How Much Does a US Passport Cost?
Overview of US Passport Costs
When applying for a US passport, it’s important to understand the associated costs. As of 2021, the application fee for a new adult passport book is $145. For minors under the age of 16, the fee is $115. Renewal fees for adult passports are slightly lower at $110.
In addition to the application fee, there may be additional fees for certain services such as expedited processing or overnight delivery. These fees can range from $15 to $60 depending on the service requested.
It’s important to note that passport fees are subject to change, so it’s always a good idea to check the current fees on the US Department of State website before submitting an application. Overall, obtaining a US passport can be a significant expense, but it’s a necessary investment for those planning to travel internationally.
How to Determine Your Passport Fees
The fees for a US passport can vary depending on a few different factors, including the type of passport you’re applying for and the services you require. To determine your passport fees, you’ll need to consider the following:
Type of passport: The cost of a US passport can vary depending on whether you’re applying for a new adult passport book, a minor passport, a passport card, or a renewal.
Application method: If you’re applying for a passport in person, by mail, or through an authorized passport agency, the fees may differ.
Additional services: If you require expedited processing or overnight delivery, you’ll need to pay an additional fee. Other services, such as adding extra visa pages, may also come with a fee.
To determine the exact cost of your US passport, you can use the State Department’s Passport Fee Calculator, which will take into account all the necessary factors based on your specific situation.
Additional Fees for Passport Services
In addition to the standard application fee for a US passport, there may be additional fees for certain services. Here are some of the most common additional fees:
Expedited processing: If you need your passport quickly, you can request expedited processing for an additional fee of $60. This will reduce the processing time from 4-6 weeks to 2-3 weeks.
Overnight delivery: If you need your passport delivered overnight, you can pay an additional fee of $17.56 per application. This fee covers the cost of overnight shipping to and from the passport agency.
Execution fee: If you’re applying for a new passport in person, you’ll need to pay an execution fee of $35 to the authorized passport acceptance facility. This fee covers the cost of verifying your identity and accepting your application.
Additional visa pages: If you run out of visa pages in your passport, you can request additional pages for a fee of $26.
It’s important to note that these fees are subject to change, so be sure to check the current fees on the State Department’s website before submitting your application.
Expedited Passport Processing Fees
If you need your US passport quickly, you can request expedited processing for an additional fee of $60. This service is available for both new passport applications and passport renewals.
With expedited processing, your passport application will be processed in 2-3 weeks instead of the standard processing time of 4-6 weeks. However, it’s important to note that the processing time does not include the time it takes to deliver your passport to you.
If you require your passport even sooner, you can make an appointment at a Regional Passport Agency. These agencies can process passports in as little as 24 hours, but you’ll need to provide proof of travel plans and pay an additional fee of $60 on top of the expedited processing fee.
It’s important to note that while expedited processing can help you get your passport faster, it’s not a guarantee. Delays can still occur, so it’s always a good idea to apply for your passport well in advance of your travel dates.
Tips for Saving Money on Your US Passport
Obtaining a US passport can be an expensive process, but there are ways to save money. Here are some tips to help you reduce the cost of getting your passport:
Apply early: If you know you’ll need a passport in the near future, apply early to avoid expedited processing fees.
Skip the extras: While expedited processing and overnight delivery can be convenient, they come with additional fees. If you don’t need these services, skip them to save money.
Opt for a passport card: If you only plan to travel to Canada, Mexico, or the Caribbean, a passport card may be a more affordable option than a full passport book.
Renew by mail: If you’re renewing an adult passport, you can do so by mail for a lower fee than in-person renewal.
Be mindful of expiration dates: If you let your passport expire, you’ll need to apply for a new one and pay the full application fee. Be sure to keep track of expiration dates and renew your passport in a timely manner.
By following these tips, you can save money on your US passport and still have the necessary documentation to travel internationally.
