U.S. Passport Requirements: Essential Rules, Fees, and Application Tips

U.S. regulations require a valid passport for nearly all international travel outside the United States. Travelzoo’s Newsdesk answers the most common passport questions to help you prepare confidently.

When Do You Need a Passport?

All U.S. citizens traveling outside the United States by air, land, or sea must have a valid U.S. passport.

Passports are not required for U.S. territories like Puerto Rico or the U.S. Virgin Islands. For closed-loop cruises (departing and returning to the same U.S. port), a passport is recommended but not mandatory—a government-issued photo ID (e.g., driver’s license) plus proof of citizenship (e.g., birth certificate) suffices for destinations in Mexico, Canada, the Caribbean, Bahamas, or Bermuda.

Note: A passport card offers a budget-friendly option for land and sea entries to the U.S. but cannot be used for air travel.

Do Children or Infants Need Passports?

Yes, passports are required for all ages—there is no minimum age requirement.

How Long Does Passport Processing Take? What About Urgent Travel?

Standard processing averages six weeks but can extend to three months due to backlogs. Expedited options are available for an additional fee.

Best Times to Apply for Faster Processing?

Over 110 million U.S. citizens hold passports, but many do not. Apply between September and December, a traditionally slower period, to avoid crowds.

What Are the Passport Fees?

First-time applicants age 16+: $135 total. Under 16: $105. Renewals: $110 for adults, $105 for minors. Expedited service adds $60 plus shipping. Pay by credit card at passport agencies; checks or money orders at acceptance facilities. The $25 execution fee accepts money orders everywhere, checks or cards at select locations like USPS.

Can You Apply for a Passport Online?

New applications require in-person visits to passport acceptance facilities (complete forms online, print, and bring them). Many post offices process applications and offer photos for $15 extra. Renewals can often be mailed—check the U.S. Department of State website.

Third-party services handle paperwork after you sign an affidavit but still require in-person signature at an agency. Their fees range from $40+ on top of government costs.

What Photo Specifications Are Required?

Submit a 2x2-inch color photo with a direct frontal head view against a plain background—no glamour shots. Places like FedEx Office provide passport photo services.

Where to Get Official Information?

Visit the U.S. Department of State’s passport website for the latest details.