Does a Newborn Need a Passport? U.S. Travel Rules for Babies

Meta description: Find out when a newborn needs a passport, how to apply for a baby’s U.S. passport, what documents parents need, and how to plan for international travel.

A newborn needs a passport to travel internationally by air, just like any other U.S. citizen, including an infant traveling in a parent’s arms. A baby generally does not need a passport for domestic flights within the United States, although airlines may have their own identification or age-documentation policies. Because a child under 16 must apply in person with parental consent, families should start the passport process well before an international trip.

Can a newborn travel internationally on a parent’s passport?

No. A U.S. citizen baby needs an individual passport for international air travel. A parent’s passport does not serve as the baby’s travel document.

Does a newborn need a passport for a domestic flight?

Generally, no. TSA does not require children under 18 to show identification for domestic flights when traveling with an adult. The airline may have separate documentation policies, so parents should confirm whether proof of age is needed.

Can one parent apply for a baby’s passport?

Often, both parents or guardians must provide consent for a child under 16. If one cannot attend, the absent parent can generally submit a notarized consent form and a copy of identification. Exceptions and alternative documents depend on the circumstances and should be checked against current State Department instructions.

Can parents apply before the baby has a Social Security number?

Applicants should follow the State Department’s current instructions for the Social Security number section of Form DS-11. If the child has not been issued a number, the form provides guidance for certifying that fact. Parents should not invent or estimate a number and should contact the State Department if they are unsure how to complete the application.

Official Sources to Check Before Applying

Passport requirements and fees can change. The most reliable starting point is the U.S. Department of State’s passport information for children under 16, which explains application steps, consent, and documents. Families can also review the State Department’s passport fee schedule, current processing times, and photo requirements.

For domestic flight identification rules, consult the TSA identification guidance. For international entry requirements, check the destination country’s official government or embassy website, as well as the airline’s current infant-travel policy.