The cost of obtaining a passport in the United States has been a topic of discussion for many Americans who travel internationally or are looking to renew their travel document. With the recent changes to passport fees, it’s important for citizens to understand the process of getting a passport and the associated costs.
As of 2021, the cost of a passport for adults (age 16 and older) is $130 for a passport book or $30 for a passport card, which can be used for land and sea travel to Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Bermuda. For adults getting both a passport book and a passport card, the total cost is $160.
For minors (under the age of 16), the cost of a passport book is $60 and a passport card is $15. If a minor is getting both a passport book and a passport card, the total cost is $80.
In addition to the base cost of a passport, there are additional fees that may apply depending on the circumstances of the application. For example, expedited processing is available for an additional fee of $60 per application, plus $17.56 for overnight delivery of the passport book.
There are also fees associated with correcting errors on a passport, such as name changes or issuing a new passport in the case of a lost or stolen passport. These fees vary depending on the specific request and can range from $0 for a name change within one year of issuance to $140 for a new passport book for a lost or stolen passport.
It’s important for applicants to be aware of these additional fees and factor them into their budget when applying for a passport. Failure to pay all necessary fees may result in delays in processing or rejection of the application.
To apply for a passport, applicants must fill out Form DS-11, provide proof of U.S. citizenship, proof of identity, one passport photo, and payment for the applicable fees. The application can be submitted in person at a designated passport acceptance facility or by mail.
The processing time for a passport application can vary depending on the time of year and current demand. In general, routine processing takes 6-8 weeks, while expedited processing takes 2-3 weeks. It’s important for travelers to plan ahead and apply for a passport well in advance of their planned travel dates to avoid any last-minute issues.
Overall, the cost of obtaining a passport in the United States can vary depending on the type of passport needed, additional fees for expedited processing or corrections, and other factors. It’s important for travelers to be aware of these costs and plan accordingly when applying for a passport to ensure a smooth and timely process.
