The process of applying for a child passport application can be overwhelming due to the birth certificate, parent consent, identification, photos, and the paperwork. If a document is missing, or there is an error on a form, then this will stall the process.
Fortunately, child passport requirements are straightforward, and you can prepare the necessary documents before your appointment. For children under the age of 16, the U.S. Department of State requires an in-person application for the child, usually with both the child’s parents or legal guardians.
What You Need for a Child Passport Application
When getting a passport for a minor, make sure to gather the documents to establish the child’s citizenship in the United States and the parent/guardians’ relationship to the child. A child under 16 will need:
- Completed Form DS-11
- Proof of child’s U.S. citizenship
- Evidence of the relationship between the child and parent/guardian
- Required photocopies
- One passport photo
- Applicable fees
The State Department will accept a U.S. birth certificate, Consular Report of Birth Abroad, Certificate of Citizenship or qualifying U.S. passport as proof of citizenship.
How to Complete Form DS-11 for a Minor
For children under 16, the DS 11 Passport Form is the application used. If you are looking for the passport application form DS 11, be sure to have the latest form and adhere to the guidelines.
For the DS-11 application, provide accurate information and enter the child’s details exactly as they appear on the supporting documents. Make sure to print out the form on one side and don’t sign it until the passport acceptance agent says so.
The DS-11 form for minors must be submitted in person. An adult’s passport renewal process is not suitable for children under 16 years of age because they can only renew their passport by visiting an office.
What Are the Passport Requirements for Minors?
Understanding the passport requirements for minors is especially important when both parents are not available.
If one parent is unable to attend, there may be further documentation that needs to be submitted, such as the Form DS-3053 and a photocopy of that parent’s ID. Special situations, such as applying with only one parent or when a parent is unavailable, may require court documents or other supporting paperwork.
For a passport application under 16, the child will also have to come to an authorized passport acceptance facility.
What About a U.S. Passport for a Newborn?
The requirements for obtaining a US passport for newborn children are similar to the requirements for applying for a passport when under the age of 16. Please have the child’s citizenship evidence (U.S. birth certificate) and then have the child fill out the DS-11 application and other paperwork necessary.
The newborn must be present when submitting the application.. In addition, parents should ensure the passport photo is in compliance with the current standards – infant and newborn photos can be tricky.
How Do I Get a Passport for My Daughter?
If you’re asking, ‘How do I get a passport for my daughter?’ The process is the same as it is for a son. Complete Form DS-11, gather citizenship and relationship documents, prepare the required photocopies, obtain a suitable passport photo, and bring the child to the appointment.
The passport book application fee for a child under 16 years is $100 plus $35 to accept the passport. The processing time that is presently offered for the routine service is 4-6 weeks and for the expedited service, it is 2-3 weeks, not including the mailing time.
Final Checklist Before Your Appointment
Before submitting your child passport application, check every document carefully:
- Child’s original citizenship document
- Proof of parental relationship
- Completed and unsigned DS-11
- Parents’ or guardians’ physical photo IDs
- Required photocopies
- Child’s passport photo
- Appropriate payment
- Additional consent or custody documents, if applicable
It is important to read the application carefully before your appointment, to avoid unnecessary delays. If there is a situation with custody, missing parent, or other unusual situation, please review the State Department’s requirements prior to applying.
Frequently Asked Questions
What form is used when applying for a passport for a minor?
Children under 16 generally apply using Form DS-11. The child must apply in person, and parents or guardians must provide the required consent and supporting documents.
How do I get a passport for my daughter?
Complete Form DS-11, gather citizenship and relationship documents, prepare identification and a passport photo, and submit the application in person with the required parent or guardian.
Can a newborn get a U.S. passport?
Yes. A U.S. citizen newborn can apply for a passport using the child application process. The baby must appear in person with the required parent or guardian.
What are the passport requirements for minors under 16?
Requirements generally include Form DS-11, citizenship evidence, proof of parental relationship, parent or guardian identification, photocopies, a passport photo, and required fees.
Can a child under 16 renew a passport by mail?
No. Children under 16 must apply in person each time rather than using the adult DS-82 renewal process.
Do both parents have to be present for a child passport application?
Generally, both parents or guardians must appear with the child. If one cannot appear, additional documentation may be required to establish consent or another legal basis.
What is the DS-11 application?
Form DS-11 is used for new U.S. passport applications, including applications for children under 16. It should not be signed until instructed by the passport acceptance agent.
What documents prove a child’s U.S. citizenship?
Common evidence includes a U.S. birth certificate, Consular Report of Birth Abroad, Certificate of Citizenship, or qualifying U.S. passport.
How long does a child passport application take?
Current State Department processing times are 4–6 weeks for routine service and 2–3 weeks for expedited service, not including mailing time.
Where do I submit a child passport application?
Most children under 16 apply at an authorized passport acceptance facility. If international travel is approaching, different appointment options may apply depending on the timing.