US Passport for Minors: How the Application Process Differs

When it comes to traveling internationally with children, the one vital document that parents or guardians must secure is a U.S. passport for the minor. However, unlike the relatively straightforward process for adults, the application process for obtaining a passport for a child under the age of 16 involves additional steps, requirements and/or documentation. Understanding these differences is important to having a smooth application process and avoiding delays.

1. The Importance of Both Parents’ Consent

One of the most significant differences in the passport application process for minors is the requirement for both parents or legal guardians to provide consent. This rule is in place to prevent international child abduction and ensures that both parents are aware of and approve of their child obtaining a passport and travelling.

• If Both Parents Are Available: If both parents are available, they must either appear together with the child at the passport acceptance facility at the time of sealing your documents.
• If Only One Parent is Available: Provide a notarized Form DS-3053 (Statement of Consent) if only one parent can be present at the acceptance agent.
• If One Parent Has Sole Legal Custody: In cases where one parent has sole legal custody, they must provide evidence of this custody arrangement, such as a court order or the child’s birth certificate listing only one parent.
• If One Parent Cannot Be Located or Is Deceased: If a parent cannot be located, is deceased, or is otherwise unavailable, the applying parent must submit relevant legal documents, such as a death certificate or a Form DS-5525 (Statement of Exigent/Special Family Circumstances), to explain the situation.

2. Required Documents for Minor Passport Applications

Adults need to provide proof of citizenship and identity, minors require additional documentation that verifies both their citizenship and their relationship to the applying parent or guardian.

• Proof of U.S. Citizenship: Acceptable documents include a U.S. birth certificate, a consular report of birth abroad, a certificate of naturalization, or a certificate of citizenship. The original document or a certified copy must be submitted with the application.
• Proof of Parental Relationship: The most common document used for this purpose is the child’s birth certificate, which lists the names of both parents. If the birth certificate does not reflect the current legal guardianship status, additional court orders or adoption decrees may be required.
• Parental Identification: Both parents or guardians must present valid identification, such as a driver’s license or passport. If one parent is submitting a notarized Form DS-3053, a photocopy of their ID must be included with the form.

3. Passport Application Form and Fees for Minors

For minors, the application process requires the completion of Form DS-11, which is the same form used for first-time adult applicants. However, there are some nuances in how the form must be filled out for minors.

• Form DS-11: This form must be completed but not signed before arriving at the passport acceptance facility. Both parents or guardians, along with the minor, must sign the form in the presence of an authorized passport acceptance agent.
• Passport Fees: The cost of obtaining a passport for a minor includes a passport book fee and an acceptance facility fee. As of 2024, the total cost for a minor’s passport book is $135, with an additional $30 for a passport card if desired. Note that these fees are subject to change, so it’s advisable to check the latest fee schedule on the U.S. Department of State’s website before applying.

4. Where to Apply

Unlike adult renewals, which can often be done by mail, all passport applications for minors must be submitted in person at an authorized passport acceptance facility. These facilities include designated post offices, libraries, and some local government offices.

• In-Person Submission: The child, along with both parents or guardians, must appear in person to submit the application. This requirement is mandatory, even if the minor is a newborn or infant.
• Passport Acceptance Agents: At the facility, an authorized passport acceptance agent will review the application, verify the identities of the parents or guardians, and ensure that all documents are in order before submitting the application to the U.S. Department of State.

5. Processing Times and Expedited Services

Processing times for minors’ passports can vary depending on the time of year and demand. Typically, it takes 8-11 weeks for a passport to be processed and mailed. However, expedited processing, which reduces the processing time to 3 weeks, is available for an additional fee.

• Expedited Services: If the passport is needed urgently, parents can opt for expedited services, which includes faster processing and overnight return delivery. This is especially useful for families who have upcoming travel plans.
• Tracking the Application: Parents can track the status of the application online using the locator number provided at the time of submission.

6. Validity and Renewal

One final critical difference is the validity period of passports issued to minors. Unlike adult passports, which are valid for 10 years, passports for minors under 16 are only valid for 5 years. Because of this shorter validity period, parents need to be mindful of expiration dates and plan for renewals well in advance of any planned international travel.

• Renewal Process: When renewing a minor’s passport, the process is similar to the initial application, requiring the same in-person appearance, documentation, and parental consent.