USA Passport Application: Simple Steps to Get a Passport for Your Child

USA Passport Application: Whether you’re a first-time parent or have navigated this path before, securing a passport for a minor can be a complex journey. A small error in the paperwork might cost you precious time and potentially hundreds of dollars, especially if you’re racing against a travel deadline. You might be wondering: How much will this cost? We’ll handle the entire passport application or renewal process for you; no guides are needed. Submit your documents seamlessly to ensure a smooth USA Passport Application experience. We’ve covered you from the USA Passport Renewal Application to the correct Passport Application Form USA. Whether it’s your first submission or a renewal, your Application for a US Passport will be error-free and processed swiftly.

What documents do I need? Where do I start? Fortunately, this comprehensive guide walks you through every detailed stage of obtaining a passport for your child, ensuring the process is as clear and stress-free as possible.

Who Qualifies for a Child Passport?

Just because someone is under 18 doesn’t necessarily mean they fall into the child passport category. According to US regulations, only individuals younger than 16 years old are eligible for what’s officially classified as a child passport. These passports are valid for five years and differ from adult passports in several ways, including the application procedure and renewal process.

USA Passport Application: Which Passport Form Should Be Completed?

Children under 16 must submit the DS-11 application form. This form cannot be submitted by mail or online. Instead, the applicant and both parents or legal guardians must appear in person at an authorized passport acceptance location. For those aged 16 or 17, the DS-11 form is still typically required unless they already hold a 10-year adult passport and are merely looking to renew. In that scenario, they would use the DS-82 form, which is eligible for submission by mail. The DS-82 is strictly for renewals and does not apply to first-time applicants.

Applying for a Passport for Children Under 16: Step by Step

USA Passport Application: Once you’re clear on eligibility and the appropriate forms, you’ll need to gather necessary documentation and follow these 10 critical steps to ensure your child’s application is approved without delay.

1.      Complete the DS-11 Application Form

This form must be filled out but not signed until instructed by an official passport acceptance agent. This official will verify the applicant’s and parents’ identities before requesting a signature to finalize the documentation.

2.      Provide Proof of US Citizenship

You must present one original or certified paper copy of any of the following documents:

• • A valid or expired, undamaged US passport

• • US birth certificate

• • Consular Report of Birth Abroad (CRBA)

• • Certificate of Citizenship

Each of these documents proves the child’s American nationality.

3.      Submit a Photocopy of the Citizenship Proof

USA Passport Application: Alongside the original citizenship proof, you must supply a clear photocopy of both the front and back of the document. These copies should be:

• • Printed in black and white

• • On standard 8.5” x 11” white paper

• • Single-sided and legible

Important Note: In some states, it’s illegal to photocopy birth certificates. If you’re applying in one of these states, you’ll need to submit an additional certified original instead of a photocopy.

4.      Establish Parental Relationship

Documents that confirm the legal relationship between the parent(s)/guardian(s) and the child must be included. These may consist of:

• • US birth certificate

• • Consular Report of Birth Abroad

• • Foreign birth certificate

• • Adoption papers

• • Custody agreements or divorce decrees

These documents must list the name(s) of the legal parent(s) or guardian(s).

5.      Present a Valid Government Issued ID

Each parent or guardian must show an accepted form of ID, such as:

• • State driver’s license

• • Military ID

• • Government-issued ID card

• • Permanent resident card

Refer to the State Department’s website for the full list of acceptable identification.

6.      Provide a Photocopy of Your Identification

USA Passport Application: You must also submit a photocopy of the front and back of the ID provided in Step 5. The photocopy should be:

• • Single-sided

• • In black and white

• • On standard 8.5” x 11” paper

• • Not resized or altered in any way

Need to renew my passport or apply for a passport? Our USA Passport Application service makes it easy to apply USA passport and meet all Apply a USA passport. Whether you need passport renewal, a replacement for a lost passport, or a stolen passport, we’ve got you covered. Follow the Travel State passport guidelines and apply for is passport to get started today!

7.      Demonstrate Parental Consent

USA Passport Application: This stage can be particularly challenging. The US government mandates that both legal guardians give their consent for a minor to obtain a passport. The easiest route is for both parents or guardians to appear in person. If this isn’t possible, here are the alternative options: One Parent Missing? The absent parent must complete a DS-3053 Statement of Consent form and have it notarized. A copy of the front and back of the ID presented to the notary must be submitted along with the form. Depending on your location, the notarization might need to be done at a US embassy or consulate. One Parent Unavailable or Unreachable? The present parent should fill out the DS 5525 Statement of Exigent or Special Family Circumstances. They must also submit supporting documents, such as a restraining order, incarceration order, or custody documentation. Only One Parent Holds Legal Authority? USA Passport Application: Provide official proof, such as a court ruling, sole custody documentation, or an adoption certificate listing only one parent. Neither Parent Can Attend? A third party must present a notarized authorization letter from both parents, along with copies of their IDs.

8.      Submit a Compliant Passport Photo

Ensure the child’s photo meets all official requirements. It must be:

• • Taken within the last six months

• • In color, with a white background

• • Sized at 2” x 2”

• • Featuring a neutral expression and both eyes open

Never attach or staple the photo to the application. For help getting the perfect photo, check out our companion guide: Tips for a Great Passport Photo.

9.      Understand the Associated Fees

There are two separate fees involved: Government Processing Fee: Payable by check or money order to “US Department of State”

• • Passport Book: $100

• • Passport Card: $15

• • Both: $115

Acceptance Agent Fee: USA Passport Application: A separate $35 payment, typically required at the acceptance location. This may be payable via check, card, or cash, depending on the facility.

10.  Submit the Application in Person

You’ll need to physically visit a passport acceptance facility with the child and both parents or legal guardians. These facilities often include:

• • Local post offices

• • Clerk of court offices

• • County or city government buildings

• • Certain public libraries or universities

Use the US State Department’s facility locator tool to find a center near you. The tool provides operating hours, appointment options, available photo services, and contact info.

Processing Times: When Will You Receive the Passport?

Standard processing takes approximately 6 to 9 weeks from the date your application arrives at a passport center, not the day you submitted it at a facility. If you’re in a time crunch, consider these faster options: Expedited Processing: For an additional $60, you can shorten the timeline to 3 to 5 weeks. You must provide proof of international travel within 14 days to qualify.

Private Expediting Services: Companies like The USA Passport Application offer even faster turnarounds, sometimes delivering a passport in as few as 3 business days. Locations include Miami, Orlando, Tampa, and Hollywood. Applying for a passport for your child may feel overwhelming, but with the right preparation, it’s entirely manageable. Use this checklist to stay organized and avoid common pitfalls so you and your family can focus on what matters most: making unforgettable memories on your travels. We’ll handle the entire USA Passport Application or renewal process for you; no guides are needed. Submit your USA Passport Renewal Application, verify documents, and access the correct Passport Application Form USA seamlessly. Whether it’s your first submission or a renewal, our service ensures your Application for Passport USA is error-free and processed swiftly. Focus on packing; we’ll take care of the paperwork!