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Planning an International Trip?
As a designated Passport Acceptance Facility, we receive completed DS-11 forms for U.S. passport applications and forward them to the U.S. Department of State’s Passport Services, which is responsible for final review and issuance. Please review all instructions, requirements, and fees carefully before submitting your application. Incomplete or incorrect submissions may result in processing delays.
What Is the Difference Between a Passport Book and a Passport Card?
When applying for a U.S. passport, you can choose between a passport book, a passport card, or both. Each option has different travel uses and costs. It’s important to understand the difference before you apply.
Passport Book
The passport book is the standard document used for international travel and is recommended for air travel. It looks like a small booklet and contains pages for visas and entry stamps.
- Use for: Travel by air, land, or sea to any international destination
- Required for: All international flights
- Accepted worldwide
Passport Card
The passport card is a wallet-sized ID card. It is more limited in where and how it can be used. The passport card is a convenient and lower-cost option for frequent travelers to nearby countries by car or cruise ship.
- Use for: Travel by land or sea only
- Valid for: Entry to Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean and Bermuda only
- Not valid for: Any international air travel
Can I Get Both?
Yes! Many travelers choose to get both the passport book and card. This gives you full flexibility to travel by any method and keep a smaller ID option for land or sea trips.
U.S. Passport Fees
Below is a summary of current passport fees, updated as of June 2024. Two separate payments are required, one to the U.S. Department of State and one to the Acceptance Facility.
Learn More Details About Passport Fees Now.
Payment Instructions
- Application Fee: Paid directly to the U.S. Department of State.
- Execution/Acceptance Fee: Paid directly to the Acceptance Facility.
Passport Cards*
Passport cards are not valid for international air travel. They are only valid for travel to Canada, Mexico, Bermuda, and the Caribbean.
Adult Applicants (Age 16 and Older)
| Service | Form | Application Fee | Execution/Acceptance Fee |
|---|---|---|---|
| First-Time Adult Passport Book | DS-11 | $130 | $35 |
| First-Time Adult Passport Card* | DS-11 | $30 | $35 |
| First-Time Adult Passport Book & Card | DS-11 | $160 | $35 |
| Adult Passport Card (Renewal Only) | DS-82 | $30 | No charge |
Adult Renewals (Age 16 and Older)
| Service | Form | Application Fee |
|---|---|---|
| Adult Passport Book | DS-82 | $130 |
| Adult Passport Card* | DS-82 | $30 |
| Adult Passport Book & Card | DS-82 | $160 |
Minor Applicants (Under Age 16)
| Service | Form | Application Fee | Execution/Acceptance Fee |
|---|---|---|---|
| Minor Passport Book | DS-11 | $100 | $35 |
| Minor Passport Card* | DS-11 | $15 | $35 |
| Minor Passport Book & Card | DS-11 | $115 | $35 |
Optional Fees (Paid to the U.S. Department of State)
| Optional Service | Description | Fee |
|---|---|---|
| Expedite Fee | Faster processing. Additional to standard fees. | $60 |
| 1–2 Day Delivery | Delivery of issued passport book (not card) to U.S. addresses only. | $21.36 |
| File Search Fee | For applicants without proof of citizenship or prior passport. | $150 |
Steps to Prepare for Your Passport Application
Whether you're applying for your first passport or renewing an existing one, following these steps will help ensure a smooth application process.
Determine Which Form You Need
- Use Form DS-11 if you are a first-time applicant, under age 16, or your previous passport was issued over 15 years ago.
- Use Form DS-82 if you are renewing and meet eligibility requirements.
- You can complete the form online and print it, or fill it out by hand using black ink. Do not sign the form until instructed to do so during your appointment (if applying in person).
Gather Required Documents
- Proof of Citizenship – Photocopies, notarized copies and hospital birth certificates are not acceptable. Examples are previous passports, original birth certificates and certified copies of your birth certificate.
- Valid Government Issued Identity & Photocopy – driver’s license, state ID. Photocopies must be front and back on white 8.5”x11” paper.
Get a Passport Photo
- Photo must be in color, 2x2 inches in size, taken within the last 6 months.
- Must show a clear, full-face, front view with a plain white or off-white background.
- Most pharmacies, photo shops, and post offices offer passport photo services.
Review the Fees
There are two separate fees. Fees vary based on whether you’re applying for a passport book, card, or both.
For details, view the Passport Fees Page Now.
- Application Fee: Paid to the U.S. Department of State.
- Execution/Acceptance Fee: Paid to the passport acceptance facility.
Locate a Passport Acceptance Facility
- In Pitt County, the Register of Deeds Office is a designated acceptance facility for DS-11 forms.
- Use your ZIP code to search for other nearby facilities such as post offices.
Submit Your Application
- If using Form DS-11, you must apply in person and provide all required documents and fees.
- If eligible to use Form DS-82, you can renew by mail using the instructions on the form.
Track Your Application Status
- It typically takes 6–8 weeks for routine processing or 2–3 weeks for expedited service.
- Use the official online tool to Check Your Passport Status Now