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How Much Does it Cost?
For adults above the age of 16, a single passport book would cost $110 plus a 25$ execution fee totalling a $135.
For those interested there is also the option of applying for a “Passport Card” (The U.S. Passport Card is a wallet-size travel document, issued to U.S. citizens only.), the cost of which is $30. However, the passport card cannot be used for international air travel. It can be used to enter the United States from Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Bermuda at land border crossings or sea ports-of-entry and is more convenient to carry and less expensive than a passport book.
Therefore, a combined fee of $165 will be charged to you, if you would like to get both items ($110 for the Passport Book + $30 for the Passport Card + $25 in execution fees).
The same fees apply on renewing your passport. However the execution fee of $25 does not apply and you will not be charged for it.
For minor applicants below the age of 16, different fees apply. The Passport Book alone would cost $80, whereas the minor Passport Card would cost $15. However, like adult applicants, the $25 execution fee still applies. Therefore, a combined purchase of both a Passport Book and a Passport Card is $95.
Optional Services
Aside from the required fees mentioned previously, there are several optional services you can take advantage of:
If you are in a hurry to get your passport, most agencies offer rush services at an additional charge of $60. An overnight delivery service is also available for an additional $12.85 to previous fees mentioned.
If for some reason you are unable to present evidence of citizenship a File Search can be done for an additional fee of $150. Applicants who are overseas and whose passport was lost or stolen are exempt from paying the File Search Fee.
Another special service is offered when a person wishes to add pages to his/her passport. A fee of $82 is required for this.
Where do I apply?
A good place to start from is the U.S. travel.state.gov website. This website includes all the relevant forms you would need to fill out to apply for a passport as well the up to date passport fees.
Tips
- Processing times can vary depending on workload and occasional unforeseen circumstances such as natural disasters. During busier times, such as the summer travel season, be sure to apply well in advance to expedite your applications if travelling in less than 10 weeks.
- When taking your passport photo be sure to take it according to the following guidelines.
- If possible, you should renew your passport approximately 9 months before it expires. Some countries require that your passport be valid at least 6 months beyond the dates of your trip. Some airlines will not allow you to board if this requirement is not met. If your passport has already expired, you may still be able to renew your passport by mail. See How to Renew Your U.S. Passport.