The cost of a U.S. passport in Iowa is the same as anywhere else in the Uniteds States, as these are federal fees set by the U.S. Department of State. For a first-time adult applicant, a standard passport book costs $130 for the application fee, plus an additional $35 for the execution (acceptance) fee, totaling $165. These fees apply whether you are applying in Des Moines, Cedar Rapids, or any other city across Iowa.
Understanding Passport Costs
The total cost of a passport can vary depending on several factors, including the type of passport product you choose, your age, and how quickly you need it. It’s important to distinguish between the application fee, which goes to the U.S. Department of State, and the execution fee, which is paid to the facility that processes your application.
Standard Passport Book:
- Adult (Age 16 and over): $130 (application fee) + $35 (execution fee) = $165
- Minor (Under Age 16): $100 (application fee) + $35 (execution fee) = $135
Passport Card:
A passport card is a wallet-sized document valid for land and sea travel to Canada, Mexico, Bermuda, and the Caribbean. It cannot be used for international air travel.
- Adult (Age 16 and over): $30 (application fee) + $35 (execution fee if applying for the first time or without a book) = $65
- Minor (Under Age 16): $15 (application fee) + $35 (execution fee if applying for the first time or without a book) = $50
Passport Book and Card Combination:
Many Iowans opt for both a passport book and card for comprehensive travel flexibility.
- Adult (Age 16 and over): $160 (application fee) + $35 (execution fee) = $195
- Minor (Under Age 16): $115 (application fee) + $35 (execution fee) = $150
Passport Renewal:
If you are renewing an adult passport by mail, you generally do not pay the $35 execution fee.
- Adult Passport Book Renewal: $130 (application fee)
- Adult Passport Card Renewal: $30 (application fee)
- Adult Passport Book and Card Renewal: $160 (application fee)
Additional Costs and Expedited Services
Sometimes, travel plans require a passport faster than routine processing allows. The U.S. Department of State offers expedited services for an extra fee.
- Expedited Service Fee: An additional $60 per application, regardless of the passport product. This significantly shortens processing times.
- 1-2 Day Delivery: For an extra $19.53, your completed passport book can be shipped back to you via express mail. This is only available for passport books, not cards.
- File Search Fee: If you cannot provide proof of U.S. citizenship and the Department of State needs to search its records, there is an additional $150 fee.
For urgent travel (within a few weeks), Iowans may need to visit a regional passport agency. The closest agencies to Iowa are typically in Chicago, Minneapolis, or Denver. These appointments are reserved for those with immediate international travel plans and require proof of travel.
Applying for a Passport in Iowa: Practical Steps
Applying for a U.S. passport in Iowa involves a few key steps and required documents.
- Complete the Application Form (DS-11): Fill out the form online and print it. Do NOT sign it until instructed by an acceptance agent.
- Gather Required Documents:
- Proof of U.S. Citizenship: Original birth certificate, previous undamaged passport, or Certificate of Naturalization.
- Valid Photo Identification: Driver’s license (Iowa DOT-issued), state ID, or military ID.
- Photocopies: Bring front and back photocopies of both your citizenship evidence and your ID.
- Passport Photo: A recent, color photo meeting specific requirements (2×2 inches, white background, no glasses). Many pharmacies, photo studios, and even some acceptance facilities in Iowa offer passport photo services.
- Find an Acceptance Facility: In Iowa, passport applications are processed at designated post offices, county clerk offices, and some public libraries. You can find a facility near you using the U.S. Department of State’s online search tool. Popular locations include:
- Des Moines: Various USPS locations, Polk County Clerk’s Office.
- Cedar Rapids: Multiple USPS branches, Linn County Recorder’s Office.
- Iowa City: USPS locations, Johnson County Recorder’s Office.
- Davenport: USPS branches, Scott County Recorder’s Office.
- Sioux City: USPS locations, Woodbury County Clerk of Court.
- Schedule an Appointment: Many facilities require appointments, especially for first-time applicants.
- Submit Your Application: Present all documents, your unsigned DS-11 form, and your passport photo to an acceptance agent. They will witness your signature.
- Pay the Fees: You will pay the application fee (to the U.S. Department of State) and the execution fee (to the acceptance facility). Payment methods vary by facility, but generally include checks or money orders for the application fee, and checks, money orders, or credit/debit cards for the execution fee.
Related Facts for Iowa Travelers
Iowa’s central location in the United States means that international travel almost always involves flying out of a major hub airport, such as Chicago O’Hare (ORD), Minneapolis-St. Paul (MSP), or Denver International (DEN). This makes having a valid passport essential for any international trip, as you cannot board an international flight without one, even for connecting flights.
Many Iowans travel internationally for a variety of reasons, including leisure vacations, business trips related to the state’s strong agricultural and manufacturing sectors, and visiting family abroad. Given Iowa’s generally rural character outside of its major metropolitan areas, planning ahead for passport applications is crucial, as acceptance facilities might have limited hours or require appointments further in advance.
Safety Notes and Legal Considerations
- Protect Your Passport: Your passport is a valuable document. Keep it in a safe place, both at home and while traveling. Consider making photocopies of your passport’s data page and storing them separately, or keeping a digital copy on a secure cloud service.
- Report Lost or Stolen Passports: If your passport is lost or stolen, report it immediately to the U.S. Department of State. This prevents fraudulent use and helps you obtain a replacement. You can do this online, by phone, or by mail.
- Passport Validity: Many countries require your passport to be valid for at least six months beyond your intended departure date. Always check the entry requirements for your destination well in advance of travel.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I get a passport same-day in Iowa?
A: No, same-day passports are generally not available at local acceptance facilities in Iowa. For urgent, same-day service, you would need an appointment at a regional passport agency, typically located in major cities like Chicago or Minneapolis, and proof of imminent international travel.
Q: How long does it take to get a passport in Iowa?
A: Routine processing times can vary but typically range from 6-8 weeks. Expedited service can reduce this to 2-3 weeks, plus mailing time. It’s always best to check the most current processing times on the U.S. Department of State website.
Q: Where can I get a passport photo in Iowa?
A: Many places offer passport photo services across Iowa, including most Walgreens, CVS, and UPS stores, as well as some independent photo studios and even some post office locations. Ensure the photo meets all U.S. Department of State requirements.
Conclusion
Obtaining a U.S. passport in Iowa involves federal fees that are consistent nationwide. A first-time adult passport book costs $165, which includes the $130 application fee and the $35 execution fee. Additional costs apply for passport cards, expedited processing, or faster delivery. Planning ahead, gathering the correct documents, and understanding the fee structure will ensure a smooth application process for your international travel needs from the Hawkeye State.
