 The passport card (previously known as the People Access Security Service Card, or PASS Card) was created as a result of the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI), which imposed more stringent documentary requirements on travelers.Applications have been accepted since February 1, 2008; production of the cards began July 14, 2008.By the end of 2016, more than 12 million passport cards had been issued to U.S. citizens.