What if the other parent lives far away or we're divorced?

The absent parent can complete Form DS-3053 with a notarized signature instead of appearing. If you have sole custody, bring court documents. If you can't locate the other parent, you'll need a court order or sworn statement explaining the situation.

Can I get a passport for my newborn baby?

Yes, there's no minimum age. Newborns need the same documents and process. The main challenge is getting a good passport photo - many photo services have experience with babies and will help position them properly.

Do I need to bring my child to the appointment?

Yes, children of all ages must appear in person for first-time passports. The acceptance agent needs to verify the child's identity. Even newborns must attend.

What if we need the passport urgently?

Pay the $60 expedited fee to get it in 2-3 weeks instead of 6-8 weeks. For true emergencies (travel within 2 weeks), you can make an appointment at a regional passport agency, but you'll need proof of urgent travel like flight tickets.

How to Get a Passport for Your Child for the First Time

First-time child passports require both parents to appear in person at a passport acceptance facility with the child, bring certified birth certificate, parental ID, passport photos, and $135 fee. Processing takes 6-8 weeks for routine service.

Gather required documents. Get a certified copy of your child's birth certificate (hospital copies won't work), your government-issued photo ID, and proof of your relationship to the child. If you're not the birth parent, bring adoption papers or court orders.
Get passport photos taken. Take your child to a pharmacy, post office, or photo studio for official passport photos. They cost $10-15 and must meet specific requirements: 2x2 inches, white background, taken within 6 months. Many places can handle squirmy babies.
Fill out Form DS-11. Complete the application online at travel.state.gov but don't sign it yet. You must sign in front of the acceptance agent. Print the completed form and bring it with you.
Both parents must appear together. Both parents must go to the appointment with the child. If one parent can't attend, the absent parent must provide Form DS-3053 (Statement of Consent) with their signature notarized. Single parents need to bring evidence of sole custody.
Visit a passport acceptance facility. Go to a post office, courthouse, or library that accepts passport applications. Many require appointments, especially post offices. Bring all documents, photos, and payment. The agent will verify everything and witness your signature.
Pay the fees. The passport book costs $100 plus a $35 execution fee (total $135). Pay the $100 to the State Department by check or money order, and the $35 execution fee separately to the facility (often cash only).

What if the other parent lives far away or we're divorced?: The absent parent can complete Form DS-3053 with a notarized signature instead of appearing. If you have sole custody, bring court documents. If you can't locate the other parent, you'll need a court order or sworn statement explaining the situation.
Can I get a passport for my newborn baby?: Yes, there's no minimum age. Newborns need the same documents and process. The main challenge is getting a good passport photo - many photo services have experience with babies and will help position them properly.
Do I need to bring my child to the appointment?: Yes, children of all ages must appear in person for first-time passports. The acceptance agent needs to verify the child's identity. Even newborns must attend.
What if we need the passport urgently?: Pay the $60 expedited fee to get it in 2-3 weeks instead of 6-8 weeks. For true emergencies (travel within 2 weeks), you can make an appointment at a regional passport agency, but you'll need proof of urgent travel like flight tickets.