Applying for a passport is a crucial step when planning international travel. Understanding the costs associated with obtaining this essential document is important for budgeting and ensuring a smooth application process. This guide breaks down the various fees involved in getting a U.S. passport, helping you navigate the costs effectively.
Understanding Passport Fees
The total cost of a passport isn’t just one lump sum. It’s composed of different types of fees, each covering specific parts of the application process. Knowing these distinctions will help you understand exactly what you’re paying for. Primarily, you’ll encounter application processing fees and acceptance fees. Additionally, there might be extra costs for expedited services or passport photos if you choose to utilize those options.
Types of Passport Fees
- Application Processing Fee: This fee is paid directly to the U.S. Department of State and covers the cost of processing your passport application. The amount varies depending on whether you are applying for a passport book, a passport card, or both, and whether you are an adult or a minor.
- Acceptance Fee: If you are applying in person (required for first-time applicants, minors, and some renewals), you will pay a separate acceptance fee to the facility where you submit your application. This fee compensates the acceptance facility, such as a Post Office or court clerk, for their services in reviewing your application and sending it to the State Department.
- Expedited Service Fee: For those who need their passports faster than routine processing times, the State Department offers expedited service for an additional fee. This significantly reduces processing time but comes at a higher cost.
- Passport Photo Fee: You need to submit a passport photo with your application. While you can get these photos taken at many acceptance facilities for a fee, you can also save money by taking your own photo, ensuring it meets the strict requirements set by the State Department.
Current Passport Fee Chart
To give you a clearer picture, here’s a breakdown of the current passport fees. Please note that these fees are subject to change, so it’s always best to verify the most up-to-date information on the U.S. Department of State website before applying.
| Passport Type | Application Processing Fee | Acceptance Fee | Total Routine Cost | Total Expedited Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Adult Passport Book | $130 | $35 | $165 | $225 |
| Adult Passport Card | $30 | $35 | $65 | $125 |
| Minor Passport Book | $100 | $35 | $135 | $195 |
| Minor Passport Card | $15 | $35 | $50 | $110 |
These fees are for guidance and may change. Always check the official U.S. Department of State website for the most current fee schedule.
Breaking Down Passport Costs: Application and Acceptance
As mentioned earlier, the fees are divided into application processing and acceptance. Let’s delve deeper into each of these.
Application Processing Fees (Department of State)
These fees are sent directly to the U.S. Department of State with your application package. The processing fee covers the examination of your application, background checks, printing of the passport, and secure delivery of your new passport. You can pay these fees via:
- Check or money order payable to “U.S. Department of State”
- Credit card or debit card if applying online for renewals (eligibility criteria apply)
Acceptance Fees (Passport Acceptance Facilities)
Acceptance facilities, like USPS Post Offices, certain clerk of court offices, and other designated locations, charge a separate acceptance fee. This is for their service in verifying your identity and citizenship documents, witnessing your signature, and securely sending your application to the State Department. Payment methods for acceptance fees vary by location but often include:
- Money order payable to “Postmaster” (if applying at USPS)
- Check payable to “Postmaster” (if applying at USPS)
- Credit card
- Debit card
Additional Costs to Consider
Beyond the standard application and acceptance fees, be aware of potential extra costs:
- Passport Photos: If you opt to have your passport photos taken at an acceptance facility, there’s usually a photo fee. This can range around $15-$20.
- Expedited Service: Adding expedited service to your application will incur an additional $60 fee, plus any costs for overnight shipping if you choose to expedite the return delivery of your new passport.
- Overnight Shipping: For faster return delivery of your passport, you can pay for 1-2 day delivery service.
Ways to Pay for Your Passport Fees
Understanding how you can pay for these fees is just as important as knowing the amounts. Payment methods differ for acceptance and processing fees.
Payment Methods at Acceptance Facilities
When paying in person at a passport acceptance facility, such as a participating Post Office, you typically have several payment options for the acceptance fee and photo fees (if applicable):
- Credit cards (Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Discover)
- Debit cards
- Checks (payable to “Postmaster” at USPS)
- Money orders (payable to “Postmaster” at USPS)
- Cash may be accepted at some locations, but it’s best to confirm beforehand.
Payment Methods for the Department of State
Fees payable directly to the Department of State, mainly the application processing fee and expedited service fee, have specific payment methods:
- Checks (personal, certified, cashier’s, or traveler’s) payable to “U.S. Department of State”
- Money orders (U.S. postal, international, or bank) payable to “U.S. Department of State”
- Credit or debit card online (for eligible online renewals only)
Tips to Save on Passport Costs
While passport fees are unavoidable, there are ways to be cost-conscious:
Plan Ahead to Avoid Expedited Fees
The most significant way to save is to apply well in advance of your travel dates. Routine passport processing times can fluctuate, but applying several months ahead can help you avoid the need for costly expedited service.
Take Your Own Passport Photo
Passport photos must adhere to strict guidelines, but taking your own photo can save you money. Numerous apps and online services can help you take and format compliant photos at a lower cost than professional photo services or acceptance facilities. Just ensure you carefully follow all State Department photo requirements regarding size, background, expression, and photo quality.
By understanding the breakdown of passport costs and planning ahead, you can navigate the application process without unexpected financial burdens and ensure you’re ready for your international adventures. Remember to always check the official U.S. Department of State website for the most current fee information and application guidelines.
