You may be asking: how much does a new passport cost?
In this article, we’ll break down all the current fees for U.S. passports, explain the different types, and guide you through the application process, so you’ll be ready for your next adventure without any surprises!
Overview of U.S. Passport Fees
Getting a new U.S. passport might seem a bit complicated with all the fees, but let’s break it down simply!
- Passport Books vs. Passport Cards: A passport book costs $130. It’s great for all international travel, like flying to another country. If you just need to travel by land or sea to places like Canada and Mexico, a passport card is cheaper at $30.
- Application and Execution Fees: When applying, there’s an execution fee of $35, bringing the total to $165 for a passport book if it’s your first time.
- Expedited Service: In a hurry? You can pay an extra $60 for faster service.
- Payment Methods: You can use credit cards, like American Express, at many passport acceptance facilities, including post offices.
Here’s a quick table for better understanding:
| Service | Cost |
|---|---|
| Passport Book | $130 |
| Passport Card | $30 |
| Execution Fee | $35 |
| Total (Book + Execution) | $165 |
| Expedited Service | $60 |
Don’t forget to have your passport photos, birth certificate, or other citizenship documents ready when you apply! If you’re renewing, costs might be different for adult passport renewals. For urgent travel, visit a passport agency or acceptance facility in person to get it sorted quickly!
Types of Passports
When thinking about getting a U.S. passport, you have two main choices: passport books and passport cards. Both have their own uses and prices, so let’s learn more about each one!
Passport Books
A passport book is the most common type of passport. It’s like a magic ticket for international travel! With it, you can fly, drive, or take a boat to countries around the world. The cost for a passport book is $130. If it’s your first passport, an extra $35 execution fee is charged, bringing your total to $165. Remember, this fee helps cover the process of applying at a passport acceptance facility, like post offices.
If you plan to travel soon, you can opt for expedited service for an extra $60, which speeds up the process. Don’t forget to bring along your passport photos, birth certificate, or other citizenship documents when applying.
Passport Cards
A passport card is a cheaper option at $30, but it’s a little different because it’s only good for travel by land or sea. So, if you’re planning a road trip to Canada or a cruise to Mexico, a passport card might be perfect for you. It’s small and fits in your wallet like a credit card!
Remember, it’s not valid for international air travel, so think about how you plan to travel before deciding. You will also need to pay the $35 execution fee if it’s your first application, making the total $65.
Here’s a quick comparison:
| Passport Type | Suitable For | Cost | Total with Execution Fee |
|---|---|---|---|
| Passport Book | All Travel Types | $130 | $165 |
| Passport Card | Land/Sea (e.g., Mexico, Canada) | $30 | $65 |
Always check your travel plans to make sure you pick the right passport for your adventures!
General Application Fees
Getting a new passport? Here’s what it costs!
Passport Fees
- Passport Book:
- Adults (16 and older): $130
- Minors (under 16): $100
- Passport Card:
- Adults: $30
- Minors: $15
- Application Fees:
- This is the main cost for processing your passport.
Additional Costs
- Execution Fee (also known as Acceptance Fee): $35. This fee is for the acceptance facility like most post offices where you submit your passport application in person.
Expedited Services
If you’re in a hurry, you can get expedited services:
- Expedited Fee: Additional $60 to speed up the process.
- USPS Priority Mail Delivery: Add $19.53 for faster shipping.
Payment Options
You can pay fees using credit cards like American Express and others accepted at passport agencies.
Things You’ll Need
- Passport Photos: Recent photos that meet U.S. Department of State standards.
- Citizenship Documents: Like birth certificates for first-time passports.
- Previous Passport: If you’re renewing.
In short, check all your fees and documents to make your international travel smooth!
Renewal Costs
Getting a new passport might seem tricky, but don’t worry; it’s like shopping for your international travel ID!
Here’s what you need to know about passport renewal costs:
Adult Passport Renewal Costs:
- Passport Book: $130
- Passport Card (only for land and sea travel to Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Bermuda): $30
- Optional Expedited Service: Add $60 if you’re in a hurry and need it faster.
If you’re renewing by mail (useful for current passports that aren’t too old), you might save a trip. Just be sure you meet all the requirements!
Additional Costs:
- Passport Photos: Usually costs between $10-$15 at places like post offices or pharmacies.
- Mailing: Using USPS Priority Mail for secure delivery could add a bit more cost.
Make sure your previous passport, photos, and any necessary citizenship documents like birth certificates are in order. Also, remember there’s no execution fee for renewals by mail!
If you have Urgent Travel needs, you can book a passport appointment at a passport agency or acceptance facility. They might have different fees, especially for fast processing!
And guess what? You can pay with a credit card like American Express at most locations. Easy peasy!
Expedited Processing Fees
Getting a new passport quickly can cost extra. This is called expedited processing, and it’s like a fast pass for your passport! If you want your passport sooner, you’ll need to pay an additional $60.
