Under 16 vs 16-17: different rules
| Under 16 | 16-17 | |
|---|---|---|
| Form | DS-11 | DS-11 |
| Validity | 5 years | 10 years |
| Total fee | $135 | $165 |
| Child present? | Yes, required | Yes, required |
| Parent consent | Both parents | One parent aware |
Children under 16 — the both-parent rule
U.S. law requires both parents or legal guardians to consent to a child's passport. In practice:
- Best case: both parents attend the appointment with the child
- One parent absent: absent parent signs Form DS-3053 (Statement of Consent) in front of a notary + provides ID photocopy
- Sole custody: bring the court order or birth certificate listing one parent
- Absent parent unreachable: Form DS-5525 (special circumstances) — approval is discretionary
- Deceased parent: certified death certificate
Documents checklist (under 16)
- Form DS-11 (unsigned — sign in front of agent)
- Child's certified birth certificate (proves citizenship + parental relationship)
- Both parents' photo IDs + photocopies
- One passport photo of the child (see baby photo rules)
- $100 application + $35 execution fee
Teens 16-17
Teens apply with DS-11 but get a full 10-year adult passport. Only one parent needs to show "parental awareness" — either by attending, signing the form, or providing a signed note + ID copy. The teen's own driver's license works as photo ID.
Family travel
Recommended Service
Child passport urgently?
Family emergency or last-minute trip? Couriers handle minor passports too — including the extra consent paperwork that trips up most parents.
Secure application Fast processing
Expedite child's passport
via RushMyPassport — official partner
Renewing a child's passport
There is no renewal for under-16 passports — every application is a fresh DS-11 in person. Once your child turns 16, their next passport is a 10-year adult book.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do babies need passports?
Yes — every U.S. citizen, including newborns, needs their own passport for international air travel. There is no minimum age and children cannot be added to a parent's passport.
What if the other parent won't consent?
Without both parents' consent you need sole legal custody documentation, a court order specifically permitting passport issuance, or Form DS-5525 for special circumstances (approval is discretionary).
How long is a child's passport valid?
5 years for children under 16. Passports for applicants 16 and older get the standard 10-year validity.
Can a child travel internationally with one parent?
Yes, but many countries and airlines require a notarized consent letter from the absent parent plus a copy of their ID. Check your destination's rules — some countries enforce this strictly.
Does my child need to be at the appointment?
Yes — children under 16 must appear in person with both parents (or documented consent). Even infants must attend.