US Passport Information for Children

United States passports traditionally feature the American eagle seal on the front cover.

When traveling internationally, children, as well as adults, are required to withhold necessary government-issued passport documentation from the United States of America. The process is initially the same as obtaining an adult passport; the only differences being in the costs of processing and parental involvement.

Proof of Relationship

Parent must bring verification of the child's relationship to parent. A birth certificate with both parents names clearly labeled is sufficient. If an original birth certificate is unavailable, adoption decrees or custody orders may serve as sufficient proof of relationship. Parents must also present proper forms of self-identification.

Photographs

Applicant must provide two identical 2 x 2-inch frontal face photographs taken within six months of application.

Citizenship

All children must provide proof of American citizenship when applying for a passport. Birth or naturalization certificates are sufficient verification of United States citizenship.

Fees

Children under age 16 must pay a $60 fee to obtain a passport as of 2010. A $25 processing fee will be added to the original $60 fee. The passport offices will accept cash, money orders, checks or credit cards to cover all application costs.

Expiration

Children passports expire every five years if the child is under age 15. If a minor is 16 years or above, the passport expiration date is 10 years from the year of application.

References

• Minors Under Age 16
• New Child Passport
• United States Postal Service: Passports

Resources

• Passports