Expedited Passport Costs: What You Need To Know

Getting a passport quickly when you have urgent travel plans can be a lifesaver, but it comes with a higher price tag. The cost of an expedited passport includes standard passport fees plus an additional expedited service fee. This guide will break down exactly what you can expect to pay and how to ensure you get your passport in hand with enough time before your trip.

Understanding the Standard Passport Fees

Before we dive into expedited costs, it's crucial to understand the base fees for a U.S. passport. These fees are set by the Department of State and are subject to change. They cover the processing and issuance of your passport book or card.

Passport Book Fees

For routine processing, the fees for a passport book are:

• Application Fee: $130. This fee is paid to the U.S. Department of State.
• Execution Fee: $35. This fee is paid to the acceptance facility (e.g., post office, library) where you apply in person.

So, for a first-time adult passport book with routine service, the total standard fee is $165.

Passport Card Fees

The passport card is a cheaper, wallet-sized alternative, but it's only valid for land and sea travel to Canada, Mexico, Bermuda, and the Caribbean. It cannot be used for international air travel.

• Application Fee: $30. Paid to the U.S. Department of State.
• Execution Fee: $35. Paid to the acceptance facility.

The total standard fee for a first-time adult passport card is $65. — Best Affordable Manual Pickup Trucks In 2024

Fees for Minors (Under 16)

Minors under 16 have different fees. They do not pay the execution fee to the acceptance facility. However, both parents or guardians must apply with the child, and all applicants must appear in person.

• Application Fee: $100. Paid to the U.S. Department of State.
• Execution Fee: None for the minor.

The total fee for a passport book for a minor is $100. For a passport card for a minor, the application fee is $15, making the total $15.

The Additional Cost of Expedited Passport Service

When you need your passport faster than the standard processing times, you'll incur an additional fee for expedited service. This fee significantly cuts down the turnaround time.

• Expedited Service Fee: $60. This fee is paid to the U.S. Department of State and is in addition to the standard application and execution fees.

This $60 fee is applied per application. So, if you're applying for a passport book and card simultaneously, you'll pay the $60 expedite fee once for the combined application. The execution fee, however, is paid separately for each document if applying for both.

Calculating the Total Cost of an Expedited Passport

Let's put it all together. The total cost depends on whether you're getting a book, a card, or both, and if you're a first-time applicant or renewing.

First-Time Adult Expedited Passport Book:

• Application Fee: $130
• Execution Fee: $35
• Expedited Service Fee: $60
• Total Cost: $225

First-Time Adult Expedited Passport Card:

• Application Fee: $30
• Execution Fee: $35
• Expedited Service Fee: $60
• Total Cost: $125

First-Time Adult Expedited Passport Book and Card:

• Application Fee (Book): $130
• Application Fee (Card): $30
• Execution Fee (for Book): $35
• Execution Fee (for Card): $35
• Expedited Service Fee: $60
• Total Cost: $290

Expedited Renewal by Mail (if eligible):

If you are eligible to renew by mail, you do not pay an execution fee. The fees are:

• Application Fee (Book): $130
• Expedited Service Fee: $60
• Total Cost: $190

Note: Passport card renewals can only be done by mail if you were issued a card and are not eligible for renewal by mail. You would pay the $30 application fee plus the $60 expedited service fee for a total of $90.

When Expedited Service is Necessary

Expedited service is typically recommended if your international travel date is within 6 weeks. The standard processing times can fluctuate significantly based on demand, and even expedited times can be impacted during peak travel seasons. Always check the current processing times on the Department of State's website before making your plans.

As of recent updates, routine processing can take several weeks, while expedited processing typically aims for a turnaround of 2-3 weeks, not including mailing times. However, these are estimates, and actual times can vary.

Optional Add-ons: 1-2 Day Delivery

In addition to the expedited service fee, you can also pay for faster delivery of your completed passport book. This is a separate fee paid to the U.S. Department of State.

• 1-2 Day Delivery Fee: $19.53. This fee covers the cost of sending the completed passport book back to you via overnight or 2-day delivery service. This does not speed up the processing at the State Department, only the delivery time once it's ready.

