Introduction to US Passport Costs
The cost of a US passport can vary depending on the type of passport and the applicant's age. First-time applicants, minors, and those seeking expedited services will have different fees. It's essential to understand the current passport costs to plan and budget accordingly.
As a professional legal consultant, I will guide you through the various fees associated with obtaining a US passport, including application fees, execution fees, and any additional costs for expedited services or overnight delivery.
US Passport Application Fees
The application fee for a US passport book is currently $110 for adults and $80 for children under 16. The fee for a passport card is $30 for adults and $15 for children under 16. These fees are non-refundable and must be paid with a check or money order made payable to the US Department of State.
In addition to the application fee, first-time applicants must also pay an execution fee, which varies depending on the acceptance facility. This fee can range from $25 to $35 and is paid separately to the acceptance facility.
Expedited Passport Services
For an additional fee, applicants can expedite their passport application process. The expedited service fee is $60, and it can take 5-7 weeks to receive the passport. Expedited service at a regional agency is also available for an additional fee, which can take 8-14 days.
Overnight delivery is also available for an additional fee, which can range from $15 to $20, depending on the shipping method. It's essential to note that these fees are in addition to the application fee and execution fee.
Passport Renewal Costs
The cost to renew a US passport is currently $110 for a passport book and $30 for a passport card. The renewal process can be done by mail, and the application fee must be paid with a check or money order made payable to the US Department of State.
There is no execution fee for passport renewals, as the application is submitted by mail. However, applicants can pay an additional fee for expedited service or overnight delivery, if desired.
Payment Methods and Additional Costs
The US Department of State accepts checks and money orders made payable to the US Department of State. Credit and debit cards are not accepted for passport application fees. However, some acceptance facilities may accept credit and debit cards for the execution fee.
Additional costs may include the cost of passport photos, which can range from $10 to $15, depending on the location. Some applicants may also need to pay for overnight delivery or expedited service, which can add to the overall cost.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a passport cost for a child?
The cost of a passport for a child under 16 is $80 for a passport book and $15 for a passport card.
Can I pay for my passport application with a credit card?
No, the US Department of State only accepts checks and money orders made payable to the US Department of State for passport application fees.
How long does it take to get a passport?
The processing time for a passport can take 6-8 weeks, but expedited service is available for an additional fee, which can take 5-7 weeks.
Do I need to pay an execution fee for a passport renewal?
No, there is no execution fee for passport renewals, as the application is submitted by mail.
Can I get a passport in one day?
Yes, expedited service at a regional agency is available for an additional fee, which can take 8-14 days, but same-day or next-day service is not available.
How much does it cost to expedite a passport?
The expedited service fee is $60, and it can take 5-7 weeks to receive the passport.