Arkansas residents looking to renew or obtain a new passport may be wondering how much the process will cost them. The price of a passport in Arkansas varies depending on several factors, such as the type of passport being applied for and the applicant’s age. In this article, we will explore the costs associated with obtaining a passport in Arkansas and provide helpful information for those looking to embark on their international travel journey.
First and foremost, it is important to understand the different types of passports available for purchase. The two main types of passports issued by the United States Department of State are the passport book and the passport card. The passport book is the traditional form of a passport and is valid for all types of international travel, while the passport card is a more compact, wallet-sized card that is only valid for land and sea travel between the United States, Canada, Mexico, Bermuda, and the Caribbean.
For adults aged 16 and older, the cost of a new passport book is $110, while the cost of a new passport card is $30. Adults who wish to purchase both a passport book and a passport card can do so for a combined fee of $140. Additionally, there is a $35 execution fee for all new passport applications, which must be paid separately from the passport fee. This execution fee covers the cost of verifying the applicant’s identity and citizenship, as well as administering the oath of allegiance.
For minors under the age of 16, the cost of a new passport book is $80, while the cost of a new passport card is $15. If a minor wishes to obtain both a passport book and a passport card, the combined fee is $95. As with adult applications, there is a $35 execution fee for all new passport applications for minors.
In addition to the aforementioned fees, there are additional optional services that applicants may choose to purchase. For example, expedited processing of a passport application costs an additional $60 and can significantly reduce the processing time for urgent travel needs. Applicants may also choose to use overnight delivery services for the return of their passport, which costs an additional $17.13. These optional services can be selected during the application process and must be paid for at the time of submission.
It is important to note that the fees mentioned above are for routine passport processing, which typically takes 4-6 weeks. For those in need of a passport in a shorter timeframe, expedited processing is available for an additional fee. Expedited processing can reduce the processing time to 2-3 weeks, making it a popular option for those with imminent travel plans.
For Arkansas residents looking to renew their passport, the process is relatively straightforward. Adult passport holders who were issued their current passport when they were 16 years of age or older can apply for a passport renewal by mail. The cost of renewing a passport book is $110, while the cost of renewing a passport card is $30. There is no execution fee for passport renewals.
To renew a passport by mail, applicants must submit their most recent passport, a completed DS-82 form, a passport photo, and the renewal fee. The passport photo must meet specific requirements for size, composition, and quality, so it is recommended that applicants have their photo taken at a professional passport photo service to ensure compliance. Once all required documents and fees have been submitted, applicants can expect to receive their renewed passport in the mail within a few weeks.
For those who need to expedite their passport renewal, this can be done by mail or in person at a passport acceptance facility or regional agency. To expedite a passport renewal by mail, applicants must include an additional fee of $60 and mark “EXPEDITE” on the outside of the envelope. Applicants can also visit a passport acceptance facility or regional agency in person to apply for an expedited renewal, where they will pay the fee and submit their documents for processing.
In conclusion, the cost of a passport in Arkansas varies depending on the type of passport being applied for and the applicant’s age. For adults aged 16 and older, a new passport book costs $110, while a new passport card costs $30. For minors under 16, a new passport book costs $80, while a new passport card costs $15. Applicants should be aware of additional fees, such as the $35 execution fee and optional services like expedited processing and overnight delivery.
For those looking to renew their passport, the process is relatively simple and can be done by mail or in person at a passport acceptance facility or regional agency. Renewal fees are the same as new application fees, but there is no execution fee for passport renewals. Expedited renewal services are available for an additional fee and can significantly reduce processing time for urgent travel needs.
Overall, obtaining or renewing a passport in Arkansas is a straightforward process, but applicants should be prepared for the costs associated with the service. By understanding the fees and optional services available, Arkansas residents can plan accordingly and ensure they have the necessary documentation for their international travel adventures.
