How To Get A Passport For A Child?

Getting ready for a family trip overseas? Securing a passport for your child is a crucial step in the process. Don't worry, it's simpler than you think! Learn how to get a passport for a child with our step-by-step guide.

1. Fill Out Form DS-11

To get started, you'll need to fill out Form DS-11, the official application form for a U.S. passport. Good news, it's easy! You can do it online using the Form Filler tool. Just remember not to sign the form until the passport acceptance agent tells you to do so.

When filling out the form, you'll choose the type of passport your child needs: a passport book, a passport card, or both. And if you're a family that loves to travel, consider getting a bigger passport book with more visa pages at no extra cost!

2. Get Evidence of U.S. Citizenship

You must provide original or certified physical copies of specific documents to support your child's passport application. A certified copy is any document stamped or sealed by the official issuing authority. Here's what you'll need:

• U.S. Birth Certificate: It must meet certain criteria:

• Issued by the state, county, or city of birth

• Lists the child's full name, date of birth, and place of birth

• Includes the full names of the parents

• Filed with the registrar's office within one year of birth

• The document carries the registrar's signature and the issuing authority's seal or stamp.

• Certificate of Citizenship

• Full Validity U.S. Passport: Ensure it's undamaged and has not expired

• In addition to proving your child's citizenship, you'll also need a document listing the child's parent(s) or legal guardian(s). Full validity refers to documents valid for (ten years) for adults and (five years) for children under 16.

• Consular Report of Birth Abroad or Certification of Birth

Keep in mind that only physical evidence of U.S. citizenship is accepted; no digital copies, such as mobile or electronic birth certificates. Also, remember to include a photocopy of the document with your application.

When submitting photocopies:

• Use black and white, letter-size paper (8.5 inches by 11 inches).

• Print on one side of the paper only.

• If you don't provide a photocopy, submit a second certified copy of your citizenship evidence. The original documents will be returned separately, usually within 8 weeks of receiving the new passport.

3. Show Your Relationship to Your Child

You must provide a document listing the child's parent or legal guardian. Here are some examples:

• U.S. birth certificate (also serves as evidence of U.S. citizenship)

• Foreign birth certificate

• Adoption decree

• Divorce or custody decree

• Court order

Certain documents, like a U.S. birth certificate, demonstrate U.S. citizenship and parental relationship. These documents must be originals or certified copies—not photocopies.

It's worth noting that you and your child may have different last names, but it's acceptable as long as the document showing your relationship to your child lists your full name.

If your name differs from the one on the document demonstrating your relationship to your child, provide proof of your legal name change.

4. Get a Photo ID

When applying for your child's passport, parents or guardians must bring a physical photo ID and a photocopy of it. This ensures proper identification and authentication of the application process. If a different state issues your photo ID than where you're applying, you should bring a second one for verification.

Here are the accepted photo IDs you can present:

• Valid or expired U.S. passport book or passport card

• Certificate of Citizenship

• Valid driver's license with a photo

• Certificate of Naturalization

• Government employee ID (city, county, state, or federal)

• Current (valid) foreign passport

• U.S. military or military dependent ID

• Enhanced Tribal Cards and Native American tribal IDs

• Mexican Consular ID used by a U.S. citizen parent of a child applicant

• U.S. Permanent Resident Card used by a U.S. citizen parent of a child applicant

• Trusted Traveler IDs (valid Global Entry, FAST, SENTRI, and NEXUS cards)

Please note: When presenting any of the above documents, you may need to provide an additional ID from the following list:

• In-state, fully valid learner's permit with a photo

• In-state, fully-valid non-driver ID with a photo

• Temporary driver's license with a photo

• If you don't have any of the photo IDs mentioned, you can visit the State.gov Identification page for further guidance and alternative options.

Additionally, when making photocopies of your photo ID, keep these tips in mind:

• Use black and white paper (no color).

• Use standard letter-size paper (8.5 inches by 11 inches).

• Make sure to copy on only one side of the paper to avoid confusion.

5. Provide More Documents (if both parents or guardians cannot apply)

When applying for a child's passport, both parents or guardians are typically required to be present during the application process. However, we understand this may not always be feasible due to various circumstances. If one or both parents cannot accompany the child in person, additional steps and documentation are necessary to proceed. Below, we outline the different scenarios and the corresponding actions to take:

One Parent Unable to Appear (but both have custody)

• Action: Submit a Statement of Consent: Form DS-3053. The non-appearing parent must

  • Sign and date Form DS-3053 in front of a certified notary public.

