How to Apply for Passport for Child

Applying for a passport for a child is a critical step for any parent or legal guardian planning international travel with a minor. Unlike adult passport applications, the process for children involves additional documentation, in-person appearances, and stricter verification protocols to ensure the child’s identity and parental consent are properly established. Whether you’re preparing for a family vacation, educational exchange, or emergency travel abroad, securing a valid passport for your child is not just a formality—it’s a legal requirement in nearly every country.

The U.S. Department of State, along with similar government agencies worldwide, treats child passport applications with heightened scrutiny due to the risk of international child abduction and identity fraud. Understanding the full process—from gathering required documents to scheduling appointments and avoiding common pitfalls—can save families weeks of delays and unnecessary stress. This comprehensive guide walks you through every phase of applying for a child’s passport, offering clear, actionable steps, expert best practices, essential tools, real-world examples, and answers to frequently asked questions.

Step-by-Step Guide

Applying for a passport for a child is a structured, multi-stage process. While the exact procedures may vary slightly depending on your country of residence, this guide follows the standard U.S. Department of State protocol, which serves as a widely referenced model. If you reside outside the United States, consult your nation’s passport authority for local variations, but the core principles remain consistent globally.

1. Determine Eligibility and Passport Type

Children under the age of 16 must apply for a standard child passport, which is valid for only five years. This is shorter than the ten-year validity granted to adult passports. Children aged 16 and 17 may apply for a 10-year passport, but they still require parental consent and must appear in person with at least one parent or legal guardian.

Before proceeding, confirm that your child has not already been issued a passport. Duplicate applications can cause processing delays. If a previous passport exists, determine whether it was lost, stolen, or expired. Each scenario requires different documentation.

2. Gather Required Documents

Three core categories of documents are required for a child’s passport application: proof of U.S. citizenship, proof of parental relationship, and identification for the applying parent or guardian.

Proof of U.S. Citizenship: You must provide an original or certified copy of one of the following:

• U.S. birth certificate (issued by the city, county, or state)
• Consular Report of Birth Abroad (FS-240 or DS-1350)
• Certificate of Citizenship (Form N-560 or N-561)
• Previously issued, undamaged U.S. passport

The birth certificate must be long-form, listing the child’s full name, date of birth, place of birth, and parents’ full names. Short-form certificates, hospital-issued certificates, or baptismal certificates are not acceptable.

Proof of Parental Relationship: If the child’s birth certificate lists both parents, it serves as proof of relationship. If only one parent is listed, additional documentation may be needed, such as a court order establishing custody, adoption decree, or death certificate of the other parent.

Parental Identification: Each parent or legal guardian appearing in person must present a valid, government-issued photo ID. Acceptable forms include:

• Driver’s license
• State-issued ID card
• Government employee ID
• Military ID
• Valid passport (U.S. or foreign)

If one parent cannot appear, additional forms are required to demonstrate consent. See the section on “Special Circumstances” below for details.

3. Complete Form DS-11

All children under 16 must apply using Form DS-11, the standard passport application form. This form cannot be completed online for first-time applicants under 16. You may download and fill it out in advance from the official U.S. Department of State website, but do not sign it until instructed to do so by the acceptance agent at the passport office.

Ensure all information matches exactly with the birth certificate and other supporting documents. Inconsistencies in spelling, dates, or names can trigger delays. If the child’s name has changed (e.g., due to adoption or legal name change), include court documentation proving the change.

4. Obtain Parental Consent

Both legal parents or guardians must provide consent for a child’s passport application. This is non-negotiable under U.S. law and many international jurisdictions. Consent must be demonstrated in one of two ways:

• Both parents appear in person: Each parent must present valid photo ID and sign the application in front of the acceptance agent.
• One parent appears with Form DS-3053: If one parent cannot attend, they must complete Form DS-3053, “Statement of Consent,” and submit it with a copy of their valid photo ID. This form must be notarized. A photocopy of the ID must be attached—originals are not accepted.

If the non-appearing parent is deceased, submit a certified copy of the death certificate. If the non-appearing parent has abandoned the child or is otherwise unavailable, submit Form DS-5525, “Statement Regarding Non-Appearance of Parent,” along with supporting evidence such as court orders, police reports, or affidavits.

