According to this article from CNN, the state department is trying to raise the fees for new passports and to renew expiring passports possibly by April of this year. It is not yet a done deal, but if you are needing a new or renewed passport you might want to go ahead do so to avoid this higher possible cost.A new passport fee would increase to $135, up 35 percent from the current $100 fee. A renew fee would increase to $110 from the current $75.
You may want to apply for or renew your passport now. The State Department is anticipating that there might be a rush of passport applications from people trying to beat any possible fee hikes and they say they are ready to handle it.
Visit the official U.S. Department of State website for more information on obtaining or renewing your passport. You can obtain passport applications at many post offices. Visit the USPS website for this information.
Saturday, March 27, is "Passport Day in the USA" where you can apply for a passport at one of 23 regional offices without a reservation. A new office was added in Dallas this year. This website will help you locate the nearest Passport Acceptance Facility.
