A child's passport costs $135 in 2026
Children under 16 always apply in person with form DS-11. A passport book costs $100 plus the $35 acceptance fee, so $135. A card costs $50 in total and a book and card $150.
Passport fees for children under 16 (Form DS-11)
| Passport book, application fee | $100 |
|---|---|
| Passport card, application fee | $15 |
| Book and card, application fee | $115 |
| Acceptance fee | $35 |
| Expedite fee (optional) | $60 |
| 1 to 3 day delivery (optional, books only) | $22.05 |
| Book, routine service | $135 |
|---|---|
| Book, expedited | $195 |
| Card, routine service | $50 |
Children under 16 cannot renew by mail. Each new passport is a new DS-11 application. Source: US Department of State, United States Passport Fees chart (updated March 2026).
What this price covers
A child's passport costs $30 less than an adult's, but children under 16 pay the $35 acceptance fee every time because they must apply in person.
What changes your price
- Book or card. A book is $135 all in, a card $50.
- Speed. Expedited adds $60.
Ways to pay less
- Plan ahead. Children cannot renew by mail, so every passport needs an in-person visit.
- Only add a card if the child will cross land or sea borders nearby.
How we got these numbers
Every number on this page comes from the US Department of State, the agency that sets the fee. Where we show a total, we only add up the agency's own listed fees so you can see the full cost in one place. We do not add our own guesses and there is no calculator, because the government sets one price for everyone. Fees can change, so check the agency's website before you pay. We last checked on September 26, 2026.
Common questions
How much is a child passport?
$135 for a book: $100 plus the $35 acceptance fee.
Can a child passport be renewed by mail?
No. Children under 16 must apply in person each time.