Here’s a simple breakdown of costs:
- Expedited Processing Fee: $60
- Application Fee: Varies by age and type (Passport book/card)
- Execution Fee: $35 (only for first-timers or if applying in person)
- Passport Photos: Cost varies wherever you get them
Using this service, your passport arrives in 7 to 9 weeks instead of the regular 10 to 13 weeks. If you need it even faster, there’s an option called “Urgent Travel,” but you’ll need a passport appointment at a passport agency or center.
Remember, you also need to send your application via USPS Priority Mail or equivalent for faster delivery. And don’t forget to bring your citizenship documents like your birth certificate, especially if it’s your first-time passport application!
So, grab your required documents, visit a passport acceptance facility like certain post offices, and avoid waiting weeks longer to be ready for your international travel adventure!
Fees for Minors
Getting a passport for a minor (anyone under 16 years old) costs a bit, but it’s important for international travel. Here’s a simple breakdown:
Passport Fees for Minors:
- Passport Book:
- Application Fee: $100
- Execution Fee: $35
- Passport Card (good for land and sea travel to Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Bermuda):
- Application Fee: $15
- Execution Fee: $35
- Total Costs:Passport TypeTotal CostPassport Book$135Passport Card$50
Additional Tips:
- Photo Costs: You’ll need a passport photo which can be taken at many passport acceptance facilities like post offices, or you can use services like American Express to get it done.
- Payment Methods: You can pay with options like credit cards at some places.
- Expedited Services: If you need the passport fast (expedited passport), expect additional fees.
Payments are made to the U.S. Department of State. Remember, you must apply for a minor’s passport in person at an acceptance facility with proper documents like birth certificates and citizenship documents.
Optional Services and Associated Costs
When getting a passport, there are some extras you might need or want that come with additional costs. Here’s a quick guide:
- Expedited Service:
- If you need your passport faster than the normal processing time, you can pay an extra $60 to speed things up. This is great for urgent travel plans.
- 1-2 Day Delivery:
- For $19.53 extra, you can get your passport delivered quicker once it’s ready. This fee is for fast shipping rather than waiting for regular mail.
- Passport Card:
- This isn’t just for minors; adults can also get a passport card for $65 total. It’s useful for traveling to nearby places like Canada and Mexico by land or sea.
Keep in mind payments go to the U.S. Department of State. It’s wise to check specific acceptance facilities because some may accept payments like credit cards, while others may not.
Passport Photos
For your passport application, you’ll need a passport photo. Here’s how to handle it:
- You can get your photo taken at various places, such as post offices or other passport acceptance facilities. They often have services to take passport photos that fit the right size and requirements.
- Some companies like American Express also offer photo services, so you have a few options.
- Getting a professional photo usually costs around $10 to $15, but prices can vary depending on where you go.
Always make sure the photo meets the U.S. Department of State guidelines to avoid any application hiccups!
International Delivery Fees
Sometimes, you may need your passport shipped internationally. Here’s what you should know:
- International Delivery: This is not common, and costs can vary. Typically, international shipping fees would be higher compared to the regular mail service within the U.S. If you need this, check directly with USPS or another postal service for specific fee details.
- It’s good to note that getting your passport delivered internationally usually involves contacting a passport agency or acceptance facility to understand how these services work.
When purchasing optional services, be sure to check out the specific requirements and costs offered by your nearest passport acceptance facility or agency.
Payment Methods for Passport Fees
When you’re ready to get or renew your passport, knowing the payment options for the passport fees is super helpful. Here’s a quick guide on how you can pay:
Payment Methods:
- Check or Money Order: Make it payable to the “U.S. Department of State”. This is the most common method used at passport acceptance facilities.
- Credit Card: Accepted at some places, but typically when you apply in person at a passport agency. They take cards like Visa, MasterCard, and American Express.
- Cash: Usually accepted for the execution fee at places like post offices and passport acceptance facilities, but not for the application fee.
- Debit Card: Along with credit cards, debit cards are accepted when paying in person at some passport agencies.
Remember:
- You cannot pay by telephone or via online payment for your passport.
- Make sure to check with the facility about accepted payment methods before you visit.
Choosing the right payment method helps speed up the process, whether you’re applying for a first-time passport or adult passport renewals, ensuring you’re ready for international travel.
Distinctions Between Application and Execution Fees
When you’re getting a new passport, it’s a bit like getting a ticket for an adventure. But just like a ticket, it comes with a price. The cost is split into two main parts: application fees and execution fees. Knowing the difference between these two helps in understanding your total passport cost.
Application Fees
Application fees are like the main cost of your passport. This fee is used by the U.S. Department of State to process your passport application. It’s different depending on whether you’re getting a passport book, which you need for flying to other countries, or a passport card, which is handy for traveling to places like Canada or Mexico by land or sea.
Here’s a look at the application fees:
| Type | Application Fee |
|---|---|
| Passport Book | $130 |
| Passport Card | $30 |
| Both Book and Card | $160 |
Remember, if you’re renewing an adult passport by mail (because you already have one), you only need to pay this application fee.
Execution Fees
Execution fees are like a service charge. This fee is collected by the place that accepts your passport application, like a post office or passport acceptance facility. They help with the passport process by checking your documents, like your birth certificate or citizenship documents, and sending everything to the passport agency.
