Want to know the cost of Renewing a passport? Whether you’re renewing for the first time or this is a regular update, the fees can vary depending on several factors. Here, we’ll break down the fees, explain why they differ from getting a new passport, and tell you what you should expect to pay when renewing.
What Are the Fees for Passport Renewal?
The cost of renewing a passport in the United States generally includes a renewal fee and any additional services you may need. As of 2024, the basic renewal fee for an adult passport book is $130. If you need a passport card, that’s an extra $30.
These costs are lower than the fees for a brand-new passport because you’re renewing an existing document, so specific steps, like verification of citizenship, aren’t needed again. However, check the official passport website for the most up-to-date fees, which can change over time. You can also use the State Department Fee Calculator to determine the costs.
Why Passport Renewal Fees Are Different from New Passports
When you apply for a new passport, extra steps are involved, like verifying your citizenship and processing your application for the first time. This is why new passport applications cost more—$165 for adults and $135 for minors.
Renewing a passport is simpler because the passport office already has your information on file, reducing the processing work on their end.
What Can Change the Cost of Renewing Your Passport?
The basic renewal fee might be part of what you end up paying. Several factors can increase the overall cost:
- Expedited Service: If you need your passport quickly, expedited processing adds $60 to the fee. This can reduce the processing time from 10-13 weeks to 7-9 weeks.
- Shipping Fees: If you want your passport sent to you with faster shipping, there’s an extra fee of around $19.53 for one- to two-day delivery.
- Damaged Passport or Lost Passport: If your passport is damaged or lost, you may need to pay additional fees or submit extra paperwork, making the process more expensive than a standard renewal.
How to Know If You Qualify for Passport Renewal
Not everyone can renew a passport by mail, but most adult passport holders can. You qualify for renewal if:
- Your passport is not damaged or altered.
- You received your passport when you were 16 or older.
- It’s been issued in the last 15 years.
- Your passport has your current name (or you can provide legal documentation of a name change).
If you meet these criteria, you can complete the renewal process by mail. If not, you may need to apply for a new passport in person.
How to Apply for Passport Renewal
Once you know you qualify, the renewal process is simple. You’ll need to:
- Fill out the DS-82 form, which is available online.
- Mail in your completed form, your current passport, and a passport photo (which can’t be six months old).
- Include your payment for the renewal fee plus any extra costs for expedited service or faster shipping.
Send your application through a trackable mail service to ensure it arrives safely.
What Will the Total Costs Look Like?
For most people, the cost of renewing a passport by mail is $130, plus an additional $19.53 if you want faster shipping. However, if you need your passport quickly, adding expedited service costs around $209.53. If you need both expedited service and faster shipping, the total could go as high as $229.06.
If your passport is damaged or lost, costs might be higher depending on the specific circumstances.
Final Thoughts: The Cost of Passport Renewal
Renewing a passport is usually cheaper than getting a new one, but knowing what to expect in terms of fees and the total cost is key to avoiding surprises. Whether you choose standard or expedited service, plan to renew your passport in time for your next trip!
Need Your Passport Fast? The Passport Office Can Help!
The Passport Office is here for you if you need your passport sooner than standard processing times allow. Registered with the U.S. Department of State, we specialize in expedited passport services, helping travelers get their passports in as little as three days. While expedited services come with additional costs, the peace of mind and quick turnaround are worth it when you’re in a time crunch. Contact The Passport Office today to get started!
