Here’s the secret they don’t tell you: you’re paying two separate fees. Think of it like a cover charge for the club. One fee is for the application itself. The other is for the execution — which is fancy government-speak for “we watched you sign your name.”
For adults (16 and over) in the U.S., the combined cost is currently $165. Yes, you read that right. That’s not a typo, and no, it doesn’t include a free snack. It’s $130 for the application and $35 for the execution fee. Oof. That stings a little, doesn’t it?
But wait! There’s more! If you’re a kid (under 16), the price actually drops. It’s $115 total — $100 for the application, $15 for execution. The government knows kids can’t afford nice things yet. They’re merciful.