  • Provide a photocopy of the photo ID presented to the notary public.

One Parent has Sole Legal Custody or is the Only Parent

• Action - Submit one of the following documents:

  • Court order granting sole custody to apply for the child's passport.

  • A copy of your child's birth certificate or adoption decree listing the applying parent as the only parent.

  • A certified copy of the death certificate of the non-appearing parent.

  • For guardianship by an office or private institution, provide:

    • A certified copy of the court order designating the office or institution as the child's guardian.

    • Written approval from the office or institution for the applying individual, including a completed Form DS-3053.

    • Employee ID of the applying individual to verify their affiliation.

  • A certified copy of the court's declaration of incompetence of the parent who is not present.

Cannot Locate the Other Parent (but both have custody)

• Action - Submit a Statement of Special Family Circumstances: DS-5525. Additional evidence, such as a custody order or restraining order, may be requested to prevent international parental child abduction. If the military deploys the non-appearing parent, a notarized Form DS-3053 is usually required.

Neither Parent Can Appear

• Action - Submit a Statement of Consent: Form DS-3053 or a notarized statement from both parents or guardians authorizing another individual (e.g., grandparent) to apply for the child.

  • Include photocopies of the photo IDs for both parents or guardians.

  • Provide the statement or proof of sole custody.

Regardless of the scenario, submit Form DS-3053 and any other notarized statements within three months of signing them. By following these steps and providing the necessary documentation, you can successfully proceed with your child's passport application even if neither parent can be present.

6. Provide a Photo

You need to include one photo with your child's application. Visit the Passport Photo page for requirements and examples.

Do not staple or attach the photo to the form. The acceptance agent will review and attach it.

You can get a photo at:

• Passport acceptance facilities

• Passport photo services

• Take one at home with help from a friend or family member.

7. Pay Fees

When completing Form DS-11 for your child's passport application, there are two fees to keep in mind: an application fee and an execution (acceptance) fee. Here's a breakdown of the process and associated costs:

Application Fee:

• This fee is paid directly to the U.S. Department of State.

• The amount varies depending on the type of passport requested.

• You'll need to add an extra $60 for expedited service.

• An additional $19.53 fee applies if you want your passport shipped within 1-2 days after issuance.

Execution (Acceptance) Fee:

• You pay this fee to the facility where you submit your application.

• It remains constant regardless of the type of passport requested.

Fee Structure for Child Applicants (Form DS-11):

Please visit the State.gov Passport Fees page for more detailed information on payment methods and a comprehensive list of fees.

Payment Instructions:

• Families applying together can write one check or money order when paying the application fee to the U.S. Department of State.

• Ensure the check or money order includes each applicant's name and date of birth.

• Pay the execution (acceptance) fee separately at the application facility.

8. Find a Place to Apply

If you're in the United States, here's where to go depending on your travel timeline:

For Traveling in More Than 3 Weeks:

Visit a passport facility, like a post office, library, or local government office.

Check with the facility to see if an appointment is needed.

For Traveling in Less Than 3 Weeks:

Schedule an appointment at the center for expedited service or a passport agency.

For Applications Outside the United States:

Contact your nearest U.S. embassy or consulate for guidance on applying abroad.

9. Track Your Child's Passport Application Status

It may take 2 weeks from the day you apply until your child's application status is “In Process.”

Are you looking for expedited passport services for your child? Our team at the Chicago Passport & Visa Services is here to help make the process easier. We'll guide you through the steps and provide support to ensure your child's passport is ready for their travels.

 Frequently Asked Questions

Are both parents required for a child's passport in the USA?

Ideally, yes. At least one parent must be present to sign the passport application for a minor. Follow the State Department's guidelines for children under 16, ensuring you have the necessary forms and documents. Please note you cannot renew a child's passport.

How can I obtain a passport for my child if the father is unavailable?

If only one parent is applying, provide documentation such as a birth certificate listing you as the sole parent, a death certificate of the other parent, or a court order granting you sole custody. If one parent is unavailable, the non-applying parent must complete form DS-3053.

What is parental consent for a passport?

Parental consent is required when one or both legal parents or guardians cannot apply for their passport in person with the child. The absent parent or guardian can provide consent using form DS-3053 or a written statement containing the same information as the form.