Do both parents need to be there?
Yes, in most cases. The State Department requires both parents or guardians to approve a passport for a child under 16. The simplest way is for both to come with the child, each with a physical photo ID.
What if one parent cannot come?
- The absent parent signs Form DS-3053, the Statement of Consent, in front of a notary.
- Include a photocopy of the photo ID they showed the notary.
- Submit it within 90 days of the notarization.
- Electronically notarized forms are accepted where state law allows, as a printed copy.
Other situations, such as sole custody, need different documents. Call us and we will tell you exactly what to bring.
What should you bring for a child passport?
- Form DS-11, filled out but not signed until you are asked to sign.
- Proof of the child's U.S. citizenship, such as a certified birth certificate.
- Proof that lists both parents, such as that birth certificate.
- A physical photo ID for each parent, plus photocopies.
- One passport photo of the child. We take it in our office.
- The child's Social Security number, if one was issued.
How much is a child passport in 2026?
| Fee | Amount |
|---|---|
| Child passport book | $100 |
| Child passport card | $15 |
| Acceptance fee | $35 |
| Expedited service (optional) | $60 |
| 1-3 day return delivery (optional) | $26.87 |
A child's passport is valid for 5 years and cannot be renewed, so each new one goes through this same process.
Child passport questions
Can one parent apply for a child's passport alone?
Only with the other parent's notarized Form DS-3053, or with other documents the State Department accepts, such as proof of sole custody.
How long is a child passport valid?
5 years. Passports for children under 16 cannot be renewed.
Does a 16 year old need both parents?
No. Applicants who are 16 or 17 apply on DS-11 with their own ID and only need to show that one parent is aware of the application.
Sources
Want us to handle it?
Call (469) 567-8789 or visit our Arlington office on N Cooper St. We check your documents and expedite your application.
Call (469) 567-8789Premier Passports is a private expediting company, not affiliated with the U.S. Department of State. You can apply directly with the government.