Traveling with children can be an exciting adventure, but it requires careful planning and preparation, especially when it comes to securing the necessary travel documents. One of the most critical documents for international travel is a passport. Applying for a child’s passport involves a different process than for adults, including specific requirements and steps that must be followed to ensure a smooth application process. This comprehensive guide provides a step-by-step approach to obtaining a passport for your child, ensuring you are well-prepared for your journey.
Step 1: Understand the Requirements
Before beginning the application process, it is important to understand the specific requirements for a child’s passport. Here are the key criteria:
- Age Requirement: This guide applies to children under the age of 16. Children 16 and 17 years old follow a different process.
- Parental Consent: Both parents or legal guardians must provide consent for the passport application unless one parent has sole custody.
- Proof of Relationship: Documentation proving the relationship between the child and parents/guardians is required.
Step 2: Gather Necessary Documents
Collecting all necessary documents before starting the application process will save time and reduce stress. Here’s what you need:
Proof of Citizenship
- S. Birth Certificate: An original or certified copy of the child’s birth certificate.
- Other Documents: If the child was born abroad, a Consular Report of Birth Abroad or Certificate of Citizenship may be required.
Proof of Parental Relationship
- Birth Certificate: The same document used to prove citizenship typically establishes the parental relationship.
- Adoption Decree: Required if the child is adopted.
- Court Order: Needed in cases of sole custody or guardianship.
Identification for Parents/Guardians
- Valid ID: Each parent or guardian must present a valid government-issued ID, such as a driver’s license or passport.
- Photocopy of ID: A photocopy of the front and back of each ID must be submitted.
Passport Photo
- Requirements: One passport photo of the child that meets specific requirements (2 x 2 inches, taken within the last six months, plain white or off-white background, no eyeglasses).
- Where to Get It: Many pharmacies and photo centers offer passport photo services that comply with these standards.
Completed Application Form (DS-11)
- Form DS-11: This is the application form for a U.S. passport for minors. The form can be completed online or by hand and is available on the U.S. Department of State’s website.
- Do Not Sign: The form must be signed in the presence of an authorized passport acceptance agent.
Step 3: Complete the Application Form
The DS-11 form requires detailed information. Here are some key sections you need to complete:
Personal Information
- Child’s Information: Provide the child’s full name, date of birth, place of birth, and social security number.
- Parent’s Information: Include information about both parents or guardians, such as full names, dates of birth, and places of birth.
Contact Information
- Current Address: Provide your current address, phone number, and email address.
Travel Plans
- Immediate Travel Plans: If you have any immediate travel plans, include the dates and destination countries. This information helps the passport agency prioritize your application if you need expedited processing.
Step 4: Provide Parental Consent
Both parents or legal guardians must provide consent for the passport application. Here are the scenarios and required actions:
Both Parents Present
- In Person: Both parents should appear in person to provide consent and sign the DS-11 form in front of the acceptance agent.
One Parent Present
- Notarized Consent Form: The parent who cannot appear must provide a notarized Form DS-3053 (Statement of Consent) and a photocopy of their ID.
- Proof of Sole Custody: If applicable, the parent present must provide legal documentation proving sole custody (e.g., court order).
Step 5: Submit Your Application
After completing the DS-11 form and gathering all necessary documents, you need to submit the application in person. Passport applications for minors must be submitted at a passport acceptance facility. Here’s what to expect:
Locate a Passport Acceptance Facility
- Find a Facility: Use the U.S. Department of State’s online locator tool to find a nearby passport acceptance facility. Facilities include post offices, libraries, and local government offices.
Make an Appointment
- Appointment: Some facilities require an appointment, while others accept walk-ins. It is recommended to make an appointment to avoid long wait times.
In-Person Submission
- Documents: Bring the completed DS-11 form, proof of citizenship, proof of identity, passport photo, and any additional documents.
- Sign in Front of Agent: Do not sign the DS-11 form until instructed by the acceptance agent. The agent will review your documents, administer an oath, and witness your signature.
Pay the Fees
- Fees: Passport fees for minors include the application fee and the execution fee. Check the U.S. Department of State’s website for the current fee schedule.
- Payment Methods: Fees can typically be paid by check, money order, or credit/debit card. Confirm accepted payment methods with the acceptance facility.
Step 6: Track Your Application
Once your application has been submitted, you can track its status online. This can be done through the U.S. Department of State’s website. Here’s how:
Online Status Check
- Status Tool: Use the passport application status tool on the Department of State’s website.
- Information Needed: Enter your last name, date of birth, and the last four digits of the child’s social security number to access the application status.
Processing Times
- Standard Processing: Typically takes 6-8 weeks, but can be longer during peak travel seasons or due to other delays.
- Expedited Processing: For an additional fee, expedited processing usually takes 2-3 weeks.
Step 7: Receive the Passport
Once your application is approved, the passport will be mailed to you. Here’s what to expect:
Delivery
- Separate Mailings: The passport book will be mailed separately from any supporting documents (e.g., birth certificate). You will receive two separate mailings.
- Passport Card: If you applied for a passport card as well, it will be mailed separately.
Check for Accuracy
- Verify Information: Upon receiving the passport, check that all information is correct. Verify the child’s name, date of birth, and other personal details.
Sign the Passport
- Signature: Sign the passport in the designated space on the signature page. For younger children, a parent can print the child’s name and sign their own name above it, indicating the relationship (e.g., “John Smith by Jane Smith, Mother”).
Conclusion
Applying for a child’s passport involves several steps and specific requirements, but with careful preparation and attention to detail, the process can be straightforward and efficient. If you’re having any such trouble with making your child’s passport in Delaware, New Hampshire, Philadelphia, New York, and Connecticut, get in touch with Prompt Passport Service today. They provide various passport services and make sure that the process is as easy for you as possible.