Current Costs of U.S. Passports: Book, Card, Renewal, and Expedited Fees

The cost of obtaining or renewing a U.S. passport varies based on the form (book or card), whether you are applying for the first time or renewing, and whether you request expedited service. This guide breaks down all current fees and how they apply in common scenarios, helping applicants plan ahead and budget accurately.

What Counts As The Current Passport Fees

Several core fees determine the total cost of a U.S. passport. The key components are the passport book fee, the passport card fee, and an optional execution fee for first-time applicants. When applying for both the book and card at the same time, these amounts are combined, and the execution fee may apply if you must appear in person. Expedited processing adds a separate fee to speed up handling, and processing times vary by service level.

Passport Book And Passport Card Fees

The standard, non-expedited fees as of now are:

• Passport Book: $130 for new applications and $130 for renewals.
• Passport Card: $30 for new applications and $30 for renewals.
• Combined Cost (Book + Card) for First-Time Applicants: $160 for both, plus the execution fee of $35 if an in-person visit is required.

For first-time applicants who apply in person (Form DS-11), the total would typically be $195 when choosing both the book and the card ($160 for the two products plus $35 execution fee). If only the book is requested, the total remains $165 for an in-person first-time application. For renewals by mail (Form DS-82), the book is $130 and the card is $30 if desired, totaling $160 for both renewals without execution or expedited fees.

First-Time Applicants Versus Renewals

First-time adults and minors have slightly different requirements. All first-time adult and minor applicants applying in person must pay the execution fee and complete Form DS-11, which adds to the total cost. Renewals submitted by mail (DS-82) do not incur the execution fee. For those renewing only a passport book, the cost is $130; for renewal of the passport card, it is $30. Combining book and card renewals yields $160.

Expedited Service And Processing Times

Applicants can choose expedited processing to shorten the time to passport delivery. The expedited processing fee is an additional $60 on top of the base fees. Processing times vary, but expedited service typically delivers within a few weeks rather than the standard several weeks. Some applicants may also select faster mailing options where available, which may involve additional non-refunded costs.

It is important to note that routine processing times can fluctuate based on demand and the season. For critical travel needs, expediting is the most reliable way to reduce wait times. Applicants should plan for potential delays and verify current timelines before submitting forms.

Special Scenarios: Minors, Lost Or Damaged Passports

Minors have the same base fees as adults for the passport book, card, or both, but the process includes parental consent and additional documentation. If a passport is lost, stolen, or damaged, a replacement may incur the standard fees for the chosen product, plus any applicable expedite charges if fast processing is required. For damaged or worn passports, renewal is generally straightforward and follows the standard renewal fees, while a replacement under certain circumstances can vary by policy.

Practical Examples

• First-time adult applying for both book and card in person: $195 total (book $130 + card $30 + execution $35).
• Renewal for book only by mail: $130 total, no execution fee and no mandated in-person visit.
• Renewal for both book and card online: $160 total (no execution fee, standard processing).
• Expedited service for a new passport book (in person): $130 book + $60 expedite = $190, plus the $35 execution if applicable.

Tips To Save Time And Stay Informed

Always verify the latest fee schedule on the official government site before applying, as fee amounts can change. Gather required documents in advance to prevent delays at the application center. If speed is essential, factor in the $60 expedited processing fee and any available delivery options. For renewal, consider mail-in options to avoid the in-person execution fee unless required.

In summary, the current cost to obtain a U.S. passport varies by product (book, card, or both), whether it is a renewal or first-time application, and whether expedited service is chosen. By understanding these components, applicants can estimate total costs accurately and select the fastest, most economical route for their travel needs.