Can I renew multiple children's passports at the same time?

Yes, you can submit applications for multiple children during the same appointment. Each child needs their own form and fees, but you only make one trip to the acceptance facility.

What if only one parent can attend the appointment?

The absent parent must complete Form DS-3053 and have it notarized. Alternatively, bring a certified copy of the child's birth certificate showing only one parent listed, or court documentation of sole custody.

How long are children's passports valid?

Passports issued to children under 16 are valid for 5 years. Passports for ages 16 and older are valid for 10 years. This is why renewal requirements change at age 16.

Can I use expedited service for family passport renewals?

Yes, expedited service costs an additional $60 per passport and reduces processing time to 2-3 weeks. For urgent travel within 14 days, you can make an appointment at a regional passport agency.

What happens to our old passports?

For in-person renewals, damaged passports are kept by the government. For mail renewals, your old passport is returned with the new one, but it's cancelled with holes punched through it.

How to Renew Passports for Children and Families

Child passport renewal requires both parents present or notarized consent, plus proof of relationship. Under 16s must apply in person with Form DS-11. Over 16s can use Form DS-82 by mail if their previous passport is undamaged. Plan 6-8 weeks for standard processing.

Check if your child qualifies for mail renewal. Children 16 and older can renew by mail with Form DS-82 if their previous passport is undamaged, issued when they were 16+, and issued within the last 15 years. Everyone else needs to apply in person.
Gather required documents for each child. You need the child's current passport, one passport photo, completed Form DS-11 (in person) or DS-82 (mail), and proof of relationship like birth certificate. For children under 16, both parents must be present or provide notarized Form DS-3053 consent.
Get passport photos taken. Use CVS, Walgreens, or post office services for $15-17 per set. Photos must be 2x2 inches, taken within 6 months, with white background. Children can smile but eyes must be open and looking at camera.
Complete the application forms. Fill out Form DS-11 completely before arriving at acceptance facility. Do not sign until instructed by the agent. For mail renewals (16+), use Form DS-82 and sign before mailing.
Visit acceptance facility or mail application. For in-person applications, visit post office, courthouse, or passport agency. Bring all family members applying. Pay $100 passport fee plus $35 execution fee per person. Mail renewals go to National Passport Processing Center with just the $100 fee.
Track and receive your passports. Standard processing takes 6-8 weeks. Expedited service costs extra $60 and takes 2-3 weeks. Track status at travel.state.gov. Passports arrive by mail to the address on your application.

Can I renew multiple children's passports at the same time?: Yes, you can submit applications for multiple children during the same appointment. Each child needs their own form and fees, but you only make one trip to the acceptance facility.
What if only one parent can attend the appointment?: The absent parent must complete Form DS-3053 and have it notarized. Alternatively, bring a certified copy of the child's birth certificate showing only one parent listed, or court documentation of sole custody.
How long are children's passports valid?: Passports issued to children under 16 are valid for 5 years. Passports for ages 16 and older are valid for 10 years. This is why renewal requirements change at age 16.
Can I use expedited service for family passport renewals?: Yes, expedited service costs an additional $60 per passport and reduces processing time to 2-3 weeks. For urgent travel within 14 days, you can make an appointment at a regional passport agency.
What happens to our old passports?: For in-person renewals, damaged passports are kept by the government. For mail renewals, your old passport is returned with the new one, but it's cancelled with holes punched through it.