U.S. Child Passport Checklist
Children under 16 must apply in person with Form DS-11. Both parents or guardians typically participate — either both appear in person, or one appears and provides a notarized DS-3053 Statement of Consent from the absent parent.
Quick answer
You generally need DS-11 for the child (unsigned), the child's proof of citizenship, evidence of the parent-child relationship, parent/guardian photo ID, consent from both parents (in person or via DS-3053), a compliant photo of the child, and fees. The child must appear in person, and child passports are valid for 5 years.
Documents you may need
- Form DS-11 for the child — do NOT sign before the acceptance agent
- Child's proof of U.S. citizenship — usually an original or certified U.S. birth certificate
- Evidence of parent/guardian relationship — the birth certificate listing both parents typically serves this purpose
- Photo ID of the parent or guardian applying — driver's license or state ID
- Photocopy of the front and back of parent/guardian's photo ID
- Consent of both parents/guardians — both can appear in person, OR the absent parent provides a notarized DS-3053 Statement of Consent, OR you provide evidence of sole custody/parental authority
- One compliant passport photo of the child — 2×2 inch, white background, taken within the last 6 months
- Application fee (~$100 for children under 16) and execution fee (~$35) — check travel.state.gov for current amounts
Common mistakes
- Signing DS-11 before the acceptance agent witnesses it — the form becomes invalid
- Only one parent showing up without a notarized DS-3053 for the absent parent
- Bringing a photocopy of the birth certificate — only originals or certified copies are accepted
- Not knowing that child passports are valid only 5 years, not 10
- Bringing a photo that doesn't meet State Dept specs — children's photos are harder to get right (eyes open, facing camera, no pacifiers)
Official sources
- Apply for a child passport (State Dept)
- Form DS-3053 — Statement of Consent
- Current fees (State Dept)
- Photo requirements (State Dept)
- Find a passport acceptance facility
Last reviewed: June 2026
Frequently asked questions
- Does my child need to appear in person?
- Yes. Children under 16 must appear in person at a passport acceptance facility when applying.
- Do both parents need to come?
- Ideally yes, but if one parent cannot appear, the absent parent can provide a notarized DS-3053 Statement of Consent. If you have sole custody, bring evidence of that instead.
- What form do I need for a child passport?
- Form DS-11. Download it from travel.state.gov or pick it up at the acceptance facility. Do not sign it until in front of the agent.
- What is DS-3053?
- Form DS-3053 is the Statement of Consent for a child's passport. It must be notarized and is used when one parent cannot appear in person at the acceptance facility.
- How long is a child's passport valid?
- U.S. passports for children under 16 are valid for 5 years, not the 10 years issued to adults.
- Can a child passport be renewed by mail?
- No. Children under 16 must always apply in person with DS-11, even for a replacement.
This is a simplified guide. Passport requirements can change without notice. Always confirm the final documents, fees, photos, and application method on the official passport authority website before applying.