What if I can't get both parents there?

The absent parent must complete Form DS-3053 with notarization, or you need sole custody documentation, a court order naming you as guardian, or a certified death certificate if the other parent is deceased.

How young is too young for a passport photo?

There's no minimum age. Newborns can get passports. For very young babies, they can lie on a white sheet with eyes open (if possible) and looking at the camera.

Can I use my child's hospital birth certificate?

No. You need a certified copy from the vital records office where your child was born. Hospital certificates are not accepted for passport applications.

What if my child's name has changed since birth?

Bring legal documentation of the name change, such as adoption papers or court orders. The passport will be issued in the child's current legal name.

How long is a child's passport valid?

Children under 16 get passports valid for 5 years. Once they turn 16, they can apply for adult passports valid for 10 years.

How to Get Your Child's First Passport

Getting a child's first passport requires both parents to appear in person with the child at a passport acceptance facility, bringing proof of citizenship, ID, parental relationship documents, and paying $135 total in fees. The process takes 6-8 weeks for routine service.

Gather required documents. You need proof of U.S. citizenship (certified birth certificate), photo ID for both parents, evidence of parental relationship (birth certificate listing both parents), and Form DS-11. If only one parent can attend, bring Form DS-3053 notarized consent from the absent parent.
Get a compliant photo. Take a 2x2 inch passport photo within the last 6 months. Many locations like CVS, Walgreens, or UPS stores offer this service for $15-20. Babies can lie on a white sheet, and toddlers can sit in a chair with someone behind them cropped out.
Find a passport acceptance facility. Locate the nearest post office, library, or courthouse that accepts passport applications using the State Department's facility search tool. Many require appointments, so call ahead. Passport agencies are only for emergencies requiring travel within 14 days.
Apply in person with your child. All three must appear together: both parents and the child. Bring all documents, the photo, and payment. The agent will review documents, witness signatures, and collect everything. Your child doesn't need to do anything specific.
Pay the fees. Total cost is $135: $100 application fee (check or money order to U.S. Department of State) plus $35 execution fee (separate check, cash, or card to the facility). Add $60 for expedited service if you need it within 5-7 weeks.
Track and receive. You'll get a receipt with tracking information. Standard processing takes 6-8 weeks, expedited takes 5-7 weeks. The passport arrives by mail to the address you provided on the application.

What if I can't get both parents there?: The absent parent must complete Form DS-3053 with notarization, or you need sole custody documentation, a court order naming you as guardian, or a certified death certificate if the other parent is deceased.
How young is too young for a passport photo?: There's no minimum age. Newborns can get passports. For very young babies, they can lie on a white sheet with eyes open (if possible) and looking at the camera.
Can I use my child's hospital birth certificate?: No. You need a certified copy from the vital records office where your child was born. Hospital certificates are not accepted for passport applications.
What if my child's name has changed since birth?: Bring legal documentation of the name change, such as adoption papers or court orders. The passport will be issued in the child's current legal name.
How long is a child's passport valid?: Children under 16 get passports valid for 5 years. Once they turn 16, they can apply for adult passports valid for 10 years.