What To Know
- The passport card fee varies depending on the applicant’s age and whether they are applying for a new passport card or a renewal.
- A passport book is valid for 10 years (compared to 5 years for a passport card) and costs only $10 more for adults and $5 more for children.
- If you need both a passport book and a passport card, you can apply for them simultaneously, saving on the execution fee.
Planning an international adventure? A passport card is an essential travel companion, offering convenience and affordability for short trips to Mexico, Canada, Bermuda, and the Caribbean. But before you embark on your journey, it’s crucial to understand the associated costs, including the passport card fee. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the ins and outs of passport card pricing, ensuring you’re well-informed before applying.
Passport Card Fees: A Breakdown
The passport card fee varies depending on the applicant’s age and whether they are applying for a new passport card or a renewal. Here’s a detailed breakdown:
New Passport Card Fee
- Adults (16 years and older): $65
- Children (under 16 years): $50
Renewal Passport Card Fee
- Adults (16 years and older): $60
- Children (under 16 years): $40
Additional Fees to Consider
In addition to the passport card fee, there are a few other expenses you may encounter:
- Execution Fee: $35, payable at the time of application to a passport acceptance facility.
- Shipping Fee: Varies depending on the shipping method selected.
- Expedited Processing Fee: $60, for expedited processing of your passport card application.
Payment Options
The passport card fee and additional fees can be paid using:
- Check or money order
- Credit card (Visa, MasterCard, American Express, Discover)
- Debit card (with a Visa or MasterCard logo)
How to Save on Passport Card Fees
While passport card fees are non-refundable, there are a few ways to save:
- Apply for a passport book instead: A passport book is valid for 10 years (compared to 5 years for a passport card) and costs only $10 more for adults and $5 more for children.
- Combine your application with a passport book: If you need both a passport book and a passport card, you can apply for them simultaneously, saving on the execution fee.
- Consider a passport agency: Passport agencies offer expedited processing, but they typically charge a higher fee.
Answers to Your Questions
1. How long does it take to get a passport card?
- Standard processing takes 8-11 weeks.
- Expedited processing takes 5-7 weeks.
2. Can I use a passport card for international travel outside of the US?
- No, a passport card is only valid for land and sea travel to Mexico, Canada, Bermuda, and the Caribbean.
3. Can I apply for a passport card online?
- No, you must apply in person at a passport acceptance facility.
4. What is the difference between a passport book and a passport card?
- A passport book is valid for 10 years and can be used for air and land travel worldwide. A passport card is valid for 5 years and is only valid for land and sea travel to specific destinations.
5. Can I renew my passport card online?
- Yes, you can renew your passport card online if you are renewing an adult passport card that is less than 15 years old.
