In recent years, the demand for U.S. passports has been steadily increasing. Whether it’s for work, study, travel, or simply exploring the world, having a passport has become a necessity for many adults. But how much does a U.S. passport cost for adults? Let’s break it down.
As of 2022, the cost of a U.S. passport for adults (age 16 and older) varies depending on the type of passport you need and how quickly you need it. The two main types of U.S. passports are the passport book and the passport card. The passport book is the standard passport that allows you to travel internationally by air, sea, or land. The passport card, on the other hand, is a wallet-sized card that allows you to travel by land or sea to Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Bermuda.
For a first-time adult applicant, the total cost of a U.S. passport book is $165. This includes a $110 application fee and a $35 execution fee. The passport card, on the other hand, costs $140 for first-time adult applicants ($30 application fee + $35 execution fee). It’s important to note that the passport card cannot be used for international air travel, so if you plan on flying internationally, you will need a passport book.
If you need your passport in a hurry, you can expedite the process for an additional fee. Expedited service for a passport book costs an extra $60 and will shorten the processing time to 4-6 weeks (compared to the standard 10-12 weeks). If you need your passport even faster, you can make an appointment at a passport agency or center for an additional expedited fee of $35. This option allows you to receive your passport within 1-3 weeks.
Renewing a U.S. passport for adults is slightly cheaper than applying for a new one. The total cost for a passport book renewal is $130 ($110 application fee + $35 execution fee), while the passport card renewal costs $30 ($30 application fee). The renewal process is generally quicker than applying for a new passport, with processing times ranging from 4-6 weeks for standard renewal to 1-3 weeks for expedited renewal.
In addition to the passport fees, there are other costs associated with obtaining a U.S. passport. One such cost is the cost of passport photos. You will need to provide two identical, recent passport photos with your passport application. Many post offices, FedEx stores, and drugstores offer passport photo services for a fee, typically ranging from $8 to $15.
Another cost to consider is the cost of shipping your passport application to the passport agency. If you choose to mail your application, you will need to factor in the cost of postage and any additional fees for tracking or expedited shipping. Alternatively, you can apply for your passport in person at a passport acceptance facility, such as a post office or library, to avoid shipping costs.
It’s important to note that the cost of a U.S. passport is subject to change, so it’s always a good idea to check the latest fees on the U.S. Department of State’s official website before applying. Additionally, some applicants may be eligible for fee waivers or discounts based on certain criteria, such as being a member of the military or a family member of a deceased military service member.
Overall, the cost of a U.S. passport for adults can vary depending on your specific needs and how quickly you need it. Whether you’re renewing an existing passport or applying for a new one, it’s important to budget for the passport fees and any additional costs, such as passport photos and shipping. With proper planning and preparation, obtaining a U.S. passport can be a straightforward process that opens up a world of opportunities for international travel and exploration.
