When traveling out of the U.S. and its territories, you must have a valid U.S. passport, which serves as your identification. This document is so integral to your entry and exit that you must keep it safe by storing it securely – this starts with understanding the U.S. passport size in inches. So, how big is a passport?
Passport Book Size
You can either get a passport book or a passport card. The book is best for international travel and allows you to travel by air, sea, or land. A good example would be a trip to Europe. While Schengen guidelines would likely allow you to enter without a visa, you would need a valid passport book to pass through immigration.
The passport book also serves as your identification for domestic countries or regions that accept WHTI-compliant documents, e.g., Canada. It lasts ten years for people aged 16 and above and five years for those under 16.
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So, what are the dimensions of a passport book? The book should measure 5 inches by 3.5 inches when closed. As such, the U.S. passport size is small enough to fit into your pocket, bag, or even carry by hand.
Passport Card Size
If you are traveling to WHTI-compliant regions like Mexico and Canada, you can use a passport card instead of the passport book. However, you should note that a passport card works for land and sea border crossings, but you cannot use it for international air travel.
This document is also valid for domestic travel. Like the passport book, it lasts ten years for people aged 16 and above and five years for people under 16.
But what size is a passport card? The passport measurements are wallet-size, which amounts to the size of your driver’s license or credit card. Thanks to this small U.S. passport size, you can carry the card in your pocket, hand, or any other secure place.
Regardless of passport choice, getting a passport holder is always advisable. Need a passport? Get one in days using TVP’s expedited passport services!
FAQs
What is the standard size of a U.S. passport?
U.S. passport measures 5 inches (12.7 cm) in height and 3.5 inches (8.9 cm) in width when closed.
Are all U.S. passports the same size?
Yes, both the standard and large passport books have the same physical dimensions; only the number of pages differs.
What is the size of a U.S. passport photo?
U.S. passport photo must be 2 x 2 inches (51 x 51 mm), with the head measuring between 1 and 1.4 inches.
Does the U.S. passport size change for minors?
No, the passport size for minors is the same as for adults, but minor passports are valid for only 5 years.
Is a U.S. passport larger than other countries’ passports?
No, the size is standard worldwide, but some countries may have slight variations in design and thickness.
What is the weight of a U.S. passport?
Standard U.S. passport weighs approximately 1.5 to 2 ounces (42 to 56 grams), depending on the number of pages.
Can I laminate my U.S. passport to protect it?
No, laminating a passport is not allowed as it can damage security features and make it invalid.
What is the difference between a U.S. passport card and a passport book?
Passport book is required for international air travel, while the passport card is wallet-sized and valid for land and sea travel to certain countries.
How thick is a U.S. passport?
Standard passport is about 0.15 inches thick, while a large passport is slightly thicker due to more pages.
Can I carry my U.S. passport in my pocket?
Yes, a U.S. passport is designed to be compact and portable, fitting easily in most pockets or travel wallets.
