With its bustling airports and a busy port, Los Angeles is a city where having a valid passport is essential for international travel. While many people are familiar with the traditional passport book fewer know the convenient and cost-effective alternative: the US passport card.
Whether you're a frequent traveler or planning a trip abroad a US passport card can be a valuable addition to your travel documents. In this guide, we'll explore everything you need to know about applying for and using a US passport card in Los Angeles from where to apply to how long it takes to receive your card. So, let's get started!
Where to apply for a US passport card in Los Angeles
If you're a resident of Los Angeles and need to apply for a US passport card several options are available. Whether you're looking for a convenient passport acceptance facility or need expedited services you can find what you need in the City of Angels. Here are some possible locations to consider:
Local post offices: Many post offices in Los Angeles serve as passport acceptance facilities making them a convenient choice for many residents. You can use the USPS website to find a post office near you that offers passport services.
Los Angeles Passport Agency: This regional passport agency offers expedited services for those who need a passport quickly or have an emergency. Appointments are required and must be scheduled in advance.
Department of State-authorized expediting services: If you need to expedite your passport application but don't want to go through a government agency you can use an authorized expediting service. Just be sure to choose a reputable provider to ensure a smooth application process.
No matter which option you choose be sure to bring all required documentation, fees and a recent passport photo with you when you apply.
Los Angeles passport card processing times: how long does it take to get a US passport card?
The processing time for a US passport card in Los Angeles can vary depending on a few factors such as whether you choose expedited services and the current volume of applications. However, in general, here are some estimates for how long it takes to get a US passport card in Los Angeles:
Routine processing: This can take anywhere from 4 to 8 weeks from the time you submit your application.
Expedited processing: If you need your passport card more quickly you can pay an additional fee for expedited processing which can take anywhere from 2 to 3 weeks.
Los Angeles Passport Agency: If you have an emergency or need your passport card even more quickly than expedited processing can provide you may be able to schedule an appointment at the Los Angeles Passport Agency. However, appointments are typically only available for urgent situations and you must provide proof of travel.
It's important to remember that these processing times are estimates and can be subject to change. It's always a good idea to apply for your passport card as early as possible to ensure that you receive it in time for your travel plans.
US passport card vs. passport book: which is right for you when traveling from Los Angeles?
Whether to choose a US passport card or a passport book when traveling from Los Angeles depends on your specific travel needs. Here are some things to consider when deciding which type of passport to get:
Travel destination: If you're traveling to Canada, Bermuda, Mexico or the Caribbean by land or sea a US passport card may be sufficient. However, if you're traveling by air or to any other international destination you will need a passport book.
Validity: US passport books are valid for 10 years while passport cards are only valid for 10 years for adults and 5 years for children under 16. If you plan to travel internationally frequently over the next 10 years a passport book may be a better choice.
Cost: US passport cards are generally less expensive than passport books but if you plan to travel internationally by air or to destinations that require a passport book you'll need to pay for both a passport card and a passport book.
Additional features: Passport books have more pages for visas and stamps while passport cards do not. Additionally, passport books can be used for international air travel while passport cards cannot.
Ultimately, the decision on whether to get a US passport card or passport book when traveling from Los Angeles will depend on your specific travel needs. Consider where you'll be traveling how often you plan to travel internationally and your budget when making your decision.
US passport card fees in Los Angeles: what to expect when applying for a passport card
When applying for a US passport card in Los Angeles you can expect to pay the following fees:
Passport card application fee: $30 for adults (16 years and older) and $15 for children (under 16 years old).
Execution fee: $35 for all applicants including children.
Expedited service fee (optional): $60 per application and the above fees.
If you need to expedite your passport card application you may also need to pay for overnight delivery or other additional fees.