In general, a U.S. passport is a document issued by the federal government, which certifies, for the purpose of international travel, the identity of the U.S. citizen. A U.S. passport, in and of itself, does not entitle the holder entry into another country. However, nearly every foreign country requires a passport of some kind for travel into its borders.

The passport required for most international travel is the U.S. Passport Book, which allows travelers the right to leave and return to the United States. In particular, if you plan on traveling to any countries other than Canada, Mexico, Bermuda, or the Caribbean nations you’ll need to get the U.S. Passport Book. Also, if you travel by air to any country (including Canada, Mexico, Bermuda, or the Caribbean nations), you’ll need the U.S. Passport Book. If you have ever seen a U.S. passport, you’ve probably seen the U.S. Passport Book.

So, chances are that you’ll need the U.S. Passport Book. However, if you only plan to travel by land or sea to Canada, Mexico, Bermuda, or the Caribbean nations you can purchase the U.S. Passport Card for your travels.

Next, we’ll go over the specifics of the U.S. Passport Card.