The new U.S. passport card may be the solution for Mainers, used to driving back and forth to Canada, who feel that regular passports are too expensive. Although it can't be used for air travel, the card will cost less than U.S. passports and will provide proof of citizenship when traveling between countries on the North American continent by land or sea.

"The passport card for a first-time applicant is $45, compared to $100 for a passport," says Tracy DiGiacomo, a customer service manager for the U.S. Department of State. "If you already have a valid passport and want a passport card because you like the convenience of being able to stick it in your wallet, the cost is only $20."

The passport card looks a lot like a credit card and features many of the same properties as a paper passport, except it will be more durable.

DiGiacomo says the adult passport card will be valid for 10 years and children's passport cards, which cost $35, have a five-year validity. "That's cheaper than a driver's license."

Travelers are reminded that, beginning in June 2009, they must possess a passport or passport card when they drive between North American borders or travel by boat between them. "Right now is a great time to apply for a passport card because there is only a four-week processing time," points out DiGiacomo. "If everybody applies last minute, the processing time may increase an extra two weeks."

For more information, access <www.travel.state.gov> or call 1-877-487-2778.