How to get a passport for a child
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Short answer
Children under 16 must apply in person on Form DS-11 at an acceptance facility, with both parents or legal guardians present (or documented consent), proof of the child's U.S. citizenship, and proof of the parental relationship.
Key takeaways
- Passports for children under 16 are valid for 5 years and can never be renewed by mail.
- The child passport book fee is $100 plus a $35 execution fee paid to the acceptance facility.
- Both parents/guardians must consent — in person, or with a notarized Form DS-3053 from the absent parent.
- Applicants aged 16 and 17 apply on DS-11 too, but the adult fee applies and parental consent rules are lighter.
Two-parent consent
The safest route is for both parents or guardians to appear together with the child. If one parent cannot attend, that parent submits a notarized Statement of Consent (Form DS-3053) with a photocopy of their ID.
If one parent has sole legal authority, bring the court order, custody decree, or death certificate that proves it. Form DS-5525 covers exceptional circumstances where the second parent cannot be located.
Documents to bring
The child's certified U.S. birth certificate (or other citizenship evidence), a photocopy of it, both parents' photo IDs plus photocopies, one passport photo of the child, and the completed but unsigned Form DS-11.
Sign the DS-11 only in front of the acceptance agent.
Photos of babies and toddlers
The child must be alone in the frame with eyes open where possible, on a plain white background, with no other person's hands visible. Infants may be photographed lying on a plain white sheet.
Our free photo tool crops and formats a compliant 2x2 inch photo at home.