Applying for a passport in the United States is a vital step for those planning to travel internationally. From vacations to studying abroad to conducting business, having a valid passport is a necessity. But many people wonder how much it costs to obtain this essential travel document. The answer isn’t as straightforward as you might think, as there are a few different factors that can affect the total cost.
The cost of a passport in the United States can vary depending on a few different factors. The main factor that determines the cost of a passport is the type of passport you are applying for. There are two main types of passports available to United States citizens: a passport book and a passport card. A passport book is the standard type of passport that allows for international travel by air, land, or sea. A passport card, on the other hand, is a more limited form of identification that can only be used for land and sea travel to Mexico, Canada, the Caribbean, and Bermuda.
The cost of a passport book for adults (those aged 16 and older) is currently $110. For minors (those under the age of 16), the cost is $80. In addition to the cost of the passport book itself, applicants will also need to pay an execution fee. This fee is $35 and is required for all first-time applicants, as well as for those who are replacing a lost or stolen passport. The total cost for an adult passport book, including the execution fee, is $145, while the total cost for a minor passport book is $115.
If you opt for a passport card instead of a passport book, the cost is slightly lower. The cost of a passport card for adults is $30, while the cost for minors is $15. The execution fee for a passport card is the same as for a passport book, $35. This brings the total cost for an adult passport card to $65 and the total cost for a minor passport card to $50.
Those who need to expedite their passport application will also incur additional costs. The fee for expedited service is $60 per application, in addition to the regular passport fees. Expedited service reduces the processing time for a passport from 4-6 weeks to 2-3 weeks. For those who need their passport even more quickly, there is also the option of using a passport expediting company. These companies can get a passport in as little as 24 hours, but their services can cost several hundred dollars in addition to the standard passport fees.
In addition to the cost of the passport itself, there are a few other potential costs to consider. For example, those who need to take a passport photo will need to pay for this service, as many passport acceptance facilities charge a fee for this. The cost of a passport photo varies depending on where you have it taken, but it is typically around $15-20. Additionally, if you need to renew your passport, there will be a separate renewal fee of $110 for adults and $80 for minors.
Overall, the cost of getting a passport in the United States can vary depending on a few different factors. The type of passport you are applying for, whether you need expedited service, and any additional fees for things like passport photos can all affect the total cost. However, for most people, the total cost of obtaining a passport will be between $65 and $200. While this may seem like a significant expense, having a valid passport is essential for international travel and can open up a world of opportunities for those who hold one.
