When planning international travel, one of the first things that comes to mind is getting a passport. Whether you’re a first-time applicant, renewing your passport, or securing one for your child, understanding the costs involved is crucial. This guide will break down the cost of a passport and other fees you should consider.
Are there any Hidden Costs You Should Consider?
Execution/Acceptance Fee: This fee, currently $35, applies to individuals under 16 or those applying for their first passport. It covers the cost of in-person services you receive when applying for a passport at designated locations such as post offices or libraries. These services encompass checking your application, verifying your identity, and ensuring all documents are in order. Essentially, it’s a processing fee for your in-person application.
It’s crucial to note that fees and regulations can change over time, so always verify the most up-to-date information on the official U.S. Department of State website or contact your chosen acceptance facility.
Passport Photos: You’ll need passport-sized photos to accompany your passport application. These photos must adhere to specific requirements set by the U.S. Department of State, covering factors like size, background color, and facial expression. Passport photos can be taken at various locations, such as drugstores, post offices, and photography studios, with costs typically ranging from $10 to $20.
Expedited Processing: If you’re in a hurry to obtain your passport, expedited processing can speed up the delivery time. This service, costing approximately $60, reduces the processing time to around 3-6 weeks during regular seasons.
How Much Does Your First Passport Cost?
If you’re obtaining your first passport and are 16 years or older, the process involves two main fees: the application fee and the execution (acceptance) fee.
Passport Book: This is the standard passport for international travel. To apply for it, complete the DS-11 form and pay an application fee of $130 and the execution (acceptance) fee of $35.
Passport Card: For travel to specific nearby countries like Canada or Mexico, you can opt for the wallet-sized passport card. The application process also requires the DS-11 form and costs $30 for the application fee and $35 for the execution (acceptance) fee.
Passport Book & Card: If you require both the regular passport book and the passport card for your first-time application, complete the DS-11 form and pay a total of $160, which includes the $35 execution (acceptance) fee.
Renewing a Passport
Renewing your passport is more straightforward than obtaining a new one because it doesn’t require the same identity verification or the execution fee.
Here is why you wont need to pay the extra $35:
Previous Verification: When you initially applied for your passport, a thorough identity verification process was conducted. The government confirmed your identity, checked your documents, and issued your passport. This initial verification is trusted for a certain period, typically up to 15 years.
Valid Passport: To renew your passport by mail using the DS-82 form, you’ll need your old passport, which should still be in good condition. Your previous passport serves as proof of identity, confirming your prior verification.
Streamlined Process: Since your identity was already checked during the initial application, the renewal process is more straightforward. It doesn’t require another in-person visit or extensive verification, saving time and effort for both you and the passport agency.
Maintaining Security: While renewals don’t involve as much identity verification, the government ensures that the previous passport was issued correctly and hasn’t been tampered with, maintaining security.
How Much Does a Passport Renewal Cost?
Passport Book: For renewing the regular passport (DS-82 form), the application fee is $130.
Passport Card: If you renew the passport card, the application fee is lower at $30.
Passport Book & Card: To renew the passport book and card, you’ll pay $160.
How Much Does A Child Passport Cost?
For children under 16 years old, obtaining a passport requires two fees:
Application Fee: The processing fee depends on the type of passport being applied for:
- Passport Book: $100
- Card: $15
- Passport Book & Card: $115
Acceptance Fee (Execution Fee): In addition to the application fee, there’s an acceptance fee of $35. This fee applies when applying for a child’s passport, regardless of the type you choose.
The Passport Office
The Passport Office has been a trusted passport expediter with significant connections in the industry for over 20 years. We provide expert services for new passports, renewals, child passports, name change applications, and assistance with lost, stolen, or damaged passports.
Do you need your new passport now?
The Passport Office is here to help with many passport services. Our friendly, knowledgeable staff, trusted in the industry, can assist you with expedited passport processing. We offer a 3-5 day turnaround time and can help you fill out your application, take your passport photos, and provide convenient offices in Tampa, Miami, Clearwater, Hollywood, Orlando, and Atlanta.
How does it work?
The Passport Office operates with expediting slots provided by the State Department. Our experienced couriers expedite your passport application on your behalf, ensuring a faster processing time. While using an expediting service may cost more than applying directly through the State Department, the convenience and speed of The Passport Office are often well worth it.
Our offices are located within 10 minutes of the closest passport acceptance facility, making it easy to verify your identity.
How to book an appointment with The Passport Office
We offer multiple ways to connect with us:
- Phone calls
- Walk-ins
- Appointments booked online
Should you have any questions about the passport application process, please contact us. We’re here to provide expert guidance and expedite your passport application efficiently.
In conclusion, understanding the costs of obtaining or renewing a passport is essential for planning international travel. Whether you’re applying for your first passport, renewing, or getting one for your child, being aware of fees and the process can make the experience smoother. Additionally, trusted passport expediters like The Passport Office can provide valuable assistance, saving you time and ensuring a faster turnaround for your passport.
