Thinking about traveling to or from the United States? Whether you're applying for your very first U.S. passport or planning to renew an old one, understanding the cost is an important first step.
From standard application fees to optional extras like expedited processing, this guide breaks down everything you need to know about U.S. passport prices—clearly, simply, and without the jargon. Let’s get started!
What Types of U.S. Passports Are Available?
When you’re thinking about getting a U.S. passport, there are actually two main types: a passport book and a passport card. They each have their own advantages and uses.
The passport book is required for international travel by air, sea, or land; can be used around the world and will get you to almost anywhere you need to go.
The passport card is a smaller, more convenient option if you are only driving to Canada or Mexico or cruising to Bermuda or the Caribbean.
So, which do you need? If you’re headed anywhere overseas, you’re going to want the passport book. However, if you’re going to just spend lots of time crossing the border to the north or south, the passport card could be your wallet-friendly solution.
Either way, now you know how to choose the right passport for your travel needs — because it’s as simple as deciding between giant rolling luggage and a backpack, right?!
How Much Does a U.S. Passport Cost?
First-Time Applicants
If you are applying for a U.S. passport for the first time, here is what you’ll need. The adult passport book is $130, with an additional $35 fee for execution, for a total of $165. If you’d rather have the passport card, it costs $30 plus $35 for execution.
And for the best of both worlds, the book and card together cost $165. Be sure to add up these costs based on your travel needs and prepare you for your next trip.
Passport Renewals
The good news for anyone renewing a passport is that it is typically cheaper! An adult passport book renewal costs $130 ($30 less than a new one), and there is no execution fee for renewals, helping you to save.
For passport card renewals, it is $30. As long as your previous passport is not damaged, it was issued within the past 15 years, and you were age 16 or older when it was issued, you can renew by mail.
Renewals take a lot of the legwork out and ensure that you are ready for the next adventure without having to start all over again.
Child Passports (Under 16)
Are you planning to get a passport for your child? A passport book for children under 16 is $100 (application fee and execution fee included). Meanwhile, a passport card will run $15 for the card and $35 for the execution fee.
If you want to get a passport book and the card, the fee is $115. When you go in to apply, one parent or guardian must be present.
The better you have everything prepared ahead of time, the easier that process will be. That means less stress for you and your family on your trip!
Extra Fees You Should Know About
Your passport can be a little expensive to make, too. If you’re rushed, you’ll likely want to expedite your passport.
That costs an additional $60 and helps speed the process along, which can be really helpful if your trip is quickly approaching. There is even the option for 1–2 day delivery for approximately $19.53 if you’re really pressed for time.
Passport photos. You can easily take these at home, but almost all places that print photos or your local USPS will do it for you (for a small fee, usually around $15).
Also, if you’re mailing anything back home, don’t forget to account for that too. It’s the little things that end up adding up!
To learn more details, you can visit the official website: https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/passports/how-apply/fees.html.
Where Can You Apply?
So you want to get a U.S. passport. Awesome! But how do you get one? Most people go to the post office, as many post offices double as a passport acceptance facility, and will accept all your forms and fees in one shot.
You can also try going to certain acceptance facilities (if there is one near you) or even a library in some locations.
If you’re overseas, that’s okay—U.S. embassies and consulates can hook you up, too. They provide the same procedures to get a passport while you’re outside the country.
Also exciting is that you can now renew your passport online (only a few places allow this so far). It’s possible you can now simply go online and renew without having to go in person and reload your passport.
Be sure to keep an eye on this the next time you renew, as it can save a lot of hassle!
FAQ
1. What’s the benefit of renewing a passport early?
By renewing early (up to six months before your card expires), you’re never caught off guard and will never have to pay expedite fees.
2. Is it more cost-effective to apply for both a passport book and a card at the same time?
Yes, it’s convenient. The cost is $195 total for both, and it covers all possible travel scenarios.
3. Can both parents be present when applying for a child’s passport?
Yes, usually both parents or guardians are asked to be present. This helps the process run more smoothly.
Conclusion
Getting a U.S. passport doesn’t have to be confusing or overwhelming—especially when you know what to expect.
Whether you’re applying for the first time or renewing before your next big trip, understanding the costs can help you plan better and avoid last-minute stress.
Safe travels, and may your next adventure be just a passport stamp away!