How Much Does a Passport Cost?
A clear breakdown of passport fees — application, execution, photo, and optional expedite costs — so there are no surprises.
Passport pricing is just a few stacked fees. Here's what you're actually paying for.
The fee breakdown
- Application fee — the main government charge for the booklet.
- Execution / acceptance fee — paid when a first-time application is processed in person.
- Photo — a few dollars if you don't take your own.
- Expedite fee (optional) — to speed up processing.
- Faster shipping (optional) — for quicker delivery.
Ways to spend less
- Take your own compliant photo at home.
- Skip expedite if you apply early enough.
- Renew by mail when eligible to avoid the in-person fee.
Frequently asked questions
How much does a US passport cost in 2026?
For an adult, the passport book application fee is $130, plus a $35 execution fee when you apply in person for the first time. That puts a first adult book at about $165 before any extras. Children under 16 pay a $100 application fee plus the same $35 execution fee.
Is a passport card cheaper than a passport book?
Yes. The adult passport card application fee is $30 instead of $130, though a first-time applicant applying in person still pays the same $35 execution fee on top. The card only works for land and sea travel to Canada, Mexico, Bermuda, and the Caribbean. It is not valid for international air travel, so most travelers still need the book.
How much does it cost to expedite a passport?
Expedited processing adds $60 on top of the normal fees, and faster return shipping costs roughly $22 more. They speed things up but are separate, optional charges.
Can I avoid the in-person execution fee?
Yes, if you qualify to renew. Renewals by mail or online use a different form and skip the $35 execution fee. That fee only applies to first-time applicants who have to apply in person.
Keep reading
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