The cost of getting a passport in California can vary depending on several factors. For those looking to obtain a new passport, renew an existing passport, or get a passport for a child, it’s essential to understand the fees associated with the process.
As of 2021, the cost of a new adult passport book in California is $110, while a passport card is $30. For those looking to renew their adult passport, the cost is $110 for a passport book and $30 for a passport card. If you need both a new passport book and card, the cost is $140.
For minors under the age of 16, the cost of a passport book is $80, and a passport card is $15. For renewals, the cost is the same as for a new minor passport.
However, these fees are just the base costs for the passport application process. There are additional fees that may apply depending on various factors. For example, expedited processing costs an additional $60 per application. This can be an added expense for those who need their passport in a hurry.
For those who are unable to apply for a passport in person at a passport agency or acceptance facility, there may be additional fees for using a third-party service to process the application.
It’s important to note that these fees are subject to change, so it’s essential to check the latest fee schedule before applying for a passport. Additionally, there may be additional fees for other services, such as adding extra visa pages or changing the name on a passport.
In addition to the cost of the passport itself, there are other expenses to consider when obtaining a passport. For example, there may be fees for passport photos, which are required as part of the application process. The cost of a passport photo can vary depending on where you have them taken.
There may also be costs associated with traveling to a passport agency or acceptance facility to submit your application. Whether you need to take time off work or incur transportation costs, these expenses should be factored into the overall cost of obtaining a passport.
For those who are looking to save money on their passport application, there are a few tips to consider. First, apply for your passport well in advance of any planned travel to avoid expedited processing fees. Additionally, try to take your passport photos yourself or find a low-cost option to save on that expense.
Ultimately, the cost of obtaining a passport in California can vary depending on several factors. By understanding the base fees and additional expenses that may apply, you can better budget for the cost of getting your passport and ensure that you have everything you need for your next international trip.
