The Cost of Getting an American Passport: What You Need to Know
In today’s uncertain world, having a passport has become more important than ever. Whether it’s for traveling abroad, attending international conferences, or even for emergency situations, having a passport is a must-have document for all American citizens. However, obtaining a passport is not as simple as it seems, especially when it comes to the cost involved.
So, how much does it actually cost to get an American passport? Let’s break it down.
First and foremost, there are two types of passports available for American citizens: a passport book and a passport card. A passport book is the traditional form of a passport and can be used for all international travel by air, sea, or land. On the other hand, a passport card can only be used for land and sea travel to and from Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Bermuda. The cost of each type of passport varies, so it’s essential to know which one you need before applying.
For a first-time adult applicant (age 16 and older), the cost of a passport book is $110. In addition, there is also an execution fee of $35, which must be paid separately. This brings the total cost of a first-time adult passport book to $145. For a passport card, the cost is slightly lower at $30, with an execution fee of $35, making the total cost $65.
For minors (under the age of 16), the cost of a passport book is $80, with an execution fee of $35, bringing the total cost to $115. A passport card for minors costs $15, with the same execution fee of $35, making the total cost $50. It’s important to note that minors must apply in person, regardless of which type of passport they are applying for.
Renewing a passport is a less expensive process compared to applying for a new one. The cost of renewing an adult passport book is $110, with no additional execution fee. For passport card renewal, the cost is $30. Minors can also renew their passports at a lower cost, with a passport book renewal costing $80 and a passport card renewal costing $15.
In addition to the standard passport fees, there are other optional services available for an additional cost. Expedited processing, which shortens the processing time to 4-6 weeks, costs an additional $60. If you need your passport in a hurry, there is also a rush service available for an additional fee of $17.13, which can get your passport to you in as little as 8-11 business days.
For those who travel frequently, there is also the option of getting a passport with extra pages. This service costs an additional $0, and it allows for more visa stamps and entries in your passport. Similarly, if you run out of blank pages in your passport, you can request additional pages for a fee of $82.
Overall, the cost of getting an American passport can add up quickly, especially if you opt for expedited processing or additional services. It’s essential to plan ahead and budget for these costs if you are considering applying for or renewing your passport.
In conclusion, having a passport is an essential document for all American citizens, especially in today’s globalized world. While the cost of getting a passport may seem high, it is a small price to pay for the convenience and security it provides. Whether you are planning to travel abroad or simply want to be prepared for any situation, getting an American passport is a worthwhile investment.
