Can I expedite a child's passport if only one parent is available?

Yes, but the absent parent must complete and notarize Form DS-3053 (Statement of Consent). If you have sole custody, bring certified court documents proving this.

What if I need the passport faster than 2-3 weeks?

For travel within 2 weeks, contact a regional passport agency for an emergency appointment. You'll need proof of urgent travel like airline tickets and may need to travel to the nearest regional office.

Do I need an appointment for expedited service?

Yes, most acceptance facilities require appointments and many are booked weeks in advance. Call immediately when you know you need expedited service.

Can I expedite a passport renewal for my child?

No, children under 16 cannot renew passports by mail. All child passports require new applications with both parents present, regardless of whether it's a first-time or replacement passport.

How to expedite passport applications for children

Expedited child passport processing takes 2-3 weeks instead of 6-8 weeks and costs an additional $60 plus overnight shipping fees. You must apply in person at an acceptance facility with both parents or legal guardians present, plus notarized consent if one parent cannot attend.

Gather required documents before applying. You need the child's certified birth certificate, both parents' IDs, a completed DS-11 form (do not sign it yet), one passport photo, and payment. If one parent cannot attend, get Form DS-3053 notarized by the absent parent.
Schedule an appointment at a passport acceptance facility. Call ahead to book an appointment at a post office, library, or courthouse that accepts passport applications. Many locations are booked 2-3 weeks out, so schedule as soon as possible.
Apply in person with both parents present. Both parents and the child must appear together. Bring all documents, pay the $130 application fee plus $60 expedite fee plus $19.53 for overnight delivery. Sign the DS-11 form in front of the acceptance agent.
Request overnight return delivery. Pay the additional $19.53 for overnight return delivery to ensure you receive the passport as quickly as possible. Standard delivery adds 1-2 days to processing time.
Track your application online. Use the tracking number provided to monitor status at travel.state.gov. Expedited applications typically process within 2-3 weeks from the date received at the processing center.

Can I expedite a child's passport if only one parent is available?: Yes, but the absent parent must complete and notarize Form DS-3053 (Statement of Consent). If you have sole custody, bring certified court documents proving this.
What if I need the passport faster than 2-3 weeks?: For travel within 2 weeks, contact a regional passport agency for an emergency appointment. You'll need proof of urgent travel like airline tickets and may need to travel to the nearest regional office.
Do I need an appointment for expedited service?: Yes, most acceptance facilities require appointments and many are booked weeks in advance. Call immediately when you know you need expedited service.
Can I expedite a passport renewal for my child?: No, children under 16 cannot renew passports by mail. All child passports require new applications with both parents present, regardless of whether it's a first-time or replacement passport.