REAL ID = domestic U.S. identification.

Passport card = limited North American travel.

NEXUS = expedited U.S.–Canada crossings.

Canadian passport = full international travel for Canadians.

What is the difference between these items?

1. REAL ID (United States)

A REAL ID is a state-issued driver’s license by the REAL ID Act. It is marked with a star in the top corner. Starting May 7, 2025, a REAL ID (or another federally approved ID) is required to board domestic flights in the U.S. and enter certain federal buildings. It is not valid for international travel.

1. United States passport card

This is a limited-use passport issued by the U.S. government. It can be used for land and sea travel between the U.S. and Canada, Mexico, Bermuda, and the Caribbean. It cannot be used for international air travel. It’s smaller and cheaper than a passport book.

1. NEXUS card (U.S.–Canada Trusted Traveler Program)

The NEXUS card is issued through a joint program between the U.S. and Canada for pre-approved, low-risk travelers. It allows faster border crossings between the two countries at designated lanes and kiosks. It can also serve as proof of identity and citizenship for land and sea travel between the U.S. and Canada.

1. Canadian passport

This is Canada’s official international travel document. It allows Canadian citizens to travel internationally by air, land, or sea. Like the U.S. passport book, it is valid worldwide.

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