How Much Does an Adult American Passport Cost?
In today’s globalized world, having a valid passport is essential for adults who wish to travel abroad. Whether it’s for business, leisure, or studying, the cost of obtaining an adult American passport is a crucial factor to consider. This article aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the expenses associated with obtaining an adult American passport, including the application fee, processing time, and additional costs that may arise.
Application Fee
The first and most obvious cost associated with obtaining an adult American passport is the application fee. As of 2023, the fee for a first-time adult passport application is $140. This fee is subject to change, so it’s important to check the U.S. Department of State’s official website for the most up-to-date information. The application fee covers the cost of processing the application and issuing the passport.
Passport Book vs. Passport Card
When applying for an adult American passport, applicants have the option to choose between a passport book and a passport card. The passport book is the traditional document that includes pages for visas and other travel documents. The cost of a passport book is the same as the application fee mentioned earlier, $140.
On the other hand, a passport card is a smaller, wallet-sized document that is valid for land and sea travel between the United States, Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Bermuda. The cost of a passport card is $55, which is significantly less than the passport book. However, it’s important to note that a passport card is not valid for international air travel.
Passport Renewal
If an adult American passport has expired or is about to expire, applicants can renew their passport by mail. The renewal fee is $110 for a passport book and $30 for a passport card. These fees are lower than the application fees because the U.S. Department of State can use the existing information and photo from the expired passport.
Processing Time and Additional Costs
The processing time for an adult American passport varies depending on the method of application and the expedited service chosen. Standard processing takes approximately 6-8 weeks, while expedited processing can be completed in 2-3 weeks for an additional fee of $60. If an applicant needs a passport in less than 2 weeks, they can choose the expedited service for an additional fee of $150.
Additional costs may arise if an applicant needs to replace a lost or stolen passport. The replacement fee for a lost or stolen passport is $145 for a passport book and $110 for a passport card. Additionally, if the applicant needs to submit a new photo, there may be a cost associated with obtaining a professional passport photo.
In conclusion, the cost of an adult American passport ranges from $55 for a passport card to $140 for a passport book. The application fee, processing time, and additional costs should be considered when planning for international travel. It’s always a good idea to check the U.S. Department of State’s official website for the most current information and to ensure a smooth passport application process.
