How much does it cost for an expedited passport? This is a question that many travelers often ask when they find themselves in need of a passport in a hurry. Whether you have a last-minute trip planned or your current passport has expired, getting an expedited passport can be a quick and convenient solution. But like anything else, expedited passport services come at a cost. In this article, we will explore the different fees associated with obtaining an expedited passport and provide tips on how to save money in the process.
The cost of an expedited passport varies depending on several factors, including the type of passport you are applying for, your age, and how quickly you need it. The standard processing time for a passport is typically 4-6 weeks, but if you need it sooner, you can request expedited processing for an additional fee.
First, let’s start with the basic fees associated with obtaining a passport. For adults (age 16 and older), the application fee for a passport book is $110, while the fee for a passport card is $30. These fees are the same whether you apply for a standard processing time or expedited processing. For minors (under age 16), the application fee for a passport book is $80, and the fee for a passport card is $15.
In addition to the application fee, there is an execution fee of $35 for each passport application. This fee is paid to the acceptance facility where you submit your application, such as a post office or county clerk’s office. The execution fee is the same for both standard and expedited processing.
If you need your passport in a hurry, you can request expedited processing for an additional fee of $60. Expedited processing typically takes 2-3 weeks, compared to the standard processing time of 4-6 weeks. This fee is in addition to the application and execution fees mentioned above.
In some cases, travelers may need their passport even faster than 2-3 weeks. For these situations, the U.S. Department of State offers an expedited service called the Passport Agency. This service can process a passport in as little as 8 business days, but it comes with a hefty price tag. The fee for the Passport Agency service is $170, in addition to the application and execution fees.
So, in summary, the total cost for an expedited passport can range from $205 to $320, depending on the type of passport you are applying for and how quickly you need it. While these fees may seem steep, they are a necessary expense for travelers who find themselves in need of a passport in a hurry.
There are a few tips you can follow to save money on the cost of an expedited passport. First, plan ahead and apply for your passport well in advance of your trip. This will give you plenty of time to receive your passport using standard processing and avoid the extra fees associated with expedited processing.
If you do find yourself in need of an expedited passport, consider applying for a passport card instead of a passport book. The application fee for a passport card is only $30 for adults and $15 for minors, compared to $110 for a passport book. While a passport card cannot be used for international air travel, it is valid for land and sea travel to Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Bermuda.
Another tip for saving money on an expedited passport is to apply for a renewal instead of a new passport. If your current passport is expired or set to expire within the next 6 months, you can apply for a renewal and save the cost of the execution fee. Renewing a passport typically costs less than applying for a new one and can be done through the mail without the need for an in-person appointment.
In conclusion, the cost of an expedited passport can vary depending on your age, the type of passport you are applying for, and how quickly you need it. By planning ahead and following these money-saving tips, you can minimize the cost of obtaining an expedited passport and ensure that you are ready to travel at a moment’s notice. Safe travels!