Failure to provide proper consent will result in immediate denial of the application.

5. Secure a Passport Photo

Passport photos must meet strict biometric standards. The photo must be:

• 2 x 2 inches in size
• In color, with a plain white or off-white background
• Taken within the last six months
• Showing the child’s full face, front view, with eyes open and no obstruction
• Without hats, head coverings, or glasses (unless medically necessary with a doctor’s note)
• Printed on thin, high-quality photo paper

Children under one year old may be photographed lying down, but the face must be clearly visible, with no shadows or reflections. Avoid using toys, pacifiers, or other objects in the frame. Many pharmacies, post offices, and photo studios offer passport photo services for a small fee. Always confirm the photo meets official requirements before submitting.

6. Calculate and Pay Fees

As of 2024, the fees for a child’s first-time passport book are:

• Passport Book: $130
• Passport Card: $30 (for land and sea travel to Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Bermuda only)
• Execution Fee (paid to acceptance facility): $35

These fees are non-refundable, regardless of whether the application is approved. Payment methods vary by location. Most acceptance facilities accept checks, money orders, or credit/debit cards. Some may only accept checks or money orders—call ahead to confirm.

Expedited service is available for an additional $60 and reduces processing time to 2–5 weeks. For urgent international travel within 14 days, you may qualify for an appointment at a regional passport agency. Documentation proving imminent travel (e.g., flight itinerary, hospital letter) is required.

7. Schedule and Attend an Appointment

Children under 16 cannot apply by mail. All applications must be submitted in person at an authorized acceptance facility. These include:

• Post offices
• County clerk offices
• Public libraries with passport services
• Some courthouses

Use the U.S. Department of State’s Facility Locator Tool to find the nearest location. Appointments are strongly recommended and often required. Walk-ins may be accepted, but wait times can exceed several hours.

Bring all documents, completed forms, photos, and payment to your appointment. The child must be present. The acceptance agent will review your documents, witness signatures, take a digital photo if needed, and collect fees. You will receive a receipt with a tracking number.

8. Track Your Application

After submission, you can track your application status online at travel.state.gov using your receipt number. Processing typically takes 8–11 weeks for routine service and 5–7 weeks for expedited service. Do not assume your application is lost if you don’t receive updates immediately—processing times vary by volume and season.

If you need faster service and your travel is within 14 days, contact the National Passport Information Center to schedule an appointment at a regional agency. Bring proof of travel, such as a flight itinerary or hotel reservation.

9. Receive and Verify the Passport

Once processed, your child’s passport will be mailed to the address you provided on Form DS-11. Do not send it to a P.O. Box unless you have arranged for secure delivery. Upon receipt, immediately inspect the passport for errors: name spelling, date of birth, photo, and expiration date. If any discrepancies are found, contact the passport agency immediately to request a correction.

Sign the passport in the designated space on page 3. Although children under 16 are not required to sign, it is recommended that the parent or guardian signs on the child’s behalf with their own signature and printed name next to it.

Best Practices

Applying for a child’s passport involves navigating a complex system with high stakes. Small oversights can lead to delays, denials, or even travel disruptions. Below are proven best practices to ensure a smooth, error-free process.

Start Early

Do not wait until the day before your trip. Routine processing times are 8–11 weeks. Peak seasons—summer, holidays, and school breaks—can extend this to 12–14 weeks. Begin the process at least three months before your planned international departure.

Double-Check All Documents

One of the most common reasons for application denial is mismatched or incomplete documentation. Cross-reference your child’s birth certificate, name on the application, and photo ID of the parent. Ensure all names are spelled identically. Even a missing hyphen or middle initial can trigger a request for additional evidence.

Use Certified Copies, Not Photocopies

While photocopies are acceptable for some documents (e.g., ID copies), proof of citizenship must be the original or a certified copy issued by the vital records office. A certified copy bears an official seal and signature. If you’re unsure whether your birth certificate is certified, contact the issuing agency.

Prepare for Parental Disputes

In cases of divorce, separation, or single parenthood, legal custody documents are essential. If one parent refuses to consent, consult a family attorney. Courts may issue orders granting sole authority to apply for a passport. Keep copies of all legal correspondence and court orders on hand.

