What if one parent can't come to the appointment?

The absent parent must complete Form DS-3053 (Statement of Consent) and have it notarized. You'll also need to bring a photocopy of their government-issued ID. If you have sole custody, bring court documents proving this.

Can I use my child's hospital birth certificate?

No. You need a certified birth certificate issued by the city, county, or state where your child was born. Hospital certificates and photocopies are not accepted.

How young is too young for a passport photo?

There's no minimum age. Newborns can get passports. For infants, you can lay them on a white sheet and take the photo from above. Their eyes should be open if possible, but it's not required for very young children.

When should I renew my child's passport?

Child passports expire after 5 years and cannot be renewed - you must apply for a new one using the same DS-11 process. Adult passports expire after 10 years and can be renewed by mail.

Can I expedite the application?

Yes. Expedited service costs an additional $60 and takes 2-3 weeks instead of 6-8 weeks. You can also use a private expediting service for faster processing, but expect to pay $200-400 extra depending on speed needed.

How to Apply for a Child's First Passport

Children under 16 must apply in person with both parents or guardians at an acceptance facility. Bring Form DS-11, proof of citizenship, parental ID, one passport photo, and $135 total in fees. Processing takes 6-8 weeks for routine service.

Gather required documents. Collect your child's certified birth certificate (proof of citizenship), both parents' government-issued photo IDs, and one passport photo of your child taken within 6 months. The birth certificate must be an original or certified copy - hospital certificates don't count.
Complete Form DS-11. Fill out Form DS-11 online or print and complete by hand. Do not sign it - you'll sign in front of the acceptance agent. Your child does not need to sign if under 16.
Get a passport photo. Take your child to CVS, Walgreens, or a post office for a passport photo. Cost is typically $15-20. Photo must be 2x2 inches, taken within 6 months, with white background and neutral expression.
Find an acceptance facility. Locate a post office, courthouse, or library that accepts passport applications using the State Department's facility search tool. Make an appointment if required - many locations now require appointments.
Attend appointment with both parents. Both parents must be present with valid photo ID. If one parent can't attend, they need to provide Form DS-3053 (notarized statement of consent) and a copy of their ID. Single parents need to bring legal documentation of sole custody.
Pay fees and submit. Pay $100 application fee (check or money order to U.S. Department of State) plus $35 execution fee (cash, check, or money order to the acceptance facility). Total cost is $135. The agent will review documents and process your application.

What if one parent can't come to the appointment?: The absent parent must complete Form DS-3053 (Statement of Consent) and have it notarized. You'll also need to bring a photocopy of their government-issued ID. If you have sole custody, bring court documents proving this.
Can I use my child's hospital birth certificate?: No. You need a certified birth certificate issued by the city, county, or state where your child was born. Hospital certificates and photocopies are not accepted.
How young is too young for a passport photo?: There's no minimum age. Newborns can get passports. For infants, you can lay them on a white sheet and take the photo from above. Their eyes should be open if possible, but it's not required for very young children.
When should I renew my child's passport?: Child passports expire after 5 years and cannot be renewed - you must apply for a new one using the same DS-11 process. Adult passports expire after 10 years and can be renewed by mail.
Can I expedite the application?: Yes. Expedited service costs an additional $60 and takes 2-3 weeks instead of 6-8 weeks. You can also use a private expediting service for faster processing, but expect to pay $200-400 extra depending on speed needed.