How Much Does a USA Passport Cost? Your Comprehensive Guide

The cost of a USA passport varies depending on the type of passport you need (new, renewal, child’s passport) and the speed at which you require it. This comprehensive guide will break down all the fees involved and answer your burning questions about passport costs.

Passport Fees: A Detailed Breakdown

Here’s a clear breakdown of the current fees for different types of US passport applications:

• New Adult Passport (Age 16 and Older):
  • Application Fee: $130
  • Execution Fee: $35
  • Total: $165
• Adult Passport Renewal (Form DS-82 Eligibility):
  • Application Fee: $130
  • Execution Fee: N/A (Renewal by mail doesn’t require this)
  • Total: $130
• Child Passport (Under Age 16):
  • Application Fee: $100
  • Execution Fee: $35
  • Total: $135
• Passport Card (for Land and Sea Border Crossings to Canada, Mexico, Bermuda, and the Caribbean):
  • Adult (Age 16 and Older): $30
  • Child (Under Age 16): $15
• Expedited Processing: $60 (additional fee)
• 1-2 Day Delivery: $19.53 (additional fee; only for returning your processed passport)

It’s crucial to understand the difference between the application fee and the execution fee. The application fee is paid directly to the Department of State to process your application. The execution fee is paid to the acceptance facility (a post office, clerk of court, etc.) for administering the oath and verifying your identity when you apply in person.

Understanding Passport Types and Their Associated Costs

The pricing structure reflects the processes involved in acquiring different types of US travel documents.

• New Passport: This requires a full review of your documentation, verification of your identity through in-person application and the execution fee, and the creation of a new passport record.
• Renewal: Renewals are simpler. If you meet specific criteria, you can renew by mail, avoiding the execution fee altogether and simplifying the verification process.
• Child Passport: Because children’s appearances change rapidly and legal guardianship must be established, these applications require additional scrutiny and a separate fee structure.
• Passport Card: The passport card is less expensive than a passport book because it has limited functionality. It is only valid for land and sea border crossings to specific countries. It also simplifies production process, so it carries lower cost.

Factors Affecting Your Total Passport Cost

Beyond the basic fees, several factors can impact the total cost of obtaining your US passport.

• Expedited Processing: If you need your passport quickly, you can pay an extra $60 for expedited processing. This significantly reduces processing times, but it doesn’t guarantee you’ll receive your passport within a specific timeframe.
• Overnight Delivery: The fee for overnight delivery applies to the return shipping of the completed document, not the overall processing time.
• Passport Photos: Unless you already have compliant photos, you’ll need to pay for passport photos. Most pharmacies, post offices, and professional photographers offer this service, typically costing between $10 and $20.
• Acceptance Facility Fees (if applicable): Some acceptance facilities may charge additional fees for their services beyond the execution fee.

Payment Methods Accepted

The US Department of State accepts various payment methods for passport applications:

• Checks: Personal, certified, cashier’s, traveler’s (payable to “U.S. Department of State”).
• Money Orders: U.S. postal, bank, or express money orders (payable to “U.S. Department of State”).
• Credit/Debit Cards: Only for online renewals or when paying in person at a passport agency or center.

Cash is generally not accepted at most acceptance facilities or passport agencies. Ensure you have the correct form of payment before submitting your application to avoid delays.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Passport Costs

Here are some frequently asked questions about the cost of US passports, designed to provide even more clarity:

1. Are passport fees refundable if my application is denied? No, the application fee is generally non-refundable, even if your application is denied. However, if the denial is due to an error by the Department of State, you may be eligible for a refund.
2. Is the execution fee refundable? If you cancel the application before the execution is completed (before the acceptance agent witnesses your signature and verifies your ID), you may be able to get a refund. Contact the acceptance facility.
3. How long is a US passport valid? An adult passport (issued at age 16 or older) is valid for 10 years. A child’s passport (issued before age 16) is valid for 5 years.
4. Can I renew my passport online? Currently, only certain passport renewals are eligible for online renewal. Check the Department of State website to see if you meet the eligibility requirements.
5. What if I need my passport urgently? If you need a passport urgently due to a life-or-death emergency, you can contact the National Passport Information Center or visit a regional passport agency. Expedited processing and proof of the emergency are required.
6. What is the difference between a passport book and a passport card? The passport book is valid for international travel by air, land, and sea. The passport card is only valid for land and sea border crossings between the US and Canada, Mexico, Bermuda, and the Caribbean.
7. Can I pay for multiple passport applications with one check? Yes, you can pay for multiple passport applications with one check, as long as the total amount covers all the fees and the check is payable to “U.S. Department of State.” Include a list of applicants with the check.
8. Are there any discounts on passport fees? There are no general discounts on passport fees. However, U.S. government employees and their dependents assigned to official duty abroad may be eligible for reimbursement of passport fees.
9. Where can I find the most up-to-date information on passport fees? Always refer to the official website of the U.S. Department of State for the most accurate and up-to-date information on passport fees: travel.state.gov.
10. What documents do I need to submit with my passport application? Required documents vary depending on whether you are applying for a new passport, renewing, or applying for a child’s passport. Generally, you will need proof of citizenship (birth certificate, previous passport), proof of identity (driver’s license), and a passport photo.
11. How long does it take to process a passport application? Processing times vary depending on the demand. Check the Department of State website for current processing times, which are updated regularly.
12. What happens if my passport is lost or stolen? Report your lost or stolen passport immediately to the Department of State. You will need to complete Form DS-64 (Statement Regarding Lost or Stolen Passport) and apply for a replacement passport.

Understanding the costs associated with obtaining a US passport is essential for planning your international travels. By carefully reviewing this guide and the official Department of State website, you can ensure a smooth and stress-free passport application process. Remember to factor in all potential fees, including expedited processing, overnight delivery, and passport photos, to avoid any surprises. Happy travels!