Applying for a U.S. passport for your child can feel daunting, especially if it's your first time navigating the process. From documentation requirements to custody considerations, there are several steps to follow to ensure a successful and timely application. Whether you're a first-time parent traveler or managing complex family circumstances, this comprehensive guide will walk you through every part of the journey, and also explain how our expert team at USPassport.com can help make it faster and easier.
Who Needs a Passport?
All U.S. citizens - including infants and children - must have their own passport to travel internationally. A child's passport is valid for 5 years (versus 10 years for adults) and requires both parents' or legal guardians' consent.
The Difference Between a First-Time Child Passport and Renewing an Existing One
Unlike adult passport renewals, child passports cannot be renewed by mail. If your child has a passport due to soon expire - or that has expired - and they are still under age 16, that is treated as a brand new application and you must apply in person using the same process as before. The requirements remain the same - including both parents appearing (or providing consent) and submitting Form DS-11. Once your child turns 16, they are eligible to apply for a 10-year adult passport and may be eligible to renew by mail or online in the future.
Step-by-Step: How to Apply for a Child Passport
1. Confirm Eligibility
The child must be:
- A U.S. citizen or national
- Under the age of 16
2. Gather Required Documents
- Proof of U.S. citizenship: Certified U.S. birth certificate, consular report of birth abroad, or naturalization certificate
- Proof of parental relationship: Birth certificate, adoption decree, or court order
- Parental ID: Valid government-issued photo IDs (driver’s license, passport, etc.)
- Passport photo: A recent, compliant photo of the child (2x2 inches, white background)
- DS-11 form: Bring the completed application form with you, but DO NOT SIGN IT until instructed to do so at the passport acceptance facility
3. Both Parents MUST Be Present
It is extremely important to note that for children under 16, both parents or legal guardians must appear in person with the child at a passport acceptance facility (such as a post office or county clerk).
What If Both Parents Can't Appear?
One Parent Cannot Be Present
- Submit Form DS-3053 (Statement of Consent), signed and notarized by the non-applying parent, along with a copy of their valid ID.
One Parent Has Sole Custody
- Provide legal documentation such as a court order, custody decree, death certificate, or adoption paperwork proving sole legal custody.
One Parent is Deceased
- Submit a certified death certificate of the deceased parent to confirm the surviving parent's sole authority.
No Contact with Other Parent
- If the second parent cannot be located, Form DS-5525 (Statement of Exigent/Special Family Circumstances) may be submitted. Approval is at the discretion of the U.S. Department of State.
Special Situations: Divorced Parents and Custody Orders
If the parents are divorced but share joint legal custody, both must still be present or provide consent using the appropriate forms. If custody is in dispute or one parent refuses consent, your child's passport application is likely to be delayed at best, or denied altogether. Legal intervention may be required.
Where to Apply
You must apply in-person at a passport acceptance facility. Routine processing takes 6–8 weeks, while expedited services take 2–3 weeks.
If you need it faster, or want us to handle the application for you, that's where we come in.
How USPassport.com Can Help
At USPassport.com, we specialize in helping parents:
- Review documentation for completeness and accuracy
- Prepare and pre-fill DS-11 on your and your child's behalf, along with any other necessary forms
- Schedule appointments at acceptance facilities
- Navigate custody-related complexities
- Expedite applications for urgent travel (as fast as 24–72 hours)
Our expert passport specialists are just a phone call or email away. We take the stress out of the process so you can focus on preparing for your family trip.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I apply for my child’s passport online?
A: No. Applications for children under 16 must be made in person at an acceptance facility.
Q: How long is a child’s passport valid?
A: Child passports are valid for 5 years.
Q: Can a stepparent apply for a child’s passport?
A: Only legal parents or guardians can apply unless the stepparent has legal guardianship granted by a court.
Q: Do I need to bring my child to the appointment?
A: Yes. The child must be present, along with both parents or legal guardians.
Q: What happens if my child’s other parent won’t consent?
A: You may need to file Form DS-5525 and provide documentation to explain the situation. Approval is not guaranteed.
Final Tips
- Start early! Don't wait until the last minute.
- Double-check document requirements before your appointment.
- Use a trusted service like us to avoid errors and delays.
Getting a passport for your child doesn't have to be overwhelming. With preparation, the right documentation, and a trusted partner like us, you're just steps away from your next family adventure. Call us on 1-800-545-0000 or click here to book an appointment to begin the application process for your child today!
