How to Obtain a Child's Passport

With new security measures being passed every year, your children should have their own passports. It is beneficial for all U.S. citizens to have this form of identification while traveling abroad. It takes several weeks to get them, so don't procrastinate. Follow these steps.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

1. Download the form you need for a new child's passport from the official government Web site (see the Resources section below). Most people will use form DS-11 if their children don't have previous passports. Fill out the forms at home before you go to the post office.
2. Search this same Web site to find the closest post office in your town that processes passports. Not all offices provide this service. Also note the times that this facility takes passport applications. Some require an appointment.
3. Bring your child. They must be present at the time of processing the passport.
4. Have your child's pictures taken at your local post office if they provide that service. Most drugstores with photo services as well as photo stores can also take passport photos, but regulations for these pictures are very specific, and you will encounter delays if the photo doesn't meet the regulations.
5. Bring a certified birth certificate along with your application. This shows proof of your child's citizenship. You also must prove that you are this child's parent or guardian. A certified birth certificate is the easiest form of proof that satisfies both requirements.
6. Make it a family afternoon. Both parents or guardians and the child must be present if your child is under 14. If that is not possible, one parent can bring the child with a notarized form DS-3053, which documents the other parent's permission. Other options for special circumstances are available; call the government passport office at [phone] for more information.