In today’s fast-paced world, many people find themselves jetting off to exotic locales for business or pleasure. And while travel can be an exciting and enriching experience, it also requires careful planning and organization. One essential item for any traveler is a passport, the official document that proves one’s identity and citizenship.
For adults in the United States, obtaining a passport is a relatively straightforward process. But how much does it cost to get an adult passport? The answer to that question depends on several different factors, including whether the passport is being obtained for the first time or renewed, the type of passport being applied for, and how quickly the passport is needed.
First, let’s look at the basic cost of obtaining an adult passport in the United States. As of 2021, the fee for a first-time adult passport book is $130, plus a $35 execution fee. The execution fee is paid to the acceptance facility that processes the passport application and can be paid by check or money order made payable to the “U.S. Department of State.” For a first-time adult passport card, which is valid for land and sea travel to Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Bermuda, the fee is $30, plus the $35 execution fee.
For adults who already have a passport that is expired or will expire within the next six months, the cost of renewing a passport is slightly lower. As of 2021, the fee for renewing an adult passport book is $110, while the fee for renewing an adult passport card is $30. In both cases, the $35 execution fee still applies.
In addition to the basic fees for obtaining or renewing a passport, travelers may also have to pay extra fees for expedited processing. The fee for expedited processing is $60, in addition to the standard application fee. Expedited processing can reduce the processing time for a passport application to 4-6 weeks, compared to the typical 6-8 weeks for standard processing.
For travelers who need their passport in a hurry, there is also the option of using the expedited passport service at a passport agency or center. The fee for expedited service at a passport agency or center is $60, plus the standard application fee. But travelers should be aware that appointments at passport agencies and centers are limited and subject to availability, so it’s important to plan ahead and schedule an appointment as soon as possible.
In addition to the basic fees and expedited processing fees, travelers may also have to pay additional fees for special circumstances. For example, if a traveler needs to replace a lost or stolen passport, there is an additional fee of $130 for a new passport book or $30 for a new passport card. If a traveler needs to change the name on their passport, either due to marriage, divorce, or another reason, there is a fee of $130 for a new passport book or $30 for a new passport card.
Overall, the cost of obtaining an adult passport in the United States can range from $65 for a passport card renewal to $205 for a first-time adult passport book with expedited processing. While the fees may seem steep, a passport is an essential document for international travel and provides travelers with the ability to explore new places and cultures. So the next time you’re planning a trip abroad, be sure to budget for the cost of obtaining or renewing your passport. It’s a small price to pay for the adventure of a lifetime.
