How to Get a Passport for Your Child: Step-by-Step Guide
Getting a child’s passport has more requirements than applying for an adult’s, which can make the instructions feel overwhelming—and honestly, it’s so easy to keep putting it off. Whether you’re planning your child’s first international trip or just want to have their documents ready in case an opportunity comes up, this guide will walk you through the process to get your child a U.S. passport step by step.
Important Rules for Child’s Passport Application:
Applications for children must be done in person with the child in attendance. There’s no option to apply online or by mail.
Both parents (or guardians) must attend unless special circumstances apply.
Passport validity is 5 years for children under 16.
-
There’s no option to apply for child’s passport online or by mail. This has to happen face-to-face at an authorized Passport Acceptance Facility (think post offices, county clerk’s offices, or passport agency).
Need both parents (or guardians) in attendance, unless special circumstances apply.
Passport validity is 5 years.
-
Child’s Birth Certificate (1 original and 1 photocopy)
Both Parents Names on the Birth Certificate
Both Parents At the Appointment
Both Parent’s Valid US ID - (presented at the appointment + 1 photocopy)
Marriage Certificate only if Maiden Name Changed on ID
[1 ] 2×2 Passport Photo
Check or Money Order
Step 1: Gather the Necessary Documents
Organizing your documents ahead of time will make your appointment so much smoother Use this checklist to ensure you’re prepared:
Getting the paperwork organized before the appointment will make your appointment a much smoother experience.
What Documents Do You Need for a Child’s Passport?
Proof Your Child is a U.S. Citizen:
Child’s Birth Certificate - 1 original and 1 photocopy
If not born on US soil you will provide the US Consulate report of birth abroad or a certificate of citizenship.
Proof of Your Parental Rights:
The child’s birth certificate is sufficient showing both parent’s names
Adoption papers or legal document establishing rights if applicable
Proof of Maiden Name (If Changed):
Marriage certificate if applicable - 1 original
Your maiden name is what appears on your child’s birth certificate regardless of legally changing to your married name (that was news to me!). If your ID is under a new married name, you will need to submit your marriage certificate or other legal proof of maiden name change to show proof of parental rights that match with the birth certificate.
Both Parent’s IDs:
Valid driver’s license, passport, or government-issued ID - Presented at appointment and 1 photocopy
If one parent is unable to appear, the absent parent must complete and notarize Form DS-3053 (statement of consent) and a photocopy of the absent parent’s valid photo ID (front and back).
Passport Photo
1 photo (2x2 inches) taken within the last six months.
Requirements:
Neutral face looking at the camera (newborns can have their eyes closed).
Background must be plain white or off-white, without shadows.
Child can’t have a hat, pacifier or any other object or person in the picture.
Child passport Photo Tips:
Taking the photo at home:
This is a good option if you prefer to have a bit more control of the process for a good picture (it does last 5 years after all!) You lay a white sheet on the floor or on your bed and take the photos on your phone. Once you are happy with the outcome submit it on a passport site like this one that guarantees that the photo will be accepted. They’ll either mail you a guaranteed-approved version or a digital photo that you can print it locally at a photo center such as CVS, UPS or similar.
Taking the photo at a photo center:
You can go directly to the photo center to take the photo there.
Taking the photo on appointment day:
Certain passport appointment locations provide photo service at the appointment. You need to select the photo option when booking the appointment.
Complete U.S. Passport Application (Form DS-11 )
You need to complete a minor’s passport application called DS-11 ahead of the appointment. It’s available online either filling out this form as a form filler and then printed or downloaded as a PDF and printed with written responses in blue or black ink. Do not sign it until you're instructed to do so at your appointment!
7. Check or Money Order
Bring a check or money order for the fees addressed to US Department of State. I prefer to bring it blank and complete it onsite in case of any changes needed that I wasn’t aware of.
Standard Passport: $135 total ($100 application fee + $35 execution fee) received within 6-8 weeks.
Expedited Passport: $185 (Standard Passport Fee +$60 to expedite) received within 2-3 weeks.
Step 2: Schedule Your Passport Appointment
Availability can fill up quickly during busy travel seasons, so book early.
If one parent can’t attend, remember to bring:
Notarized Form DS-3053 (Statement of Consent).
Photocopy of the absent parent’s ID (front and back).
How to Book a Passport Appointment for a Minor
You need to book an appointment to submit the documents and sign the application. You can use the USPS Passport Scheduler to find a location near you. Availability fills up quickly—especially during busy travel seasons. Both parents must attend, so plan schedules accordingly. Make your appointment well in advance, and double-check the facility’s hours, payment methods, and whether they offer on-site photo services.
Step 3: Attend the Appointment
Here’s what to expect:
On the day of your appointment you’ll arrive on time with your child present, all your documents, and check or money order.
The passport agent will review everything and ask you to sign the application in front of them.
Your child’s original birth certificate, marriage certificate and photocopies will be submitted with the application. The original documents will be mailed back to you along with the new passport.
Step 4: Wait for Processing
How Long Does It Take to Get a Child’s Passport?
Processing times depend on the service you choose:
Routine Processing: 6–9 weeks.
Expedited Processing: 2–3 weeks (additional $60).
If you need the passport urgently (within 2 weeks), contact a Regional Passport Agency and provide proof of immediate travel.
You can track the status of your application online at the State Department’s website.
How To Ensure a Hassle-Free Experience
Double-Check the Checklist: Forgetting a document means you’ll have to reschedule your appointment, double-check your list before you head there!
Make Copies: Bring photocopies of all documents, especially IDs, to save time at the appointment.
Plan Early: If you know you’ll need a passport for an upcoming trip, start the process at least 3–4 months in advance to account for potential delays.
Bonus Tip: Add Global Entry
Once you’ve got the passport, consider adding Global Entry for even smoother travels with your little adventurer. Global Entry includes TSA PreCheck. TSA PreCheck makes airport security much easier with usually shorter lines and not needing to take off shoes, electronics etc. Global entry helps you skip the long customs lines when returning to the U.S. This is FREE for minors under 18 but to qualify they to sign up and go to the appointment and have a legal guardian either enrolled in the program or in pending status.
With timely prep and planning, getting a passport for your child is seamless. Once it’s all submitted, the wait is worth it—because that little blue booklet is your family’s ticket to adventures worldwide!
If you found this guide helpful, share it with another parent who’s gearing up for the same process. 🌍✈️