How Much Does It Cost To Get A Passport Renewal?
How much does it cost to get a passport renewal?
Planning to travel abroad but your passport is close to its expiration date? The cost of a passport renewal can vary based on several factors such as the service you choose and additional fees for expedited processes. In this article, we will break down the expenses associated with renewing your passport so you are well-prepared for your next international adventure.
Standard Passport Renewal Fees
When considering how much does it cost to get a passport renewal, the baseline fee is $130 for adults and $100 for minors (under the age of 16). This price includes the application and processing fees for the standard passport book, which is used for international travel by air, sea, or land. This does not cover additional services such as expedited processing or additional passport cards.
Expedited Passport Services
Sometimes, last-minute travel plans pop up, and you need your passport in a hurry. In such cases, you can opt for expedited services that will get your new passport to you more quickly. The additional cost for expedited processing is $60 on top of the standard fees. Therefore, the overall total would amount to $190 for adults and $160 for minors. This service generally reduces the processing time from 4-6 weeks to 2-3 weeks.
Optional Passport Card
If you frequently travel by land or sea to neighboring countries such as Canada, Mexico, Bermuda, or the Caribbean, you might consider adding a passport card to your renewal. The cost for a passport card when bundled with a passport book renewal is $30 for adults and $15 for minors. Note that a passport card alone cannot be used for international air travel. Including this option, the total cost for passport renewal plus the card would be $160 for adults and $115 for minors without expedited services.
Step-by-Step Guide to Passport Renewal
- Complete the Form: Fill out Form DS-82 if you are eligible for mail-in renewal. The form is available for download on the official State Department website.
- Collect Necessary Documents: Include your current passport, a new passport photo, and any additional supporting documents required.
- Pay the Fee: Make the payment corresponding to the services you opt for – standard, expedited, or with a passport card.
- Mail the Application: Send your completed application and documents to the designated address specified on the form.
- Track Your Application: Utilize the tracking feature available on the State Department website to monitor the status of your passport renewal.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Q: Can I renew my passport online?
A: As of now, the US does not offer online passport renewal services. You must apply by mail or in person.
- Q: Can my passport renewal be expedited again if it’s already in process?
A: Yes, but you will need to contact the National Passport Information Center and potentially pay additional fees.
- Q: What if my passport is significantly damaged?
A: If your passport is damaged, you will need to apply in person rather than by mail, and you may face additional fees.
Tags: passport renewal, travel documentation, expedited passport, passport card, renewing passport
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