Keep Digital and Physical Copies

Before submitting your application, make high-quality scans or photos of every document you plan to submit. Store them securely in the cloud and on a physical drive. In the event of lost mail or a processing issue, having these copies can expedite resolution.

Do Not Use a Third-Party Service Unless Necessary

While private companies offer to handle passport applications for a fee, most do not provide faster service than applying directly through official channels. The government does not charge extra for expedited service beyond the $60 fee. Avoid companies that promise “guaranteed approval” or “priority processing”—these are misleading claims.

Update Your Child’s Information

If your child’s appearance changes significantly (e.g., major weight loss/gain, facial surgery, or long-term medical treatment), take a new passport photo before applying. While minor changes are acceptable, extreme differences can cause issues at border control.

Register with Your Country’s Travel Registry

Many governments offer voluntary travel registration services. Registering your child’s travel plans with your embassy or consulate abroad can assist in emergencies, such as natural disasters, political unrest, or medical crises. It also ensures you receive safety alerts and consular assistance.

Teach Your Child About Their Passport

As your child grows, educate them about the importance of their passport. Teach them to recognize it, know its number, and understand it is not a toy. Store it securely and never leave it unattended during travel.

Tools and Resources

Several official and third-party tools can simplify the passport application process for children. These resources help you avoid errors, save time, and stay informed.

Official Government Tools

• U.S. Department of State Passport Website – travel.state.gov – The primary source for forms, fees, processing times, and location finders. Updated daily.
• Passport Application Status Tracker – Available on the State Department website. Enter your receipt number to view real-time status.
• Passport Facility Locator – iafdb.travel.state.gov – Search by ZIP code to find nearby acceptance agents with appointment availability.
• Passport Photo Requirements Tool – Interactive tool on the State Department site that shows acceptable vs. unacceptable photos with visual examples.

Third-Party Tools

• Passport Photo Online – Web-based tools like passportphotoonline.com allow you to upload a photo and automatically crop and adjust it to meet government specifications. Useful for home users.
• Google Calendar or Travel Planning Apps – Set reminders for application deadlines, appointment dates, and renewal windows. A child’s passport expires at age 16, so mark the date five years in advance.
• Document Scanner Apps – Use apps like Adobe Scan or Microsoft Lens to digitize and organize documents. These apps enhance text clarity and allow you to email copies instantly.
• Family Travel Checklists – Download printable checklists from reputable parenting or travel blogs (e.g., The Points Guy, Lonely Planet) that include passport-specific items.

Printable Forms and Templates

Download and print the following forms directly from the U.S. Department of State website:

• Form DS-11: Application for a U.S. Passport
• Form DS-3053: Statement of Consent
• Form DS-5525: Statement Regarding Non-Appearance of Parent
• Form DS-64: Statement Regarding Lost or Stolen Passport

Always use the most recent version of each form. Outdated forms are rejected.

Mobile Apps for Travelers

Consider installing these apps to support ongoing passport management:

• Traveler’s Check – Alerts you to entry requirements, visa rules, and health advisories for your destination.
• Passport & Visa Tracker – Tracks expiration dates and sends renewal reminders.
• Google Translate – Useful for translating passport information or emergency phrases abroad.

Real Examples

Real-world scenarios illustrate common challenges and solutions in child passport applications. These examples are based on anonymized public cases and official guidance.

Example 1: Single Parent with Court Order

Sarah, a mother in Texas, applied for her 4-year-old daughter’s first passport after a divorce. The father had relinquished parental rights in a court order. Sarah brought the original court decree, her daughter’s certified birth certificate, her driver’s license, and a completed DS-11. She did not need the father’s consent. Her application was approved in 6 weeks. She advises: “Always bring the original court order—even if you think it’s obvious, they need to see it.”

Example 2: Lost Passport Before Trip

David and Lisa’s 7-year-old son lost his passport during a family trip to Mexico. They returned to the U.S. and needed a replacement within 10 days for a planned school exchange in Canada. They visited the regional passport agency in Los Angeles with proof of travel (school letter and flight itinerary), a completed DS-11, a police report of the lost passport, and their IDs. They received a new passport in 4 days. “Don’t wait,” David says. “Go to the agency. They can help.”

