What Is a Passport Book Number & Where Is It Located?

The US government issues two documents for traveling purposes; a passport card and a passbook. While they seem alike, they are two different travel documents used to identify citizens intending to travel. If you look closely at a passbook, you will notice a set of numbers displayed above known as the ‘passbook number. So, what is a passbook number?

A passport book number is a set of numbers comprising letters and numerals, which makes one passport book distinct from another. It has between eight and nine digits and identifies the holder as the legal user of the passport. Every US passport book has a unique number that differs from other passport books.

A passport book often combines letters with Roman numerals to make up the eight or nine-letter word. Other times, it could just contain Roman numerals. It is one of the security measures set up to ensure only legal and qualified citizens can travel.

In particular, the passport book number’s digits have significant meaning as it details yourself and what the passport book is for. For example, the first two numbers on the passport book number provide details on the issuing passport office.

Where Do I Find My Passport Book Number?

The passport book number is at the top right side of the second page of your passport book. Flip past the first page, and open to the second page to find your passport book number. Look beneath the ‘United States of America’ to see ‘Passport No./No. Du Passeport/No. De Pasaporte. This is where to find your passport book number.

The passport book number is essential in identifying and retrieving many documents. For example, your passport book number is required if you misplaced your passport and intend to get a new one.

Therefore, it is either you carefully pen it down or, better still, memorize your passport number. This way, you can quickly provide it at the slightest chance.

While getting a new passport, the former one is usually returned or deactivated before proceeding with other arrangements.

In the case of a lost passport, you can decide to request a new passport book number if you forget the previous digits. This renewal is free and does not require any cost.

Passport Book Number vs Passport Number

There are a few differences between a passport book number and a passport number, namely;

1. Travel restrictions

Passport book: A passport book does not have a travel restriction, and you can conveniently travel to any country of your choice, both locally and internationally. It gives you access to over 150 international flights.

Passport card: This is restricted to travel within the U.S. and neighboring countries like Mexico and Canada. A passport card is for use on both land and sea.

2. Size

Passport book: A passport book is more significant than a passport card and measures about 5×3.5 inches (8.89 cm). Usually, it contains 28 pages, but there is an option for a 52-page passport or even extra pages once the pages are exhausted.

Passport card: This is small and is just the size of a wallet. More so, it has one page which contains all the necessary information.

3. Cost

Passport book: It will cost an adult $130 to get a passport book, while a minor will require $105. But when renewing it, the cost will reduce to $130.

Passport Card: For an adult, $55 is needed for the first passport card application. However, it will take a minor $40 for the first time and $30 for adults to get a renewal.

While it is necessary to know the difference between a passport book number and a passport number, you won’t be allowed to travel internationally if you don’t have a physical passport. If you lost or mistakenly damaged your passport, you can get a replacement using the DS-11 Form. However, you’re required to apply in person.

Is the Passport Book Number the Same as the Passport Number?

No, the passport book number is relatively different from a passport number. While a passport book number is found in a passport and is among the requirements for international travel, you can find a passport number on a passport for local flights.

If you look closely at the second page of your passport book, you will notice the numbers written at the top right corner. It is usually a combination of different numbers, letters, and some Roman numerals in nine digits. Also, the passport book number is designed to identify the passport book itself and is more of a distinguishing sign of one passport book to another.

However, you can use a passport number to identify the holder as the legal owner of the passport. It is also known as a ‘passport card.’ Although this difference may be subtle, it is worthy of note and can prevent you from making mistakes when traveling in the future.

Related Read: Do You Need a Passport To Go To Jamaica?

Do I Need Both the Passport Book and the Card?

Yes, the passport book and the passport card are both a means of identification as a US citizen and are designed for local and international travel. However, their uses vary and thus may determine your preference.

As a citizen, you are free to acquire the passport book and the card, but you must note the differences. The U.S. government designed the passport card for the southern and Northern border states.

If you live in these communities, you will likely travel more frequently to the neighboring countries on land. However, traveling to any nearby community by sea or land is more accessible with the card.

Also, the passport card is intended for travel to 20 countries. It is usually budget-friendly, and you may not bother with a passport if you have no intentions of traveling by airplane or outside those countries for ten years.

The passport book is for international travel and allows you to travel by air, sea, or land to any country in the world.

Why Would You Need Both a Passport Book and a Passport?

It is needed as proof of your identity and U.S. citizenship. Every U.S. citizen is expected to have both a passport book and a passport card, as it is used alternatively for an ID. If you are a frequent traveler, the passport book and card will come in handy.

For example, a passport card is the most suitable option for flights to neighboring communities like Mexico and Canada. In contrast, a passport card is usually used for travel on sea or land. More so, a passport card is less bulky and more convenient than a passport book.

However, flights to international countries require you to provide your passport book. Unlike the passport card that limits you to just 20 neighboring countries, the passport book gives you access to over ten countries worldwide.

So, acquiring both documents makes your traveling process more convenient as you can utilize any of them.

Related Read: Do You Need a Passport To Go To St. Lucia?

Do Passport Books and Card Come Separately?

Yes, the passport book and card are shipped by the state department to the rightful owners separately, and they don’t arrive simultaneously. A passport book is the first document packaged in a priority mail envelope. Once you have registered for these documents at the state government, it will take three weeks before the processes are concluded.

Note that you can send your application for both the passport book and passport card simultaneously if you wish. However, you have to send your application separately.

Does the U.S Passport Book Number Appear on the Passport Card?

No, the passport book and card have different numbers written on them. A passport card number starts with C, and the rest are eight numbers in total. However, a passport book contains nine numbers which are usually a combination of letters and numerals.

Each of the numbers on the passport book represents unique details such as; the photo, name, and country name, while the passport card has a picture and a radio frequency identification attachment.

Do I Need a Passport Book to Fly to Mexico?

Yes, you will need a passport book if you intend to fly to Mexico. However, a passport card is also accepted in most situations. Therefore, there are two options for anyone traveling to Mexico; either you provide a valid passport book or card.

Also, minors must present a passport book when Travelling to Mexico by air. Once you reach the Mexican border, you will have to present these documents; a US passport, a SENTRI card, or a passport card. However, the officials will likely deny you a flight ticket if you fail to present any of these documents.

On the other hand, if you travel to Mexico by land, you will need a passport, but a minor does not need one.

Do You Need a Passport Book to Fly to Canada?

Yes, you will need a passport book if you intend to fly to Canada. However, a passport book is required primarily for international travel. Before now, a US citizen could travel to Canada with just a driver's license. This is due to the long relationship between the two countries. However, on June 1, 2019, the US government enacted a law requiring US citizens to present their passports before traveling to Canada.