This option is particularly useful if you've received your passport via mail and want to ensure it arrives quickly once it's shipped.

How to Request Expedited Service

There are two primary ways to get expedited passport service:

1. At an Acceptance Facility: When filling out your application (Form DS-11 for new passports), indicate that you require expedited service. You will pay the expedited fee along with the other required fees. You must submit proof of your urgent travel, such as a flight itinerary or hotel reservation, if your travel is within 14 days.
2. By Mail (Renewals Only): If you are eligible for renewal by mail (Form DS-82), you will include the $60 expedited fee with your application package. Ensure you clearly mark "EXPEDITE" on the outside of the envelope.

Important Note: If you have an emergency international travel situation that requires a passport in less than 14 calendar days, you may be eligible for an appointment at a passport agency or center. These appointments are limited and require proof of urgent, life-or-death emergencies or immediate international travel.

Alternatives and Considerations

While the expedited fee gets you your passport faster, it's essential to plan ahead. For frequent international travelers, maintaining a passport with ample time before expiration is key.

• Standard Processing: If you have 10-12 weeks or more before your travel, standard processing is the most cost-effective option.
• Urgent Travel: For travel within 6 weeks, expedited service is generally necessary. For travel within 14 days, you'll need to seek an appointment at a passport agency.
• Passport Agency Appointments: These are reserved for true emergencies and require significant documentation. They offer the fastest way to get a passport but are difficult to secure.

Our experience shows that booking appointments at passport agencies is extremely challenging and should only be considered as a last resort. Planning ahead is always the most reliable strategy. — Denver Vs. Houston: Which City Should You Choose?

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: How much does an expedited passport cost for a child?

For a child under 16 applying for an expedited passport book, the total cost would be: $100 (application fee) + $60 (expedited service fee) = $160. There is no execution fee for minors. — NFL Trade Deadline Frenzy Trade Ends At 7:30 PM New England Time

Q2: Can I get a passport the same day with expedited service?

No, same-day service is generally not possible with standard expedited processing. Expedited service typically takes 2-3 weeks (plus mailing time), while urgent travel within 14 days may qualify for an appointment at a passport agency, which can sometimes provide same-day or next-day service under specific emergency circumstances.

Q3: Does the expedited fee guarantee faster processing?

While the expedited service fee is intended to significantly speed up processing times, it does not guarantee a specific delivery date. Processing times can fluctuate due to high demand. However, it is the official method to request faster service from the Department of State.

Q4: What is the difference between expedited service and 1-2 day delivery?

Expedited service speeds up the processing of your passport application by the Department of State. 1-2 day delivery is an optional add-on that speeds up the shipping of your completed passport book to you once it has been processed and printed.

Q5: How do I pay for expedited passport service?

Payment for expedited service is typically made to the U.S. Department of State. For new passports, you'll pay the fee along with other passport fees at the acceptance facility. For renewals by mail, you'll include the expedited fee with your application. Ensure you use the correct payment methods accepted by the Department of State (check their official website).

Q6: What happens if my travel is very soon?

If your international travel date is less than 14 days away, you must call to schedule an appointment at a passport agency or center. You will need to provide proof of your imminent travel. These appointments are limited and subject to availability.

Q7: Can I expedite a passport renewal if I'm not eligible for renewal by mail?

If you are not eligible for renewal by mail (e.g., your passport is damaged, was issued when you were under 16, or was issued more than 15 years ago), you must apply in person using Form DS-11. You can request expedited service when you apply in person, and the fees will be the same as a first-time applicant requesting expedited service.

Conclusion

Understanding the cost of an expedited passport is vital for travelers with time-sensitive plans. While the standard fees apply, the additional $60 expedited service fee is the key to faster processing. For a first-time adult passport book, expect to pay a total of $225. Always verify current processing times and fees on the official U.S. Department of State website, as these can change. Planning ahead is your best strategy to avoid the higher costs and stress associated with last-minute passport applications. If your travel is imminent, explore the options for appointments at passport agencies, but be prepared for limited availability and strict requirements.