The cost of obtaining a US passport has been a hot topic of discussion in recent months, with many wondering just how much it costs to apply for this important travel document. As international travel slowly opens up after the COVID-19 pandemic, more and more people are looking into obtaining or renewing their passports in order to explore the world once again.
The price of a passport varies depending on several factors such as the type of passport, the age of the applicant, and how quickly they need the passport. Currently, the cost of getting a US passport for an adult (16 years and older) is $110 for a passport book and $30 for a passport card. The passport book is the traditional passport that allows for travel by air, sea, and land, while the passport card is just for land and sea travel to Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Bermuda.
For minors under the age of 16, the cost is slightly lower at $80 for a passport book and $15 for a passport card. Minors must also have the consent of both parents or legal guardians in order to apply for a passport, adding an extra layer of complexity to the process.
In addition to the basic application fees, there are also additional costs for expedited processing. For an extra $60, applicants can have their passports expedited, which means they will receive their passport within 2-3 weeks instead of the standard 4-6 weeks. For those in a rush, there is also the option of paying an extra $17.56 for overnight delivery of the passport.
One important thing to note is that the cost of a passport does not only include the application fee. There are also additional fees for things like passport photos, which can range from $10-$15, and the cost of any supporting documents that may be required, such as birth certificates or marriage certificates.
For those looking to renew their passport, the process is a bit simpler and cheaper. A passport renewal for an adult is $110 for a passport book and $30 for a passport card, while for minors the cost is $80 for a passport book and $15 for a passport card. The renewal process can typically be done by mail, which can save applicants time and money compared to applying for a new passport in person.
Overall, the cost of obtaining a US passport can vary depending on several factors, but for most people, the basic application fees range from $110-$145 for adults and $80-$95 for minors. While this cost may seem high to some, especially for families with multiple children, the benefits of having a passport are invaluable.
A US passport allows Americans to travel freely around the world, allowing them to experience different cultures, explore new destinations, and create amazing memories. It is also an important form of identification and proof of citizenship, which can be essential for a variety of purposes.
As international travel slowly resumes and more people start planning trips abroad, it is important for Americans to be aware of the cost of obtaining a passport and to budget accordingly. Planning ahead and applying for a passport in advance can help save money and avoid any last-minute rush fees.
In conclusion, the cost of getting a US passport varies depending on several factors, but for most people, the basic application fees range from $110-$145 for adults and $80-$95 for minors. While this cost may seem high to some, the benefits of having a passport far outweigh the financial investment. So, for those looking to explore the world and embark on new adventures, investing in a passport is definitely worth it.
