How to Get a US Passport for Your Child

Eligibility Criteria

• U.S. Citizenship: Your child must be a U.S. citizen. If your child was born abroad, you need to provide evidence of their citizenship, such as a Consular Report of Birth Abroad.
• Parental Consent: Both parents must consent to the issuance of the passport. If one parent cannot be present, a notarized consent form from the absent parent is required.

Required Documentation

• Proof of Citizenship: This can be a birth certificate, a previous passport, or a consular report of birth abroad.
• Proof of Relationship: Provide evidence that you are the child’s parent or guardian, such as a birth certificate listing the parents' names.
• Parental ID: Parents must present valid photo identification, such as a driver’s license or passport.
• Passport Photo: You need to submit a recent, color passport photo of the child. The photo must meet specific requirements, such as size and background color.

Application Form

• DS-11 Form: Complete the Form DS-11, which is available online or at a passport acceptance facility. This form must be filled out and submitted in person.

Submission Process

• In-Person Submission: Both parents and the child must appear in person to submit the application at a passport acceptance facility. You can find these facilities at many post offices, public libraries, and some federal buildings.
• Fees: The passport fee varies depending on whether you are requesting expedited service. As of the latest update, the cost for a child passport is $135 for routine processing and $235 for expedited processing.

Processing Time

• Routine Processing: Typically takes about 8-11 weeks.
• Expedited Processing: Takes about 5-7 weeks. This option is available if you need the passport more quickly due to urgent travel plans or other reasons.

Tracking and Receiving the Passport

• Tracking: Once the application is processed, you can track the status online using the application status check tool on the U.S. Department of State’s website.
• Delivery: The passport will be mailed to you. If you requested expedited service, you can expect faster delivery.

Common Pitfalls

• Incomplete Forms: Ensure that all fields in the DS-11 form are filled out correctly. Any mistakes can delay the processing.
• Incorrect Documentation: Double-check that you have all required documents and that they are current and valid.
• Missing Photos: Ensure the passport photo meets all the required specifications to avoid delays.

Special Circumstances

• Emergency Situations: If you need a passport urgently due to an emergency, contact the National Passport Information Center for guidance on expedited services and required documentation.
• Adopted Children: Special documentation and procedures apply if the child is adopted. You’ll need to provide legal adoption papers and proof of citizenship.

Renewals

• When to Renew: Child passports are valid for 5 years. Plan to renew the passport well before it expires to avoid issues with travel plans.
• Renewal Process: Renewals require a new application form and updated documentation, including the old passport.

Useful Resources

• U.S. Department of State Website: Provides detailed instructions and forms for passport applications.
• National Passport Information Center: Offers assistance and answers to frequently asked questions.