Passport Requirements for a Child

Child under the age of 16 are subject to special passport requirements. A passport application with two passport-size photos must be submitted in person to a Passport Agency. The child must arrive in person with both parents or a legal guardian. Persons living in rural areas must travel to the nearest passport agency location. See "Resources" below for a list of passport agencies. For international travel and foreign visas, schedule an appointment by contacting a local or nearby Passport Agency at least two to four weeks prior to the travel date.

Considerations

All minors must apply in person with both parents/guardians to receive a U.S. passport. If only one parent is available, bring the second parent's notarized Statement of Consent (Form DS-3053) or provide a written statement explaining why the second parent is unavailable or could not be found.

Form DS-11

Complete a Form DS-11, except for the child's signature. The child will be directed to sign the application by an acceptance agent, who will process the application and verify proof of ID as well as witness the signing of the application. If the application is signed before that time, the form will be invalid and a new application must be completed. According to the Department of State, the parent(s) or guardian must sign when instructed to do so by the acceptance agent.

Proof of Social Security Number

All applicants, including children, must have a Social Security number to apply for a U.S. passport. A Social Security card or other evidence that shows proof of the minor applicant's Social Security number is required.

Proof of Citizenship

Child applicants must provide proof of citizenship. According to the Department of State, a previously issued, undamaged U.S. passport; a certified birth certificate issued by a city, county or state; a Consular Report of Birth Abroad or Certification of Birth; a Naturalization Certificate; or a Certificate of Citizenship can be used to show proof of citizenship.

Proof of Relationship

Parents and guardians must show proof of relationship to the child applicant. According to the State Department's website, the following documents can be used to provide evidence of relationship in June 2009:
Minor's certified U.S. birth certificate with both parents' names
Minor's certified foreign birth certificate with both parents' names
Minor's report of birth abroad with both parents' names
Adoption decree with adopting parents' names
Court order establishing custody
Court order establishing guardianship
The parent/guardian must provide consent for the U.S. passport and then pay the passport fee. The passport fee schedule might vary; check the State Department's website for more details.

References

• TravelState.gov
• National Passport Information--Passport Agency Information