USA Passport Application: The Complete Guide to Getting a US Passport for Your Child

USA Passport Application: If you need to apply for a passport for a child under the age of 16, prepare yourself for a more involved and detailed process compared to applying for an adult passport. This process is intentionally more thorough due to legal requirements designed to protect children from abduction, trafficking, and unauthorized travel. Looking for a hassle-free way to complete your Passport Renewal? Whether you are planning international travel or need to update your documents, our expert guide on the USA Passport Application process makes it easy. Learn how to Apply US Passport online or by mail with step-by-step instructions. How can I Renew My Passport quickly? We have you covered with the latest tips and requirements.

Every time a passport is needed for a minor, a brand-new application must be completed from scratch. The passport application process for children requires additional documentation and the in-person presence of both parents or legal guardians (in most cases). Let’s break down the process in detail.

What You Need to Apply for a Child’s Passport

To put on for a USA passport for a teenager under sixteen years of age, you will need to prepare and submit the following:

• • A fully finished Form DS-11.

• • A modern passport photo of the adolescent.

• • Proof of USA nationality for the kid (e.g., birth certificate).

• • Proof of parent connection.

• • Legal papers of both parents/guardians, plus copies.

• • Sum of ID fees (check money order).

While some of these items are similar to the adult application requirements, there are important differences, especially in who must appear in person and what documentation must be submitted.

Why the Child Passport Process Is Stricter

The US Department of State has implemented strict passport issuance rules for minors to protect children from exploitation, abduction, and illegal travel. While this means more paperwork and coordination for parents or guardians, these extra steps are essential safeguards. Need a USA Passport? Whether you are planning your first trip abroad or need to update your documents, we make it easy to apply USA Passport online. From Renew Passport services to Replace Lost Passport assistance, our platform offers a quick and secure way to Apply for a Passport. Start your US Passport Application today and travel with confidence.

USA Passport Application: Key Things to Know Before Applying

• • In-person appearance is required: The child and both parents/legal guardians must appear in person at the time of application (with some exceptions, discussed below).

• • Passports for minors cannot be renewed: A brand-new application must be filed each time.

• • Children’s passports are valid for only 5 years, unlike adult passports, which are valid for 10 years.

• • You must apply at an official passport acceptance facility, such as a post office or designated government office.

Passport Fees for Minors (Under Age 16) As of now, the following fees apply:

• • Passport Book: $135

• • Passport Card: $50

• • Both Book and Card: $150

• • Expedited Processing (optional): Additional $60

Step-by-Step Guide to Getting a Passport for a Minor

Step 1: Complete Passport Application Form DS-11

There are two ways to complete Form DS-11: Option A: Fill It Out Online You can enter the required details using the online application form, then print the completed version. Be aware that some users report connection issues or trouble entering certain answers. Option B: Fill It Out by Hand (Offline) Transfer the complete form, print it, and seal it out neatly in gloomy ink. Writing any indecipherable handwriting could main to errors or delays in passport processing. Form DS-11 is just two pages and contains 22 questions. It requests standard personal information, including:

• • Full name

• • Date and place of birth

• • Sex

• • Contact details

• • Travel plans (optional)

• • Emergency contact

Although the official estimated time to complete the form is 85 minutes, most people finish it much quicker.

Step 2: Gather Required Supporting Documents

You must bring all necessary original documents and copies when applying. These include:

1. Proof of US Citizenship (for the child):

Choose one of the following:

• • Certified USA birth certificate (must be a “long-form” version)

• • Consular Report of Birth Abroad

• • Certificate of Naturalization

• • Certificate of Citizenship

• • Previously issued USA Passport (undamaged)

Ensure the birth certificate is issued by a USA city, county, or state authority and includes both the child’s name and the parents’ names.

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2. Proof of Parental Relationship:

Accepted documents include:

• • Child’s birth certificate (USA or foreign)

• • Adoption decree

• • Divorce or custody decree

• • Court-issued guardianship or custody orders

• • Consular Report of Birth Abroad (Form FS-240)

This document must establish the parental/legal relationship to the minor applicant.

3. Identification for Parents/Guardians:

Each parent or legal guardian must present one of the following:

• • Valid driver’s license

• • Valid USA or foreign passport

• • Government-issued photo ID

• • Military ID

A photocopy of the front and back of each ID must also be submitted. These copies must be on plain 8.5” x 11” white paper and printed on one side only.

4. Passport Photo of the Child:

One passport-style photo must be submitted. It must:

• • Be taken within the last 6 months

• • Have a white background

• • Measure 2×2 inches

• • Show the child facing forward, with a neutral expression

Step 3: Apply In Person at a Passport Acceptance Facility

Once you have Form DS-11 filled out and all necessary documents ready, visit an authorized passport acceptance facility with your child. Most facilities are located in post offices, clerks of court, or other government buildings.

USA Passport Application: Special Family Situations

Different family structures may require additional forms and documentation. Here’s how to handle those:

If Only One Parent/Guardian Is Applying:

You must show evidence that you have the sole authority to apply:

• • Birth certificate or adoption decree listing only one parent

• • Court order granting sole custody

• • Court order allowing travel with the child

• • Death certificate of the non-applying parent

• • Judicial declaration of incompetence of the non-applying parent

If the Other Parent Cannot Be Located:

You must complete Form DS-5525. This form needs a detailed description of why the additional parent is unattainable, along with any signal of efforts made to influence them. You may also need to make available auxiliary legal documents (e.g., custody orders, restraining orders, incarceration proof), conditional on the situation.

If Both Parents/Guardians Are Unavailable:

A 3rd party can relate on behalf of the child only with inscribed, certified authorization from both maternities or legal caretakers, along with facsimiles of their documents. If only one mother gives consent, the 3rd party must also present documents attesting sole custody for that parent.

Understanding unique family situations is crucial when applying for a child’s passport. Proper documentation ensures legal compliance and avoids delays. Always include court orders, consent forms, or Form DS-5525 when required. Applying for a USA Passport Application is now easier than ever. With the Online Passport Application USA service, you can complete the process from the comfort of your home. The American Passport Application Online system ensures quick and secure submissions. Whether it is your first passport or a passport renewal, everything is just a few clicks away.