The passport book number is an essential piece of passport details. It is required in many official procedures. However, some are confused about the passport book number vs passport number and have no idea how to find it. In this article, we are going to talk about their difference, where the passport book number is, and how to keep it safe.
What Is the Passport Book Number?
The passport book number, also known as the booklet number or inventory control number, is a unique identifier to distinguish different passports. Some countries might not issue the number or only issue it in some passport versions. The US passport book number is a 9-digit alphanumeric code starting with letters representing the issuing authority, followed by sequential numbers assigned to identify each booklet.
The Importance of a Passport Book Number
The passport book number, as a unique code assigned to each passport, is essential for the following reasons.
- Identity Verification
By checking the book number on the passport, the authority can validate that you are the legal owner of the passport and the document is authentic.
- International Travel
Travelers are required to enter passport details, including the booklet number, when traveling in and outside a foreign country. Moreover, the officers will check the number to verify your identity while passing the immigration checkpoints or customs checks.
- Passport Application and Renewal
By providing the booklet number, the application process will be easier and faster to renew an expired passport or replace a damaged/lost passport.
- Passport Records and Management
Through the book number on the passport, passport agencies and authorities can track passport data, traveling history, etc. If your passport is lost or stolen, you should provide the number while reporting the loss to the police.
- Security and Anti-Fraud Purposes
The passport book number is part of the anti-fraud features to prevent criminals from counterfeiting or manipulating passports.
Where to Find US Passport Book Number
It is quite straightforward to locate the booklet number if you have the document in hand. Turn to the second page of the US passport where there is personal information and photograph. A string of perforated code lies vertically on the right side of the page, which refers to the US passport book number.
What Can I Do with a Passport Book Number
As the passport book number is used to identify an individual and the booklet, it can be used for many occasions, such as:
- applying for a visa;
- filling out entry documents to enter a foreign country;
- reporting passport lost or stolen;
- booking air tickets for international flights;
- booking accommodation and checking in abroad;
- renting a car in a foreign country.
Difference Between Passport Book Number, Passport Card Number VS Passport Number
Both passport book and passport card are government-issued international travel documents. The difference between passport book numbers vs card numbers lies in their uses. The former works for traveling by air, land, or sea while the latter is only designed for land or sea travel between the United States and Canada, select Caribbean countries, Bermuda, and Mexico. They will change as you obtain a new document and they are different from the passport number in the following cases.
| Types of Documents | US Passport Book Number | US Passport Card Number | US Passport Number |
| Purpose | unique identifier for the passport itself (different numbers on different booklets) | unique identifier for the card itself (different numbers on different cards) | unique identifier for the passport holder (same number for different passport of the same person) |
| Location | vertically on the right of the passport personal information page | at the top right corner of the front side of the card (marked as “Passport Card No”) | at the top right corner of the bio-data page (marked as “Passport No”) |
| Format | 9 digits of letters and numbers | 9 digits of letters and numbers | 9 digits, one letter followed by 8 numbers |
Where to Find Passport Book Number from Other Countries
Not all countries issue this booklet number. If they do, the exact location might vary from country to country. Here are some common examples.
- Indian Passport Book Number
The passport book number for the Indian passport is not available. If you are required to provide it, please check with the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) that issues the document.
- China Passport Book Number
It is a 10-digit number located vertically on the right side of the bio-date page.
- Mexico Passport Book Number
It can only be found on the first 3 pages of the old versions of the Mexican passport. It refers to a 10-digit alphanumeric code at the bottom of the back of the photo page.
- Brazil Passport Book Number
There is no book number on Brazillian passports. Please contact the Brazilian Federal Police if you must provide the code.
Bonus Tips to Keep Your Passport Book Number Safe
Losing a passport book number might lead to counterfeit passports and identity theft. Therefore, it is necessary to keep the code safe through the tips below.
- Store it securely
It is suggested to note down the serial number in your notebook or mobile phone after receiving the passport, so you can retrieve the number any time it is requested. Alternatively, you can take a picture or make a photocopy of this page and keep it in a locked place or encrypted cloud service.
- Be cautious of sharing
The number is usually required in legal procedures. Do not provide it to unreliable individuals, organizations, or entities.
- Pay attention to online procedures
If you have to conduct the legal procedure online and enter your passport book number, make sure you are visiting a secure and authentic portal, for example, the official website of the consular office or an authorized visa agency.
- Monitor fraud
Check your financial accounts and credit reports regularly to detect misuse of your passport information or any unauthorized activities.
FAQ
Can I book an international flight without a passport number?
Yes, but please note that even if some airlines do not require a passport number while booking an international flight, you still have to provide it along with other necessary passport details before departure.
Is the passport number the same as book number?
No. They work for different purposes and have different numbers.
Can I find my passport book number without my passport?
Yes. You are supposed to retrieve it on the physical passport or contact the passport issuing authority for assistance.
Does your passport book number stay the same?
No. A new book number will be generated if you get a new passport through renewal or replacement.
Summary
Learning about where is the passport book number will help you fulfill many official procedures smoothly. The format and location of the passport book number might be different in different countries. Generally, it can be found on the information page of the passports. As a unique identifier, it is necessary to keep the code safe and not to share it with others randomly.