Obtaining a passport is essential for anyone planning to travel internationally, whether for business, leisure, or education. If you live in Delaware and are wondering, “How much is a passport in Delaware?” this article will provide you with a detailed, step-by-step guide covering all the fees, payment options, and additional costs you should expect. Understanding the cost structure is important to avoid surprises and to plan your travel documents budget efficiently.
What Is a U.S. Passport and Why Is It Important?
A U.S. passport is an official travel document issued by the U.S. Department of State that certifies your identity and citizenship. It allows you to travel internationally and return to the United States. Passports also serve as an identification document in many situations domestically.
Who Can Apply for a Passport in Delaware?
Any U.S. citizen residing in Delaware, regardless of age, can apply for a passport. Applicants include first-time applicants, minors, adults renewing their passports, and those applying for a passport card or expedited services. Delawareans have access to multiple passport acceptance facilities throughout the state.
Types of U.S. Passports Available
Before diving into the costs, it’s essential to know the types of passports you can apply for in Delaware:
- Passport Book: The traditional passport allowing international travel by air, sea, and land.
- Passport Card: A wallet-sized card valid for land and sea travel between the U.S., Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Bermuda, but not valid for international air travel.
- Expedited Passports: For urgent travel needs, processed faster for an additional fee.
Where to Apply for a Passport in Delaware
Delaware residents can apply for passports at designated passport acceptance facilities, including post offices, libraries, and government offices. Some locations also offer expedited processing services. For renewals, most applicants can mail their applications directly to the State Department.
Base Passport Fees in Delaware
Passport fees are federally set and apply uniformly in Delaware as in other U.S. states. The cost depends on the type of passport, age of the applicant, and whether it is a first-time application or renewal.
Passport Book Fees
| Applicant Type | Application Type | Fee |
|---|---|---|
| Adult (16 and older) | First-time or renewal | $130 |
| Minor (under 16) | First-time | $100 |
Passport Card Fees
| Applicant Type | Application Type | Fee |
|---|---|---|
| Adult (16 and older) | First-time or renewal | $30 |
| Minor (under 16) | First-time | $15 |
Fees for Both Passport Book and Card
| Applicant Type | Application Type | Fee |
|---|---|---|
| Adult (16 and older) | First-time | $160 (book + card) |
| Minor (under 16) | First-time | $115 (book + card) |
Additional Fees to Consider
Execution (Acceptance) Fee
In Delaware, first-time applicants or those who need to apply in person at an acceptance facility must pay an additional execution fee of $35. This fee covers the cost of accepting and forwarding your application to the U.S. Department of State.
Expedited Service Fee
If you need your passport faster than the standard processing time (typically 8-11 weeks), you can pay an additional $60 for expedited service, reducing processing time to about 5-7 business days. This expedited fee applies nationwide, including Delaware.
Shipping Fees
Standard passport delivery is included in the application fee, but if you want faster shipping for your completed passport, you may pay extra for overnight delivery, usually around $20.
Passport Photo Costs
Passport photos must meet strict federal requirements. While some acceptance facilities may offer photo services on-site, the cost for a passport photo in Delaware typically ranges from $10 to $15 at photo centers, drugstores, or photography studios.
How to Pay for Your Passport in Delaware
When applying at an acceptance facility in Delaware, you typically pay fees via check or money order payable to the “U.S. Department of State” for the application fees. The execution fee is paid separately to the acceptance facility, often by check, money order, or credit/debit card. Always confirm acceptable payment methods with your chosen facility before your appointment.
Examples of Total Costs for Delaware Residents
Example 1: Adult First-Time Passport Book
- Application Fee: $130
- Execution Fee: $35
- Passport Photo: $15
- Total: $180
Example 2: Minor First-Time Passport Book and Card
- Application Fee: $115
- Execution Fee: $35
- Passport Photo: $15
- Total: $165
Example 3: Adult Passport Book Renewal by Mail
- Application Fee: $130
- Passport Photo: $15
- Total: $145 (no execution fee)
Example 4: Expedited Adult Passport Book
- Application Fee: $130
- Execution Fee: $35
- Expedited Fee: $60
- Passport Photo: $15
- Total: $240
Where to Get Passport Photos in Delaware
Delaware residents can get passport photos at various locations, including Walgreens, CVS, FedEx Office, and professional photographers. Some post offices in Delaware may offer photo services, but not all do. It’s a good idea to call ahead to confirm availability.
Passport Processing Times in Delaware
Standard passport processing usually takes 8-11 weeks, but times may vary depending on demand and federal processing loads. Expedited processing reduces this to 5-7 weeks or even less with urgent appointments at regional passport agencies, though Delaware does not have its own regional agency.
Additional Tips for Delaware Passport Applicants
- Visit the official U.S. Department of State website for the most up-to-date fee information and application forms.
- Make sure your documents, such as birth certificates and IDs, are ready and valid before applying.
- Plan ahead and apply early if possible to avoid expedited fees.
- Check for local acceptance facilities near you using the State Department’s online locator tool.
- If traveling soon, consider using an expedited courier service or contacting a registered passport expeditor in Delaware.
Conclusion
Understanding the costs involved in obtaining a passport in Delaware is crucial for a smooth application process. While the base fees are set by the federal government, additional costs such as execution fees, photos, and expedited processing add to the total. First-time applicants in Delaware should expect to pay between $165 and $240 depending on the passport type and service speed. Renewals by mail can reduce some costs, notably the execution fee.
By carefully preparing and budgeting for these expenses, Delaware residents can ensure their travel documents are ready when the time comes to explore the world. Always rely on official resources and authorized passport acceptance facilities in Delaware to avoid scams or unnecessary delays.
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