Can Babies Get a Passport and What You Need to Apply

The United States issues passports to newborns and infants, with specific rules that protect child security. This guide explains when a baby can obtain a passport, what documents are required, and how to complete the application efficiently. It covers consent requirements, photos, fees, processing times, and step-by-step instructions to help families prepare.

Who Can Apply For A Baby’s Passport

A biological parent, adoptive parent, or legal guardian may apply for a baby’s passport. For a child under 16, both parents or legal guardians must generally appear in person with the child, unless one parent has sole custody or there are specific court orders. If one parent cannot attend, a notarized consent form from the non-applying parent is typically required. The process is designed to verify identity, relationship, and citizenship for the child.

Documents Needed For A Baby’s Passport

Prepare in advance to avoid delays. The following items are commonly required:

• Evidence of U.S. Citizenship for the baby (original certificate of birth abroad, birth certificate, or a Consular Report of Birth Abroad, depending on circumstances).
• Evidence of Parental Relationship (baby’s birth certificate listing parents, or court order if guardianship applies).
• Photo Identification for each parent or guardian applying (valid driver’s license, passport, or state ID).
• Photograph of the baby that meets official standards (2×2 inches, white background, full face visible, neutral expression, no hats or sunglasses).
• Parental Consent forms if required (DS-3053 for a non-applying parent, or a custody document).
• Form DS-11 completed but not signed until at the passport acceptance facility.
• Proof of Social Security number for the child, if available (the SSN card or the number written on the passport application).
• Payment for the passport fee and optional expedited service.

Photograph Standards For Babies

Babies’ photos must adhere to strict guidelines. The baby should face the camera squarely with eyes open. The background must be plain white or off-white. The baby should not be wearing a hat or head covering unless for religious reasons, and the photo should not show shadows or facial obstructions. Most post offices and many auto photo services can capture a compliant baby photo on-site to reduce errors. Double-check the latest requirements before submission.

Parental Consent And Custody Considerations

For babies, both parents or legal guardians generally need to appear, unless one parent has sole legal custody or there is a court order that specifies otherwise. If one parent cannot attend, they may submit a notarized DS-3053 form or a similar authorization with a copy of their ID. Uncertain custody arrangements may require legal documentation or a court order to avoid delays. Ensuring consent documents are properly completed is vital to prevent rejection.

Where To Apply

Most applicants for a baby’s passport must apply in person at an authorized Passport Acceptance Facility, often located at post offices, libraries, or government offices. The accepting official will confirm documents, collect fees, and have both parents sign DS-11 in the presence of the agent. Applications sent by mail are not accepted for first-time child passports. Expedited options and appointment scheduling vary by location, so check the facility’s guidelines ahead of time.

Processing Times And Expedited Options

Typical processing times for first-time child passports can range from 8 to 11 weeks for routine service, depending on demand. Expedited processing is available for an additional fee and can reduce the wait to about 5 to 7 weeks. Some locations offer an even faster option with certain proof requirements and guaranteed timelines, but availability may be limited. Tracking the application using the assigned tracking number helps families anticipate the delivery schedule.

Fees You Should Budget For

Babies require specific fees that cover the passport book and, optionally, a passport card. As of the latest information, common costs include:

• Passport book for a child: a basic application fee plus the execution (acceptance) fee.
• Expedited service fee if faster processing is desired.
• Optional upgrade or mail-in services may incur additional charges.

Check the most recent fee schedule before applying, since rates can change and extra costs may apply for expedited processing or optional delivery services.

Step-By-Step Application Process

The process is designed to ensure accuracy and security for a child’s passport. The steps are outlined below:

1. Gather required documents, including proof of U.S. citizenship for the child and parental IDs for the applicants.
2. Complete Form DS-11 for the child, but do not sign until at the acceptance facility.
3. Make a same-day appointment at a Passport Acceptance Facility if possible, to streamline processing.
4. Visit the facility with the child and both parents or guardians, along with all documents and the photos.
5. Present parental consent documents as required (DS-3053 or custody orders) and have the DS-11 signed in the presence of the accepting official.
6. Pay the applicable fees and obtain the mailing instructions for the passport book (and card, if requested).
7. Receive a receipt with tracking information and monitor the application status online.

Tip: Arrive early with all documents organized in two separate folders—one for the child’s documents and one for the parents’ IDs—to minimize in-person delays.

Common Mistakes To Avoid

• Submitting an incomplete DS-11 form or missing consent documents.
• Using an old or damaged photo that does not meet standards.
• Failing to bring both parents or guardians when required, causing delays.
• Assuming mail-in submission is allowed for first-time child passports; it is not.
• Overlooking processing times and not planning travel with sufficient lead time.

What If A Passport Is Lost Or Stolen

If a baby’s passport is lost or stolen, report it to the local authorities and the U.S. Department of State. A replacement passport for a child requires a new DS-11 form, updated documents, and the appropriate fees. Begin the replacement process promptly to minimize travel disruption.

Tips For A Smooth Experience

• Prepare all documentation well in advance and verify their legitimacy.
• Schedule in-person visits at facilities known for efficient service.
• Double-check photo requirements with the facility to avoid rejections.
• Consider expedited processing if travel is imminent, and plan for possible delays.