US Passport Card

"On Tuesday, the U.S. State Department announced the launch of a limited-time pilot program that allows citizens to apply for a passport card online. But here's the kicker: You have to already hold a passport in order to participate in the program.

Previously, flyers had to apply for a U.S. passport card through the mail by sending in a filled-out form DS-82 (if they already hold a valid passport book) or in person using form DS-11 at an acceptance facility or a passport agency (if they don't). But now, U.S. citizens ages 16 and older who hold a passport book that will not expire for at least a year are eligible to apply for the wallet-size card over the Web.....

http://www.smartertravel.com/blogs/today-in-travel/new-passport-cards-what-you-need-to-know.html?id=10707679&source=91&value=2012-03-07+00%3A00%3A00&u=DBFD7A1002&nl_cs=10667751%3A%3A7597638%3A%3A10707679%3A%3A
http://travel.state.gov/passport/ppt_card/ppt_card_5648.html

Granted this car cannot be used for air travel but for those that drive back and forth, it can be used. It appears that the fee is $30USD - to me a decent price for an officially recognized form of identification.

Is this another gimmick for the US Gov't to screw you out of another $ 30? Why would anyone want one if you already have a Passport?

John:

Just how are they screwing you when the decision to get one is totally the individual's? Prior to this announcement, we were already considering spending the $30USD to have a backup to our Passports. Heck of a bunch easier to carry the card in one's wallet than carrying around a Passport Book and live in fear of losing it.

I sorta wondered the same thing as John but I think you have a very good point about the portability and security of the card, particularly since we almost always drive in and out. Thanks for the heads up on this, Neil.

Thanks Cheena for the info...you are always a fount of knowledge and take the time to supply links....this is a nice option.