid rejection.
• Use trackable mail and pay for faster return delivery when available.
• Apply well ahead of any planned land or sea travel — at least 8 weeks for routine service.

Bottom Line

Budget about 4–6 weeks for a routine passport card or 2–3 weeks if you expedite, plus mailing time. Because processing times change with demand, confirm the current estimate on the official State Department site and apply well before you need the card.