The Cost of Obtaining a US Passport: What You Need to Know
Traveling to other countries can be an exciting adventure, but one essential item you need to have before you can embark on your journey is a passport. A passport serves as your official identification and allows you to enter and exit foreign countries. For US citizens, the process of obtaining a passport can be relatively simple, but there is one crucial factor that many people often overlook – the cost.
So, how much does a US passport cost? The price of obtaining a US passport can vary depending on several factors, including the type of passport you are applying for, your age, and how quickly you need to receive it.
The most common type of US passport is the standard adult passport book, which is valid for ten years. As of 2021, the cost of a standard adult passport book is $110 for the application fee and $35 for the execution fee, bringing the total cost to $145. For those under the age of 16, the cost of a standard child passport book is $80 for the application fee and $35 for the execution fee, totaling $115.
In addition to the standard passport book, there is also the option of obtaining a passport card, which is a more limited form of identification that can only be used for land and sea travel to Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Bermuda. The cost of a passport card for adults is $30 for the application fee and $35 for the execution fee, totaling $65. For children under the age of 16, the cost of a passport card is $15 for the application fee and $35 for the execution fee, totaling $50.
If you are in urgent need of a passport, there is an expedited service available for an additional fee. The expedited service can significantly reduce the processing time for your passport application, with most expedited applications being processed within 2-3 weeks. The cost of expedited service is $60, which is in addition to the standard passport application and execution fees. Therefore, the total cost of an expedited adult passport book would be $205, while the total cost of an expedited child passport book would be $175.
It is important to note that these fees are subject to change, so it is always a good idea to check the most up-to-date fee information on the official website of the US Department of State before applying for a passport. Additionally, there may be additional fees for other services, such as adding extra visa pages to your passport or replacing a lost or damaged passport.
When budgeting for your passport, it is also important to consider any additional costs that may be associated with international travel, such as visa fees, travel insurance, and transportation expenses. These costs can vary depending on the destination and the length of your stay, so it is a good idea to research these expenses before you plan your trip.
While the cost of obtaining a US passport may seem high to some, it is important to remember that a passport is a valuable investment that allows you to explore new places, experience different cultures, and create lasting memories. By properly budgeting for your passport and understanding the various fees involved, you can ensure that your travel plans go smoothly and that you are well-prepared for your next adventure.
