Applying for a U.S. passport for the first time, renewing one, or opting for faster processing can come with varying costs. The U.S. Department of State has released its updated fee schedule for October 2026.
For an adult applying for a passport book for the first time, the basic fee is $165: $130 for the application and an additional $35 for the acceptance fee at the location where documents are submitted.
In contrast, eligible adults renewing a passport typically pay $130 for the book and do not incur the $35 acceptance fee again.
Costs can increase if expedited processing is required, if a passport card is also requested, or under special circumstances.
Initial Passport Application Costs
According to the Department of State's updated fee schedule for October 2026, applicants aged 16 and older filing with the DS-11 form need to pay two separate fees.
Passport book: $130 for the application plus $35 for acceptance, totaling $165.
Passport card: $30 for the application plus $35 for acceptance, totaling $65.
Both book and card: $160 for the application plus $35 for acceptance, totaling $195.
The application fee is payable to the Department of State, while the $35 acceptance fee goes to the authorized office that receives and verifies the documentation. These offices can be found in select post offices, libraries, and local government agencies.
Renewing a Passport: A Cost-Saving Option
Adults eligible to renew using the DS-82 form avoid the $35 acceptance fee. Renewing a passport book costs $130. Renewing just a card costs $30, while applying for both together costs $160.
Eligible applicants may renew by mail and, in some cases, through the Department of State's online renewal system. Online renewal requires additional qualifications; applicants must be at least 25 years old, located in a U.S. state or territory, and not planning to travel within at least six weeks of application. Online renewal is only available with routine service and does not allow for expedited processing.
Cost of Children's Passports
For children under 16, fees differ and applications must be submitted in person.
Passport book: $100 plus $35 for acceptance, totaling $135.
Passport card: $15 plus $35 for acceptance, totaling $50.
Both book and card: $115 plus $35 for acceptance, totaling $150.
Unlike adults, children's passports are not renewed in the same manner. Once expired, a new application is required.
Expedited Service and Additional Costs
Applicants needing faster processing can pay an additional $60 per application for expedited service. The Department of State currently estimates routine processing takes about four to six weeks, while expedited service takes approximately two to three weeks. These estimates do not include mailing time.
Applicants are cautioned that it can take up to two weeks for a submission to reach the processing center and another two weeks for the new passport to be delivered once issued. Current processing times can be checked on the Department of State's official website.
Additional Fees for Special Circumstances
A first-time expedited passport can exceed $250. For example, an adult applying for a passport book pays $130 for the application and $35 for acceptance. Adding the $60 expedited service fee brings the total to $225. If the applicant opts for one-to-three-day delivery, an additional $26.87 is charged, raising the total to $251.87. This does not include any extra costs for sending the application to the Department of State using Priority Mail Express or another fast service, which varies by location.
The Department of State allows payment of $26.87 for delivery of a passport book within one to three days of issuance. This service is available only for U.S. delivery addresses and not for passport cards. It's crucial not to confuse this with expedited processing; the $60 fee shortens processing time, while the $26.87 fee expedites return delivery once the passport is issued.
Passport Card Limitations
A passport card, while cheaper than a book, is not valid for international air travel. Thus, a U.S. citizen flying between the United States and Cuba must have a valid passport book. The card is primarily for specific land and sea entries from Canada, Mexico, Bermuda, and the Caribbean.
This is particularly relevant for the Cuban-American community. CiberCuba recently highlighted that the Department of State reminded U.S. citizens with dual nationality that they must enter and exit the United States using a valid U.S. passport. This requirement also applies to minors who are U.S. citizens, even if they hold citizenship from Cuba, Spain, or another country.
Uncommon Fees and Additional Considerations
The official fee schedule includes a $150 charge for record searches. This may apply if an applicant cannot provide proof of U.S. citizenship and needs the Department of State to locate records of a previously issued U.S. passport or a Consular Report of Birth Abroad. This fee is not common but can significantly increase costs in certain situations.
The official fees also do not cover the cost of a passport photo. Those using a business, pharmacy, photo studio, or similar service will need to pay whatever the establishment charges. Individuals renewing online must upload a digital photo that meets official requirements.
Beware of Private Online Renewal Services
The Department of State warns against private websites posing as services for renewing U.S. passports online. The only authorized portal for official online renewals belongs to the U.S. government and uses the .gov domain. Private companies may charge additional fees for forms or services that do not replace the official submission process. Such services could also jeopardize sensitive personal information.
Travel Emergencies and Passport Needs
Paying $60 for expedited service differs from requesting urgent processing due to imminent international travel. Those planning to travel abroad within 14 days may try to secure an appointment at a passport agency or center, provided they can prove their travel plans.
In life-or-death situations involving an immediate family member, specific procedures exist for those needing to travel even sooner. Therefore, verifying both passport validity and the total time required for a new one is wise before booking a flight.
Common cost scenarios:
Adult, first-time book: $165.
Adult, book renewal: $130.
Child under 16, book: $135.
Adult, first-time book with expedited service: $225.
Adult, first-time book with expedited service and 1-3 day delivery: $251.87.
Adult, expedited renewal by mail: $190.
Adult, expedited renewal by mail with 1-3 day delivery: $216.87.
These prices reflect the official fees published by the Department of State for October 2026 and may increase if the applicant uses additional mailing, photography, or private assistance services.
Frequently Asked Questions about U.S. Passport Costs
How much does it cost to expedite a U.S. passport?
Expediting a U.S. passport costs an additional $60 per application.
Can I renew my U.S. passport online?
Yes, eligible applicants can renew their U.S. passport online through the official U.S. government portal, provided they meet specific requirements.
What is the cost of a passport photo?
The cost of a passport photo varies depending on where you obtain it, such as a pharmacy or photo studio.
Are there additional fees for passport cards?
Yes, passport cards have separate application and acceptance fees, which are generally lower than those for passport books.