This fee is currently $35, no matter if you’re getting a passport book, a card, or both.
Whether you’re a first-time passport applicant or someone with a previous passport, understanding these fees helps you plan for your travel expenses. Always check with the place where you’re applying for any additional costs, like USPS Priority Mail for faster delivery or expedited service if you’re in a hurry for urgent travel.
Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for a Passport
Getting a passport is your ticket to international travel! Whether it’s your first time or you’re renewing an expired one, here’s how to do it. Follow these steps, and you’ll be ready for your next adventure!
First-Time Passport Application
- Gather Your Documents: You’ll need citizenship documents like a birth certificate. Don’t forget a valid ID!
- Take a Passport Photo: Head to places like post offices or pharmacies where they offer passport photos. Make sure you’re not wearing a hat or sunglasses.
- Fill Out the Application: Use the passport application form, available online or at any passport acceptance facility, like a passport agency or certain post offices.
- Calculate the Passport Fees:
- Passport Book: $130 for adults (ages 16 and older).
- Passport Card: $30 for adults.
- Additional acceptance fee: $35.
- Extra for expedited passport services if you’re in a rush.
- Submit Your Application: Go in person to a passport acceptance facility. Remember to bring your completed application, documents, passport photo, and payment method (like credit card or check).
- USPS Priority Mail for Delivery: After submitting, you can choose return service like USPS Priority Mail to receive your passport faster.
Renewing an Existing Passport
- Check Eligibility: You can renew by mail if your current passport is undamaged and issued when you were age 16 or older. It should have been issued in the last 15 years and must have your current name or legal name change documents.
- Complete the Renewal Form DS-82: Available on the U.S. Department of State website.
- Prepare Your Photo: A new passport photo is still required even for renewals.
- Calculate the Fees:
- Renewal Fee: $130 for a passport book.
- Use a personal check or money order for mail applications.
- Mail Your Application: Send your form, photo, fees, and possibly your previous passport using USPS Priority Mail for faster processing.
- Expedited Service Available: For an extra $60, you can ask for expedited service if you have urgent travel needs.
Now you know how to apply for your U.S. passport! Just follow these steps, and soon, you’ll have your passport ready, allowing you to explore the world beyond. Safe travels!
Tracking Application Status
When you apply for a new passport, it’s super important to keep track of your application status. Luckily, it’s pretty easy! Here’s how you can do it:
- Online Tracking: You can check your passport application status online. Just visit the U.S. Department of State’s website and enter your information like last name, birth date, and the last four digits of your social security number.
- By Phone: Prefer speaking to someone? You can also call the National Passport Information Center at 1-877-487-2778.
- Email Updates: For those who like getting updates via email, there’s an option to sign up for email notifications when your passport status changes.
Keep in mind that it usually takes about 7-10 days from the time you apply for your status to be trackable online. If you used expedited service and need to travel urgently, keep this time in mind. Always have your application information handy when checking your status, especially if you did it at a post office or acceptance facility.
Stay patient, and good luck with your international travel plans!
What to Do If Your Passport Is Lost or Stolen
Losing your passport can be scary, but don’t worry! Here’s what to do to fix it quickly:
- Stay Calm and Report: The first step is to report your lost or stolen passport. If you’re in the U.S., call the U.S. Department of State at 1-877-487-2778. If you’re traveling abroad, contact the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.
- Fill Out a Form: You’ll need to fill out a form called DS-64 to officially report your passport lost or stolen. You can find this form online or at passport acceptance facilities like post offices.
- Apply for a New Passport: You have to apply for a new one. Use form DS-11, the same form used for a first-time passport. You will need to provide your birth certificates and other citizenship documents.
- Photos and Fees: Get new passport photos and be ready to pay passport fees. This includes acceptance and execution fees, too.
- Expedited Service: If you’re in a rush for international travel, you can request expedited passport services, possibly through a passport agency or an expedited passport in-person appointment.
Here’s a simple checklist to keep handy:
- Report the loss
- Fill out forms DS-64 and DS-11
- Get new photos
- Pay necessary fees
- Consider expedited service if urgent
Stay organized, and you’ll be set for your next adventure!
Conclusion: Understanding U.S. Passport Fees
Getting a U.S. passport can be important for traveling outside the country. Here’s a quick guide to understanding the costs involved, which are set by the U.S. Department of State.
Passport Costs:
- First-time Adult Passport Book: $130 application fee + $35 execution fee.
- Adult Passport Renewal: $130, no execution fee.
- Minor Passport Book: $100 application fee + $35 execution fee.
- Passport Card: $30 application fee for adults, $15 for minors, plus $35 execution fee if applying in person.
Additional Costs:
- Expedited Service: Extra $60 if you need your passport faster.
- Photos: Passport photos cost around $15 at post offices or stores.
Payment Methods:
- You can pay with a credit card like American Express when applying in person.
Ways to Apply:
- Apply in person at passport acceptance facilities like post offices.
- Renew by mail if you have a current passport that’s eligible.
Understanding these fees helps you budget for your new passport so you’re ready for international travel. Make sure to check if you need any other citizenship or birth certificates when applying!
