As travel restrictions begin to ease and countries reopen their borders, many Americans are eager to dust off their suitcases and passports and finally plan that long-awaited vacation. However, before jetting off to an exotic destination, one essential item travelers must have in hand is a valid passport.
For California residents looking to renew their passport or obtain a new one, the cost can vary depending on several factors. The U.S. Department of State sets the fees for passports, and it’s important to be aware of these costs before beginning the application process.
Currently, the fee for a new adult passport book (for applicants 16 and older) is $110. In addition, there is a $35 execution fee, which must be paid separately. This brings the total cost for a new adult passport book to $145. For minors under the age of 16, the fee for a passport book is $80, plus the $35 execution fee, making the total cost $115.
It’s important to note that these fees are for routine processing, which typically takes 6-8 weeks to receive your new passport. If you need your passport sooner, expedited processing is available for an additional fee of $60. This will reduce the processing time to 2-3 weeks.
For those who need their passport in a hurry, there is also the option of using the expedited passport service at a passport agency or center. This service is for customers traveling internationally in less than two weeks or who need to obtain a foreign visa within four weeks. The fee for expedited service at a passport agency is $60, on top of the regular passport fees.
In addition to the passport book, travelers may also want to consider obtaining a passport card. The passport card is a more convenient and less expensive alternative to the passport book for those who frequently travel by land or sea to Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Bermuda. The fee for a new adult passport card (for applicants 16 and older) is $30, plus the $35 execution fee, bringing the total cost to $65. For minors under the age of 16, the fee for a passport card is $15, plus the $35 execution fee, making the total cost $50.
While the cost of obtaining a passport may seem steep, it’s important to remember that a passport is a valuable document that allows you to travel internationally and explore new destinations. When budgeting for your trip, be sure to factor in the cost of obtaining or renewing your passport to avoid any last-minute surprises.
In addition to the fees set by the U.S. Department of State, there may be additional costs associated with obtaining a passport, such as passport photos, shipping fees, and expedited processing fees if needed. It’s important to carefully review all the requirements and fees before submitting your passport application to ensure a smooth and hassle-free process.
For California residents looking to apply for a passport, there are several options available. You can visit your local post office, county clerk’s office, or a passport acceptance facility to submit your application. Many of these locations offer passport photo services for an additional fee, making it a convenient one-stop shop for all your passport needs.
If you’re in a hurry to obtain your passport, you may also consider using a private passport expediting service. These services can help expedite the passport application process and ensure you receive your passport in time for your upcoming trip. While these services do come with an additional cost, many travelers find the peace of mind and convenience they provide to be well worth it.
As you plan your next international adventure, be sure to budget for the cost of obtaining or renewing your passport. By being aware of the fees and requirements upfront, you can avoid any delays or setbacks in your travel plans and focus on making lasting memories in your destination of choice.
