If you plan on getting your passport this year, be sure to get it before April 2nd to save some cash!
Passport Pixabay Public Domain
The U.S Department of State has released information that there will now be a $10 increase in the total ‘execution fee’ cost for passports, raising it from $25 to $35. This change will take place April 2, 2018, the purpose of the raise to help to offset the cost of 'providing the consular service'. The overall behind the scenes cost of this service has increased over the past few years, causing this rise today.
The execution fee is only charged to people who apply in person at an official agency, such as the U.S Post Office. If you renew by mail, this will not affect your total cost.
The fee change will make the total cost of a U.S. passport $145 for adults and $115 for 16 and younger.
Of course, this is also a great time to get your passport due to the confusion over U.S drivers’ licenses versus real ID to board a domestic flight. You can read more about that issue here.
Here's the official statement:
U.S. DEPARTMENT OF STATE — BUREAU OF CONSULAR AFFAIRS
Travel.State.Gov U.S. DEPARTMENT OF STATE — BUREAU OF CONSULAR AFFAIRS
Effective April 2, 2018, the passport execution fee will increase from $25 to $35. The $10 execution fee increase only applies to U.S. passport applicants using the DS-11 form, such as first-time applicants over 16, children under 16, and applicants who re-apply after reporting their previous passport lost or stolen.
