How Much Does An American Passport Cost?

Securing an American passport is a crucial step for international travel, and understanding the associated costs is essential for proper budgeting. The price of a U.S. passport can vary depending on several factors, including the type of passport book or card you need, whether it's a new application or a renewal, and if expedited services are required. For most adult applicants seeking a new passport book, the total fees typically amount to $130. This breaks down into a $100 application fee paid to the U.S. Department of State and a $30 execution fee paid directly to the acceptance facility where you submit your application.

It's important to note that these fees are subject to change, and it's always best to consult the official U.S. Department of State website for the most current pricing information before you apply. Planning ahead and understanding these costs will ensure a smoother application process for your international travel needs.

New Passport Application Fees

When applying for a new U.S. passport, whether it's your first passport book or you're replacing a lost or stolen one, there are specific fees you'll need to account for. The primary cost is the application fee, which is paid directly to the U.S. Department of State. This fee covers the processing and issuance of your passport.

Passport Book Fees

For an adult (age 16 and older) applying for a new passport book, the application fee is currently $130. This document is valid for international travel by air, land, and sea. In addition to the application fee, you will also pay an execution fee. This fee, typically $30, is paid to the facility where you submit your application, such as a post office or county clerk's office. Therefore, the total cost for a new adult passport book is $160.

Passport Card Fees

The U.S. Passport Card is a more affordable alternative for specific types of international travel. It is valid for land and sea travel to Canada, Mexico, Bermuda, and the Caribbean. It is not valid for international air travel. The application fee for a new adult passport card is $30, with an additional $30 execution fee, bringing the total cost to $60.

Applying for Both Book and Card

If you anticipate needing both a passport book and a passport card, you can apply for them simultaneously. This can be more cost-effective than applying for them separately. The application fee for both is $160, plus the $30 execution fee, for a total of $190. This option provides the most flexibility for various travel scenarios. — Grizzlies Vs. Mavericks: Where To Watch The Game Live

Passport Renewal Costs

Renewing your U.S. passport is generally less expensive than applying for a new one, provided you meet the eligibility requirements for renewal by mail. The primary reason for this is that you do not have to pay the execution fee again when renewing by mail. This can significantly reduce the overall cost.

Routine Renewal

For routine renewals of a passport book, the application fee is $130. Since you are typically mailing your application, you avoid the $30 execution fee. This makes the cost of renewing a passport book $130.

Expedited Renewal

If you need your renewed passport faster than the standard processing times, you can opt for expedited services. The expedited fee for a passport book renewal is an additional $60. This brings the total cost for an expedited passport book renewal to $190 ($130 renewal fee + $60 expedited fee).

Additional Fees and Considerations

Beyond the standard application and renewal fees, there are other costs that you might encounter when obtaining or replacing a U.S. passport. Understanding these can help you avoid surprises. — Election Day 2025: Your Complete Guide

Expedited Service Fees

When time is of the essence, you can pay an additional fee for expedited processing. This service significantly shortens the turnaround time for your passport application. The current fee for expedited service is $60, which is in addition to the regular application fee. This fee is paid to the U.S. Department of State.

Fees for Children Under 16

Applying for a passport for a minor (under age 16) has slightly different fee structures. The application fee for a child's passport book is $100, and the execution fee is $35. This is because parental consent is required, and additional documentation is needed, which incurs a slightly higher execution fee. The total cost for a new child's passport book is $135. For a child's passport card, the application fee is $15, plus the $35 execution fee, totaling $50. — Total By Verizon: Find Your Phone Number

Replacement of Lost or Stolen Passports

If your passport is lost or stolen, you will need to apply for a new one. This means you will have to pay the full application and execution fees as if you were applying for the first time. There is no reduced fee for replacing a lost or stolen passport. You will need to complete Form DS-11 and submit it in person, along with all required documentation and fees.

Photos

Passport photos are a required element of the application process. Most acceptance facilities offer photo services for an additional fee, typically ranging from $10 to $15. Alternatively, you can get your photos taken at many retail stores or pharmacies, often for a similar price. Ensuring your photos meet the strict requirements of the U.S. Department of State is crucial to avoid application delays.

How to Save Money on Passport Fees

While passport fees are set by the government, there are ways to manage and potentially reduce the costs associated with obtaining your travel document.

Renew by Mail When Possible

As mentioned earlier, renewing your passport by mail is generally the most cost-effective method. This is because you avoid the $30 execution fee charged by acceptance facilities. If your previous passport was issued when you were 16 or older, is undamaged, was issued within the last 15 years, and was issued in your current name (or you can document your name change), you are likely eligible to renew by mail.

Consider the Passport Card for Specific Travel

If your travel plans are limited to land or sea crossings to contiguous territories (Canada, Mexico, Caribbean), the passport card can be a significantly cheaper option than the passport book. Remember, it is not valid for international air travel, so assess your travel needs carefully.

Avoid Expedited Fees if Time Permits

If you have ample time before your planned international travel, opt for routine processing. The expedited fee adds a substantial amount to the total cost. Planning your passport application or renewal at least 6 months in advance is highly recommended to allow for routine processing times.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: What is the current cost for a new adult U.S. passport book? A1: The application fee for a new adult passport book is $130, plus a $30 execution fee, totaling $160.

Q2: Can I renew my passport online? A2: Currently, U.S. passport renewals can only be done by mail for eligible individuals. Online renewal options are not yet available.

Q3: How much does it cost to expedite a passport? A3: The fee to expedite a passport is an additional $60, on top of the regular application fee.

Q4: Is the passport card valid for air travel? A4: No, the U.S. Passport Card is not valid for international air travel. It is only valid for land and sea travel to specific destinations.

Q5: What are the fees for a child's passport? A5: For a child under 16, the application fee for a passport book is $100, with a $35 execution fee, totaling $135.

Q6: Do I have to pay the execution fee if I renew my passport by mail? A6: No, the execution fee is typically waived when you renew your passport by mail, making it a more cost-effective option.

Q7: Where can I find the most up-to-date passport fee information? A7: The most accurate and up-to-date passport fee information can always be found on the official U.S. Department of State website.