Navigating the process to secure a passport in Missouri requires understanding specific fees and procedures, which vary based on the applicant's circumstances. This guide breaks down the exact costs, eligibility requirements, and steps for both first-time applicants and those needing renewals.
Standard Adult Passport Fees in Missouri
For a first-time adult applicant (age 16 and older) applying by mail in Missouri, the total cost is typically $130. This amount is divided into two distinct payments: a $30 application fee and a $100 execution fee. The $30 fee covers the processing of the application form, while the $100 fee is for the actual production of the book. Payment must be made via check or money order payable to U.S. Department of State.
Required Documentation for Adults
To qualify for the standard rate, applicants must present specific original documents. These include proof of U.S. citizenship, such as a certified birth certificate or naturalization certificate, and valid government-issued photo identification, like a driver's license. Additionally, applicants must submit one recent passport photo that meets strict criteria for size and background.
Pediatric Passport Costs for Minors
The pricing structure changes significantly for applicants under the age of 16. Parents or legal guardians applying for a child’s first passport must pay a total of $100. This total is composed of a $30 application fee and a $70 execution fee. Unlike adults, minors under 16 are not permitted to apply by mail for their first passport and must appear in person at an acceptance facility.
Applying in Person for Minors
When applying for a minor in Missouri, the child must be present at the appointment, even if the parent is submitting the application. The required documents are similar to an adult’s but must be provided in original form. Acceptable proof of citizenship includes an original or certified birth certificate, and the guardian must provide their own identification to verify their relationship to the child.
Expedited Processing and Additional Costs
If travel plans require a passport sooner than the standard processing time, Missouri residents can opt for expedited service. This service adds an additional $60 fee to the base price, regardless of whether the applicant is an adult or a minor. The processing time for expedited requests is typically 8-11 weeks, though current wait times should be verified on the official U.S. Department of State website.
Where to Submit in Missouri
While the fees are set federally, the acceptance locations in Missouri vary. Many applicants utilize local Clerk of the Circuit Court offices, public libraries, or post offices that offer passport acceptance services. It is advisable to call ahead to confirm the facility's hours and appointment requirements before traveling with sensitive documents.
Passport Card vs. Book
When budgeting for a passport in Missouri, it is important to distinguish between a passport book and a passport card. The fees mentioned above apply specifically to the passport book. A passport card, which is a wallet-sized ID for land and sea travel between the U.S., Canada, Mexico, and the Caribbean, carries an additional cost. First-time applicants can expect to pay an extra $30 for this card if they choose to obtain both simultaneously.
