Do we *really* need passports?

[Tara619]

Thanks for the replies. My husband has a passport already. DS and I do not. For such a short cruise, I think we'll take our chances and use birth certificates.

 

[tvguy]

Yes, just last week and I did not need a passport.....a SSN card and DL worked just as well

Hmm, that combination isn't a legal option that I see.
http://www.uscis.gov/files/form/i-9.pdf

 

[kcashner]

Btw, passport cards only is a good alternative for kids--way cheaper!

No, a passport card is essentially worthless on a cruise. Yes, it will get you on and off the ship, but so will a certified birth certificate. It won't allow you to travel by air in an emergency.

My suggestion--either go "all the way" spending the bigger bucks and get the passport OR spend nothing and use the certified birth certificates. Spending "less" on something that will do no good in an emergency makes no sense to me.

The only thing having a passport card will do is make it a little easier to get the emergency passport because the State Department has already verified your info to get the card.

 

[hrhdhd]

Hmm, that combination isn't a legal option that I see.
http://www.uscis.gov/files/form/i-9.pdf

I agree with you in principle, but a DL is on list B and a SS card is on list C. One of each, and you're good to go.

 

[PrincessShmoo]

I agree with you in principle, but a DL is on list B and a SS card is on list C. One of each, and you're good to go.

That information has to do with establishing identity for employment.

From the WHTI website
http://www.getyouhome.gov/html/lang_eng/eng_sa.html:

"Closed Loop" Cruises: U.S. citizens who board a cruise ship at a port within the United States, travel only within the Western Hemisphere, and return to the same U.S. port on the same ship may present a government issued photo identification, along with proof of citizenship (an original or copy of his or her birth certificate, a Consular report of Birth Abroad, or a Certificate of Naturalization). Please be aware that you may still be required to present a passport to enter the foreign countries your cruise ship is visiting. Check with your cruise line to ensure you have the appropriate documents.

 

[hrhdhd]

That information has to do with establishing identity for employment.

I know. That's the discussion I was replying to.

 

[PrincessShmoo]

I know. That's the discussion I was replying to.

Whoops! Sorry. My mind was still in the "do I need passports for the cruise?" world.

 

[jilljill]

Whoops! Sorry. My mind was still in the "do I need passports for the cruise?" world.

Hence the need for threads to stay on topic and not get derailed for another or similiar topic. So I could see why you posted as such.