US passport fees depend on whether you are applying for the first time or renewing, and whether you want a passport book, a passport card, or both.
For a first-time adult passport book, the cost is 165 US dollars, which includes a 130 US dollar application fee and a 35 US dollar execution fee paid in person. An eligible adult renewal by mail or online is 130 US dollars, because the execution fee does not apply.
A passport card is cheaper than a book. A first-time adult card is 65 US dollars, and a child passport book is 135 US dollars. Optional services add to the total, including expedited processing for about 60 US dollars and faster return delivery for a small additional fee.
Some fees must be paid by check or money order, so it is worth confirming accepted payment methods before you apply.
Processing time depends on the service level you choose and the time of year.
Routine service usually takes about 4 to 6 weeks. Expedited service, for an added fee, usually takes about 2 to 3 weeks. These times do not include mailing, which can add time on each end.
Demand rises during busy travel seasons, which can extend waits. Because timelines change, always check the current processing times on the official State Department website, travel.state.gov, before you plan travel.
If you need to travel very soon, there are appointment-based options at passport agencies for urgent cases, though availability is limited. Planning well ahead of any trip is the safest approach.
A passport connects to broader questions of identity and travel, so a little coordination helps.
Your travel documents relate to your legal status. Make sure the name on your application matches your other official records exactly.
If you are heading to a specific destination, requirements can differ by how you travel. For a common example, see do you need a passport to travel to Mexico, and if your trip is timed around a celebration, read Mexico Independence Day 2026.
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A first-time adult passport book is 165 US dollars in government fees, which includes a 130 US dollar application fee and a 35 US dollar execution fee. An eligible adult renewal is 130 US dollars. A passport card and child passports cost less. Optional expedited service adds about 60 US dollars, plus any faster delivery fee.
Routine processing usually takes about 4 to 6 weeks, and expedited service takes about 2 to 3 weeks, not including mailing time. Processing can take longer during busy travel seasons. Check current times on the official State Department website before booking travel, and apply well in advance when you can.
A passport book is valid for international travel by air, land, and sea. A passport card is cheaper but is not valid for international air travel; it is intended for land and sea travel between the US and countries such as Mexico, Canada, and parts of the Caribbean. Many travelers choose the book for flexibility.
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