How Much Does an Expedited Passport Cost?
Comparing the Fees for Different Types of Expedited Passport Services
When applying for an expedited passport, there are several options to choose from depending on how quickly you need your passport. The following are the different types of expedited passport services and their associated fees:
Expedited Service at an Acceptance Facility: This option costs $60 in addition to the regular application fee of $110. This service is available only if you apply in person at a regional passport agency or an acceptance facility.
Expedited Processing by Mail: This option costs $60 in addition to the regular application fee of $110. You can use this service only if you live in the United States and need your passport within 4-6 weeks.
1-2 Day Delivery Service: This option costs $17.56 in addition to the expedited processing fee of $60 and the regular application fee of $110. This service is available only if you apply in person at a regional passport agency and need your passport within 1-2 business days.
File Search and Verification: This option costs $150 in addition to the regular application fee of $110. This service is available only if you have applied for a passport and need it quickly but have not received it yet.
It’s important to note that these fees are in addition to any required documentation fees, such as fees for photos, copies, or notarizations. Additionally, expedited passport services are available only for certain situations, such as travel for a family emergency or business trip.
Factors That Affect the Total Cost of an Expedited Passport
The total cost of an expedited passport can vary depending on several factors. Here are some of the main factors that can affect the cost:
Type of Passport: The type of passport you need can affect the total cost. A standard adult passport book costs $110, while a child passport book costs $80. If you need a passport card in addition to your book, that will cost an extra $30.
Expedited Processing Fee: Expedited processing costs an additional $60, regardless of the type of passport you need.
Delivery Service: If you need your passport quickly, you may need to pay for overnight or 2-day delivery service. These fees range from $16.48 to $26.39 depending on the service and location.
Acceptance Facility Fee: If you need to apply in person at an acceptance facility, there may be an additional facility fee of up to $35.
Other Fees: Depending on your situation, there may be other fees to consider, such as fees for photos, copies, or notarizations.
It’s important to factor in all of these costs when budgeting for your expedited passport application. Keep in mind that fees are subject to change, so be sure to check the most up-to-date fee schedule on the U.S. Department of State’s website.
Tips for Saving Money on Your Expedited Passport Application
Getting an expedited passport can be expensive, but there are ways to save money on your application. Here are some tips:
Plan Ahead: The best way to save money on an expedited passport is to plan ahead and avoid needing expedited processing altogether. Standard processing takes 4-6 weeks, so be sure to apply early enough to avoid rush fees.
Apply Online: Applying for your passport online can save you money on both the application fee and the acceptance facility fee.
Avoid Extra Services: Only pay for the services you need. For example, if you don’t need a passport card, don’t pay for one.
Use Your Own Photos: You can take your own passport photos as long as they meet the requirements. This can save you money on photo fees.
Compare Delivery Services: Shop around for the best delivery service rates. Depending on your location, some delivery services may be cheaper than others.
By following these tips, you can save money on your expedited passport application and still get your passport quickly when you need it.
When is it Worth Paying for an Expedited Passport?
Deciding whether to pay for an expedited passport depends on your travel plans and timeline. Here are some situations when it may be worth paying for expedited processing:
Emergency Travel: If you need to travel urgently for a family emergency or business trip, expedited processing may be necessary.
Expired Passport: If your passport has expired and you need to travel within a few weeks, expedited processing may be the only option.
Last-Minute Travel: If you decide to take a trip at the last minute and don’t have a passport, expedited processing can help you get your passport quickly.
International Adoption: If you are adopting a child from another country and need to travel quickly, expedited processing may be necessary.
Study Abroad: If you are studying abroad and need a passport quickly, expedited processing may be necessary.
It’s important to remember that expedited processing can be expensive, so it’s best to avoid it if possible. If you have more than 4-6 weeks before your trip, consider standard processing instead. However, if you need your passport quickly, expedited processing may be the best option.
Understanding the Cost Breakdown of an Expedited Passport
The cost of an expedited passport can be broken down into several components. Here is a breakdown of the costs:
Application Fee: The application fee is the same for both regular and expedited processing. For an adult passport book, the fee is $110. For a child passport book, the fee is $80.
Expedited Processing Fee: This fee is an additional $60 per application, regardless of the type of passport you need.
Delivery Service Fee: If you need your passport delivered quickly, there may be an additional fee. The fee ranges from $16.48 to $26.39 depending on the service and location.
Acceptance Facility Fee: If you need to apply in person at an acceptance facility, there may be an additional fee of up to $35.
Other Fees: Depending on your situation, there may be other fees to consider, such as fees for photos, copies, or notarizations.
It’s important to factor in all of these costs when budgeting for your expedited passport application. Keep in mind that fees are subject to change, so be sure to check the most up-to-date fee schedule on the U.S. Department of State’s website. Additionally, some fees may be waived or reduced for certain groups, such as military personnel or those with financial hardship.
