Renewing your U.S. passport is an essential task that many Americans need to undergo every ten years. However, with the increase in passport fees in recent years, many people are wondering just how much it costs to renew their passport. In this article, we will break down the current renewal fees for U.S. passports and provide some tips on how to save money during the renewal process.
As of October 1, 2020, the cost to renew an adult U.S. passport book is $110. This fee applies to all adult renewals, including those obtained through mail or in-person at a passport acceptance facility. For those who need to renew their passport card, the fee is $30. It’s worth noting that the prices for renewing child passports are slightly lower, with the passport book renewal fee being $80 and the passport card renewal fee being $15.
Additionally, if you are in a hurry and need expedited processing, you can pay an additional $60 for expedited service, which can get your passport ready within 4-6 weeks instead of the standard processing time of 10-12 weeks. If you need your passport even sooner, you can pay an extra fee for overnight delivery of your passport.
To renew your passport, you will need to fill out Form DS-82, which is the application for a U.S. passport by mail. You can find this form on the U.S. Department of State’s website or at a passport acceptance facility. You will also need to include your most recent passport, a passport photo, and the renewal fee. If your passport is damaged, lost, or stolen, you will need to follow a different process to replace it.
One way to save money on passport renewal is to plan ahead. By renewing your passport well before the expiration date, you can avoid having to pay expedited processing fees. Additionally, if you are a frequent traveler, consider getting a passport book instead of just a passport card, as the book allows you to travel to more destinations without needing additional visas.
Another way to save money on passport renewal is to take your own passport photo instead of paying a professional photographer to do it for you. The U.S. Department of State has strict requirements for passport photos, including the size of the photo, the background color, and the expression on your face. By following these guidelines and taking the photo yourself, you can save yourself some extra cash.
If you are in a financial hardship and cannot afford the passport renewal fee, you may qualify for a fee waiver. To apply for a fee waiver, you will need to fill out Form DS-11 and provide documentation of your financial situation. The fee waiver is only available for those with a household income below a certain threshold, so make sure to check the eligibility requirements before applying.
In conclusion, renewing your U.S. passport can be a costly but necessary process. By understanding the current renewal fees and following some tips to save money, you can make the passport renewal process more manageable. Whether you plan ahead, take your own passport photo, or apply for a fee waiver, there are ways to save money during the renewal process. So don’t wait until the last minute to renew your passport – start the process early and save yourself some money in the long run.
