How to Get a Child Passport: The Ultimate Step-by-Step Guide for Parents
This post is all about how to get a child passport if you are a citizen of the United States.
If you’re planning an international trip with your kids, one of the first things you might wonder is: Do children need a passport? The answer is yes—and the process can feel quite overwhelming the first time you go through it.
In this guide, I’ll walk you step-by-step through everything you need to know! Including: what a passport is, when your child needs one, how to apply, what documents you’ll need, where to get a child passport photo, how long the process usually takes, and how long your child’s passport will last. My goal is to make the process simple and stress-free, so you can focus on the fun part—planning and looking forward to your upcoming family adventure! Now, let’s dive in and learn how to get a child passport!
What Is a Passport and Why Is It Required?
A passport is photo identification and proof of citizenship for a specific country. In the United States, there are two types of passports:
Passport books – valid for international travel worldwide and contain pages for visas
and
Passport cards – valid for international land and sea (NOT air) travel between the U.S., Canada, Mexico, and some Caribbean islands.
Do Children Need a Passport to Travel Internationally?
Yes. A passport is required for all travelers who will be traveling between different countries. That means whether you’re flying to Europe, taking a Caribbean cruise {related post: 7 Reasons to Cruise with Kids}, or crossing into Mexico, your child will need a valid passport book or card.
You will usually be required to show a passport when leaving one country, entering another, and upon returning to their home country. I say “usually” because there are some exceptions. For instance, when we took a ferry from Finland to Estonia, we did not need to show our passports. However, when you board a flight from the U.S. to another country, you will always need your passport to board the flight and will also need to present it to the customs agent upon arrival in your destination country. The safe bet is to always assume someone will be checking your passport no matter how you are traveling.
Note: While some cruises don’t technically require a passport, I strongly recommend getting one for yourself and your child. If an emergency comes up and you need to fly home from another country, having a passport will save you from unnecessary stress and ensure you’re not stuck without proof of U.S. citizenship.
What Age Does a Child Need a Passport?
From newborns to teenagers, children of all ages need a passport to leave the United States. Once your baby has a birth certificate, you can apply for their first passport.
Where to Apply for a Child Passport
If you’ve ever googled “where to apply for a child passport,” you may have been overwhelmed by all of the options and felt unsure which site to trust. Here’s the good news: you only need one official source—the U.S. Department of State. They handle all passport applications and mail out the passports.
👉 Click here for the U.S. Department of State’s passport application site. But, keep reading if you want to know the step-by-step details and some tips to make the process easier!
Note: Personally, I find it easiest to fill out the application form online, then print it and bring it to my child’s appointment. I have been told by a passport acceptance facility that this also speeds up the process because an application number is already assigned to your application.
How Much Does a Child Passport Cost?
As of the writing of this post, the current price for a child passport is $100 for a passport book and $15 for a passport card. There are additional acceptance facility fees around $35 per application. These of course are subject to change and you can check current passport application fees here (scroll down to #7).
Required Documents for a Child Passport
Unfortunately, getting a child’s passport is not as simple as filling out a form and mailing it in. It is a multi-step process, and there are several items you’ll need to prepare in advance such as photocopies of IDs, passport photos, application, etc. You’ll also need to make a passport appointment at a local acceptance facility and bring your prepared documents with you.
How to Apply for a Child Passport (Step-by-Step)
- Completed DS-11 passport application
- Proof of your child’s U.S. citizenship (i.e., an official stamped birth certificate — not a photocopy. Don’t worry, it will be mailed back to you)
- Proof of relationship to your child. If you aren’t listed on the birth certificate, you’ll need to provide evidence of guardianship such as a court order or adoption decree. More on this here, scroll down to #3
- Parent/Guardian presence with photo ID. Both parents must be present for the appointment and bring photo ID. If the second parent cannot attend, additional paperwork is required. You can learn how to get a child passport with one parent absent by clicking through this link and scrolling down to #5.
- Photocopies of your child’s citizenship document AND photocopies of the front and back of both parents’/guardians’ photo IDs. Note: you need both the original and the photocopies.
- Passport photo of your child. Some acceptance facilities take photos for an additional charge. I find this is the easiest and most convenient method. If you prefer not to do it at the acceptance facility or they don’t provide that option, you’ll need to have one taken at a pharmacy or other photo service. You could also attempt to take a photo yourself, but be sure to review the official child passport photo requirements here first.
- Payment. You’ll need to pay for two services. Along with your child’s application, include a check or money order payable to the “U.S. Department of State.” Include your child’s name and date of birth in the memo. Note: If applying for multiple children, a separate check is preferred, but a combined check is usually accepted. You’ll also need to pay the acceptance facility separately for their services. Each facility accepts different payment methods, so check ahead.
The acceptance facility will review your application, ensure everything is correct, staple the documents together, and mail it on your behalf. After this is complete and the U.S Department of State has received your application, you can check your child’s passport application status here.
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How Long Does It Take to Get a Passport?
As of the writing of this blog, the current routine passport processing time is 4–6 weeks, which is actually quite fast! Even though processing is currently quick, I recommend applying at least 3 months before your trip to allow for any delays. Keep in mind that the processing time does not include mailing/shipping.
If you’re traveling within 6 weeks, you can opt to expedite the process for an additional fee.
If you’re traveling within 14 days, you can make an appointment at a passport agency, though they aren’t offered everywhere. (I once had to do this when I realized my passport had expired just 72 hours before a trip—it was stressful, but I walked out with a new one the same day!)
How Long Is a Child Passport Valid?
For kids under 16, a passport is valid for 5 years.
Keep in mind: many countries require your passport to be valid for 3–6 months after your travel dates, so don’t wait until the last minute to renew.
When it’s time to renew your child’s passport, you’ll go through this same process again (children’s passports can’t be renewed by mail like adult ones).
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Passport Application Tips
Here are a few child passport application tips to keep in mind for a smooth application process:
- Apply early (at least 3 months before travel)
- Double-check that you have originals + photocopies of all documents
- Take passport photos at the passport acceptance facility if possible to streamline the process
- Set digital calendar reminders for when your child’s passport will expire, so you don’t forget to renew
I hope you found this post about how to apply for a child passport helpful. Think of it as a quick family travel passport guide you can return to whenever you’re planning an international trip with kids. Having your child’s passport ready well in advance makes family travel so much smoother!
This post was all about how to get a child passport if you are a citizen of the United States, so you can be prepared for your next family adventure.
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