Traveling With a Minor: Passport Rules Every Parent Should Know

All children, including infants and newborns, must have their own passport to travel internationally by air. There is no exception for children traveling with parents. Key facts about child passports: - Valid for 5 years (vs. 10 years for adults) - Cannot be renewed by mail — both parents must apply in person using Form DS-11 - Requires proof of citizenship, proof of relationship, and both parents' IDs

For children under age 16, **both parents or legal guardians must appear in person** with the child at a passport acceptance facility. This is a strict requirement designed to prevent international parental abduction. #

- Valid government-issued photo ID - Photocopy of the front and back of that ID #

- The acceptance agent will review all documents - Both parents will sign Form DS-11 in front of the agent - The agent will administer an oath to the parents - You pay the fees and submit the application

If one parent cannot be at the appointment, you have several options: #

The absent parent must: 1. Complete Form DS-3053 2. Have it **notarized** 3. Submit a photocopy of the front and back of their ID with the form The notarization must be less than 3 months old. Many UPS stores, banks, and libraries offer notary services for $5-15. #

If one parent has sole legal custody, submit: - A court order granting sole legal custody - A court order specifically authorizing passport issuance - The death certificate of the other parent (if applicable) - A declaration of incompetence for the other parent (if applicable) #

If you cannot reach the other parent, you must submit Form DS-5525 (Statement of Exigent/Special Family Circumstances) explaining why you cannot obtain consent. Include any documentation supporting your claim.

Beyond passports, some countries and airlines require additional documentation when a child travels with only one parent or with non-parents. #

- **Notarized consent letter** from the absent parent authorizing travel - Copy of the child's birth certificate showing both parents - Contact information for the absent parent - Copy of the parents' IDs #

If grandparents, relatives, or friends are traveling with your child, they should carry: - A notarized consent letter from both parents - Copies of both parents' IDs - The child's birth certificate - Contact information for both parents

If your child's name has changed since their birth certificate was issued (due to adoption, court order, etc.), bring the legal documentation of the name change to the passport appointment.

When your child's passport expires (after 5 years), you must apply in person again using Form DS-11. The process is the same as the first application — both parents must appear (or provide consent documentation).

If your child's passport is lost or stolen, you must: 1. Report it immediately by calling 1-877-487-2778 2. Complete Form DS-64 (Statement Regarding a Lost or Stolen Passport) 3. Apply for a replacement using Form DS-11 with both parents present 4. Pay all applicable fees

If your child holds dual citizenship, they must enter and exit the United States using their U.S. passport. Some countries also require their citizens to enter using that country's passport. Check the requirements for both countries before travel.