Application Form
A passport application, Form DS-11: Application for a U.S. Passport, must be completed for the child. The form must include a valid Social Security Number, and should not be signed until prompted by staff at the acceptance facility (see Resources).
U.S. Citizenship
Evidence of the child's U.S. citizenship must be included with the application. Such evidence can include a birth or citizenship certificate.
Proof of Relationships
Parents or guardians must demonstrate their relationship to the child by submitting appropriate documentation. This can include a birth certificate listing parents' names, adoption decree or a court order appointing a guardian for the child.
Parent/Guardian Identification
The parent or guardian must show identification, in the form of a driver's license, passport or others, when applying for a passport in person. Also, a photocopy of all identification must be submitted with the application.
Parental Consent
Parents and guardians must provide consent for the child's passport application. This can be done in several ways, depending on the parent-child relationship and situation, such as applying in person with the child and submitting evidence of sole custody, notarized statements from an absent parent, court orders, death certificates and others.
Photos and Fees
Color passport photos are required for all passports. The photos must be identical and taken within the last six months. Fees for passports vary; consult with staff at the acceptance facility for more information (see Resources).