Example 3: Parent Abroad, No Consent

Maria, living in New York, wanted to apply for her 5-year-old’s passport, but the father lived in Brazil and refused to sign. She submitted Form DS-5525 with an affidavit from her attorney, a copy of the father’s last known address, and evidence of his lack of involvement (text messages, emails). After a 3-week review, her application was approved. “Document everything,” Maria says. “Even if it’s ugly, write it down.”

Example 4: Birth Certificate Mismatch

James applied for his daughter’s passport using a birth certificate with her maiden name. His marriage certificate showed he had changed his last name, but the child’s birth certificate had not been updated. The application was denied. He had to file a petition with the vital records office to amend the birth certificate, which took 8 weeks. He advises: “If your name changed after the birth, make sure the child’s name matches your legal documents—or prepare to fix it.”

Example 5: Expired Passport Renewal

At age 15, Emily’s passport expired. Her parents assumed she could renew by mail like adults. They mailed Form DS-82 and were rejected. Children under 16 must apply in person using DS-11. They rescheduled an appointment and submitted the correct form. They received the new passport in time for her high school trip to Europe. “Never assume the rules are the same for kids,” Emily’s mother says.

FAQs

Can I apply for a child’s passport online?

No. First-time applicants under 16 must apply in person at an authorized acceptance facility. Online applications are only available for adult renewals using Form DS-82.

Do both parents have to be present?

Yes, unless one parent provides a notarized Form DS-3053 or there is a legal exception (e.g., death, abandonment, court order).

What if one parent is deceased?

Submit a certified copy of the death certificate in place of the non-appearing parent’s consent.

Can a grandparent apply for a child’s passport?

Only if they are the legal guardian with court documentation. Otherwise, a parent or legal guardian must apply.

How long does a child’s passport last?

Five years for children under 16. After that, they must apply for a new passport as a first-time applicant.

Can I use a photocopy of my ID?

No. You must present the original. However, you must provide a photocopy of your ID for the application file.

What if my child’s name has changed legally?

You must provide a certified copy of the court order or legal name change document, along with the birth certificate and new identification.

Can a child have a passport if they don’t have a Social Security number?

No. You must provide the child’s Social Security number. If they don’t have one, apply for it first through the Social Security Administration.

Can I get a passport for a newborn?

Yes. As soon as the birth certificate is issued, you can apply. Many parents do so before the child is six weeks old to prepare for travel.

What if I’m traveling with only one parent?

Carry a notarized consent letter from the non-traveling parent, even if not required for entry. Border agents may request it.

Can a child’s passport be renewed by mail?

No. All children under 16 must apply in person, even if they had a passport before.

Is there an age limit for passport photos?

No. The photo must reflect the child’s current appearance. Infants and toddlers may have different posing rules, but the photo must still meet all biometric standards.

Can I apply for a passport for an adopted child?

Yes. Submit the adoption decree, birth certificate (if available), and proof of legal guardianship. The process is the same as for biological children.

What happens if the application is denied?

You will receive a written notice explaining the reason. Common causes include missing documents, incomplete consent, or mismatched names. Correct the issue and reapply.

Can I expedite a child’s passport?

Yes. Pay the $60 expedite fee and schedule an appointment at a regional passport agency if travel is within 14 days.

Conclusion

Applying for a passport for a child is more than a bureaucratic task—it’s an act of preparation, responsibility, and love. Every document you gather, every form you complete, and every appointment you attend lays the foundation for your child’s ability to explore the world safely and legally. While the process may seem daunting, especially for first-time applicants, following this detailed guide ensures you avoid the most common mistakes and complete your application with confidence.

The key to success lies in preparation, attention to detail, and using official resources. Do not underestimate the importance of matching names, obtaining proper consent, or securing a compliant photo. Start early, keep copies, and never assume rules for adults apply to children. With the right approach, your child’s passport will be processed efficiently, allowing you to focus on the joy of international travel rather than administrative hurdles.

Remember: a passport is not just a travel document—it’s a child’s first official identity on the global stage. Treat it with care, and your efforts will open doors to education, culture, and unforgettable family experiences. Whether you’re crossing the border to Canada or flying to Japan, your child’s passport is the key to those adventures. Make sure it’s valid, accurate, and ready to go.