Have you ever dreamed of traveling abroad? Whether planning an exotic vacation, studying abroad, or attending a business meeting overseas, you’ll need a passport. And if you’re applying for a new passport, you’ll want to know the fees.
Passport fees can vary based on age, the type of passport you’re applying for, and how quickly you need it. Knowing what fees you can expect to pay is an essential part of the passport application process.
This blog will explore the various passport fees you may encounter when applying for a new or renewing an existing passport. We’ll also dive into the difference between execution and application fees and explain why new passport applicants and those applying for a child passport may have to pay an extra fee. So, let’s get started and uncover the world of passport fees!
Execution (Acceptance) Fee
When you apply for a passport, you may be required to pay an execution or acceptance fee. An execution fee is charged when you apply for a new passport, and it is paid to the acceptance facility. This fee is in addition to the application fee. The execution fee covers verifying your identity and accepting your application.
Accepted Modes of Payment and Acceptance Fees
When applying for a new passport, you must pay an application and an execution (acceptance) fee. The application fee goes directly to the State Department to process your passport application. In contrast, the execution fee goes to the authorized acceptance facility, such as a post office, county clerk’s office, or library.
It’s essential to note that acceptance facilities only accept payment for the execution fee through personal checks or money orders. You cannot use cash or credit cards to pay the execution fee. On the other hand, the application fee can be paid using several payment methods, including:
- Personal check (if applying by mail)
- Money order (if applying in person)
- Credit card (if applying in person)
- Debit card (if applying in person)
It’s important to note that if you’re applying for a passport at a regional agency, you may be required to pay the application fee by cash or credit card.
The acceptance fee is a one-time fee charged to first-time applicants, those replacing a lost or stolen passport, and children under 16. It’s important to note that some acceptance facilities may charge an additional fee for taking your passport photo or providing expedited services. These fees vary by location, so check with your local acceptance facility for more information. By knowing what to expect, you can ensure a smooth and hassle-free application process.
Fees for New Passport Applicants
If you’re applying for a new passport, here are the fees you can expect to pay:
Passport Book:
- Application Fee: $130
- Execution (Acceptance) Fee: $35
Passport Card:
- Application Fee: $30
- Execution (Acceptance) Fee: $35
Passport Book & Card:
- Application Fee: $160
- Execution (Acceptance) Fee: $35
It’s important to note that the execution (acceptance) fee is paid to the acceptance facility, such as a post office or government agency, and not to the State Department.
Fees for Passport Renewals
If you’re renewing an expired passport, here are the fees you can expect to pay:
Passport Book:
- Application Fee: $130
Passport Card:
- Application Fee: $30
Passport Book & Card:
- Application Fee: $160
Fees for Children’s Passports
Children under the age of 16 have different passport fees than adults. Here’s a breakdown of the fees for children’s passports:
Passport Book:
- Application Fee: $100
- Execution (Acceptance) Fee: $35
Passport Card:
- Application Fee: $15
- Execution (Acceptance) Fee: $35
Passport Book & Card:
- Application Fee: $115
- Execution (Acceptance) Fee: $35
State Department’s Passport Fee Calculator
The State Department provides a fee calculator to help applicants determine the total fees required for their passport application. The fee calculator considers the type of passport, age of the applicant, and processing time, among other factors, to provide an accurate estimate of the total fees required.
To use the fee calculator, visit the State Department’s website and navigate to the passport fees page. From there, select the type of passport you’re applying for, whether it’s a new passport, renewal, or child passport, and then provide your age and processing time. The fee calculator will then provide an estimated total fee, including both the application fee and the execution fee.
Using the fee calculator can help you avoid surprises when it’s time to pay for your passport. It’s important to note that the estimated fees provided by the calculator are subject to change, and additional fees may apply depending on your circumstances.
Expedited Services
You can request expedited services if you need your passport sooner than the standard processing time. This service costs an additional $60 per application and ensures that your passport will be processed within 4-6 weeks.
Private Couriers
In addition to expedited services, private couriers can help you get your passport faster. These couriers can help you with the application process and the execution (acceptance) process if needed. Private couriers can be reliable and efficient, making them a good choice for travelers who need their passports quickly.
The Passport Office
Another option for obtaining a passport quickly is to use The Passport Office. Depending on your needs, this company can help you get your passport in 3-5 days. They offer various services, including expedited passport processing, renewals, and child passports. You can book an appointment by walking in, online, or over the phone to use their services.
Final Thoughts
Obtaining a passport is an essential part of traveling abroad. By understanding the fees involved, you can better plan for the costs and ensure you have the necessary documentation for your trip. Whether you’re a first-time applicant or renewing an expired passport, knowing the passport fees to be aware of can help make the process smoother and more efficient.
