Do you want to travel to some other country or you are going for an international conference? Your passport makes the world your playground and helps you build memorable experiences. Yet, it might be helpful to know how much it would be to get or renew a passport in 2025 to prevent and prepare for such astonishments. Here is everything you need to know about passport cost in 2025: application fee, rush service, and how to save.
Understanding the Basics: What Is a Passport?
A passport is an official recognition document that bears official acknowledgment of citizenship by travel departments of countries in the world. It is essential for cross-border racing to go by road, water, or air. The United States provides two main types of passports:
Passport Book
They can be used for any trip. A passport book is accepted everywhere, whether flying internationally, cruising, or crossing borders by land. It’s the most versatile and widely recognized form of travel identification.
Unlike the passport card, a passport book allows air travel to and from any country. If you travel often or plan to visit multiple countries, a passport book is the best choice.
Passport Card
This is for use at the land border with Canada and Mexico, maritime ports of entry in Bermuda, and the Caribbean region. It’s a more compact and convenient alternative to the whole passport book for those traveling primarily by land or sea.
The passport card is easier to carry and can be kept in your wallet. However, it cannot be used for international air travel, making it more limited in scope compared to the passport book.
Types of Passports: Which One Do You Need?
Choosing the correct passport based on your travel needs:
First Time Passports
This is for the first issuance for all applicants 16 years and above and folds applicants below 16 years.
Renewal Passport
Renewal Passport can be applied for by those who lost their passport or whose current one is expiring but the previous one was issued for the last 15 years.
Lost or Stolen Passports
A new application must be made and filled out if the passport is lost, damaged, or stolen.
Expedited Passports
Expedited Passports are very appealing to individuals who travel on short notice because they will receive their passports much sooner than if they applied for a regular visa.
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Breakdown of Passport Fees: What You Need to Know
The cost of obtaining a passport in 2025 varies according to the kind of passport and processing time. This is a detailed breakdown:
| Passport Type | Standard (8 weeks) | Expedited (46 weeks) | Acceptance Agent Fee | Total Cost |
| Passport Book | $130 | $190 | $35 | $165 or $225 |
| Passport Card | $30 | $35 | $65 | |
| Both the Book and Card | $160 | $220 | $35 | $195 or $255 |
Passport Fees for Minors (under 16)
| Passport Type | Standard (8 weeks) | Expedited (46 weeks) | Acceptance Agent Fee | Total Cost |
| Passport Book | $100 | $160 | $35 | $135 or $195 |
| Passport Card | $15 | $35 | $50 |
Additional Costs: Hidden Fees and Expenses
While the fees listed above cover the application and processing, additional expenses may occur:
Expedited Processing Fee
An extra $60 shortens processing time to 46 weeks. This is ideal for travelers with upcoming trips who can’t wait the standard 8–11 weeks. This fee is in addition to the regular passport application charges.
Overnight Delivery Fee
$19.53 for quick Delivery of finished passports. This ensures your passport arrives faster once it’s been printed. Recommended for those with tight travel timelines or last-minute plans.
Acceptance Agent cost
A $35 fee is required for new and minor passport applications.
Photo Costs: Passport photos range from $10 -$15 based on the dealership.
How to Save Money on Your Passport Application
Here are some ideas for saving on your passport:
Apply Early
To avoid expedited fees, apply well before your travel dates. Standard processing can take 8–11 weeks, so plan accordingly. Early application also gives you time to correct errors or provide additional documents. It’s the most cost-effective and stress-free way to get your passport on time.
Use USPS Services
Many post offices provide competitive rates for passport photo and application services. You can schedule an appointment online for convenience and shorter wait times. USPS also offers tracking services to monitor your application’s status. Using USPS ensures your documents are handled securely and sent to the correct processing center.
Check for Fee Waivers:
Some NGOs and community-based organizations sometimes provide services such as passport costs for low-income applicants. It’s worth contacting local nonprofits or legal aid groups to see if you’re eligible for assistance.
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Passport Renewal Costs: What to Expect
Renewing a passport is usually cheaper than applying for a new one. The renewal fees are as follows:
Renewal Book
$130 (regular); $190 (expedited). This is ideal if you only need the passport book for international travel. If your current passport meets the eligibility criteria, it can be renewed by mail. Expedited service is recommended if you are traveling within the next 6–8 weeks.
Renewal Book and Card
$160 (regular); $220 (expedited). This option is best for travelers who frequently cross land or sea borders. It provides maximum flexibility for both air and land/maritime travel. Renewing both together saves time and money compared to separate applications.
Expedited Services: Is It Worth the Extra Cost?
This is a significant boost for anyone who has to travel fast with little or no regard for the cost of services rendered. For an additional $60, the current short processing period of 8 weeks can be reduced to 46 weeks. If you need your passport even sooner, consider the following:
12-Day Delivery
It costs $19.53 and guarantees prompt Delivery. It is ideal for applicants who need their passports quickly but don’t require overnight shipping. This service applies after your passport is processed and ready to ship.
Private Expediting Services
Passports and Visas.com provide accelerated services, with passports often delivered within three days. These services are speedier but much more expensive.
Financial Assistance and Resources for Low-Income Applicants
If the expense of obtaining a passport is a barrier, there are financial assistance options available:
NonProfit Assistance
Specific organizations provide grants or subsidies for passport expenses. These are often targeted toward students, low-income families, or first-time applicants. Contact local nonprofits, community centers, or travel organizations for options.
Local Government Programs
Ask your state or local government about help programs. Some regions offer travel document assistance as part of broader social services. Eligibility may depend on income level, age, or specific travel needs.
Beem Financial Assistance
Beem is the #1 Smart Wallet App that can help you manage your finances better. It provides flexible financing options to help cover unforeseen expenses such as passport fees. With Beem’s Budget Planner, The Better FinancialFeed ™, users stay within their means by forecasting future spending, organizing financial information, and creating thorough budgets.
Tips for Budgeting for Your Passport
To be prepared, follow these budgeting tips:
Plan Ahead
Begin saving months before applying.
Bundle Services
Save money by applying for a passport book and card at once.
Set Aside Extras
Allow for unexpected expenses such as photographs and delivery fees.
Conclusion: Making Your Passport Affordable
Getting a passport is mandatory when traveling to another country, but this service doesn’t have to be expensive. Learn the fees, make prior preparations, and check on what funding like Beem can do to make the process less costly and taxing. Be it a vacation of a lifetime or business, traveling with a passport is the first step toward the next travel destination.
FAQs: How Much Does a Passport Cost in 2025
What is the cost of obtaining a passport in 2025?
A new adult passport book costs 165, and a passport card costs 65. Expedited services and more options may increase the cost.
Are there any discounts available for passport applications?
Discounts are rarely available; nonprofits and local organizations provide financial aid.
How long does it take to get a passport?
It usually takes eight weeks to process, while express takes six weeks.
Can I get financial assistance with my passport application?
Programs such as Beem and other nonprofits provide financial aid with passport expenses.
What are the additional costs for expedited passport services?
Standard and ordinary passports are believed to have a validity of ten years for this w, while not only having a validity of 5 years.
