How much does a passport cost

A passport is an essential document required for international travel, serving as proof of identity and citizenship. The cost of obtaining a passport can vary depending on various factors such as age, type of passport, and processing time. This article aims to explore the different expenses associated with obtaining a passport and provide a breakdown of the costs involved.

The United States Department of State is responsible for issuing passports to U.S. citizens. As of October 2021, the current fees for obtaining a U.S. passport are as follows:

1. Passport Book: For individuals aged 16 and older, the application fee is $110, while the execution fee, which covers the processing and mailing of the passport, is $35. Therefore, the total cost for a passport book is $145. For applicants under 16 years old, the application fee is $80, while the execution fee remains the same, making it a total of $115.

2. Passport Card: A passport card is a wallet-sized card that can be used for land and sea travel between the United States, Canada, Mexico, Bermuda, and the Caribbean. The application fee for individuals aged 16 and older is $30, while the execution fee is $35, making the total cost for a passport card $65. For applicants under 16 years old, the application fee is $15, and the execution fee remains the same, resulting in a total cost of $50.

It is important to note that both the passport book and passport card are valid for 10 years for individuals aged 16 and older, while for applicants under 16 years old, they are valid for 5 years.

Additionally, there are expediting fees for those who require their passport urgently. The expedited service fee is $60 per application, and overnight delivery costs an additional $17.56 per application. These fees are in addition to the standard passport fees mentioned above.

Furthermore, individuals who need to renew their passport can do so by mail as long as their previous passport meets certain criteria. The current renewal fee for a passport book is $110, while the renewal fee for a passport card is $30. However, if an individual wants to change the name on their passport, they must apply in person and follow the process of obtaining a new passport.

It is crucial to consider the processing time when applying for a passport. The standard processing time for routine service is typically 10-12 weeks, while expedited service reduces the processing time to 4-6 weeks. The aforementioned expedited service fee applies to expedited applications.

In conclusion, the cost of obtaining a passport depends on various factors such as age, type of passport, and processing time. The fees range from $50 to $145, including application and execution fees for both passport books and passport cards. Expedited service and overnight delivery options are available for an additional cost. It is advisable to plan ahead and apply for a passport well in advance to avoid any additional rush fees.