How Do You Get a Passport for a Child?
Find out how to get a passport for a child under 16, which parents must appear, and what documents you need before the in-person appointment.
To get a passport for a child under 16, apply in person with the child, the passport application, proof of U.S. citizenship, parent or guardian identification, photo, fees, and the required parental consent. A child passport under 16 is valid for 5 years and cannot be renewed like an adult passport.
Child passport requirements
Child appears in person
Required for under-16 applications
Cannot complete entirely by mail
Proof of citizenship
Shows child is eligible
Original or certified evidence required
Parent or guardian ID
Confirms adults consenting
ID must meet State Department rules
Both-parent consent
Protects child passport issuance
Extra form if one parent cannot attend
Passport photo and fees
Completes application packet
Photo problems can delay processing
Under-16 rules differ from older teen and adult rules
Do not use adult renewal assumptions for a child under 16. The under-16 process requires in-person application and parental consent documentation.
Apply for the child passport
- 1Confirm the child is under 16 and gather citizenship evidence.
- 2Complete the passport application without signing until instructed.
- 3Gather parent or guardian IDs, consent documents, photo, and fees.
- 4Bring the child and required adults to an acceptance facility appointment.
- 5Track processing and keep copies of confirmation details.
FAQ
Do both parents have to be there for a child's passport?
For children under 16, both parents or guardians should usually appear in person or provide the required consent documentation if one cannot attend.
Can a child's passport be renewed?
No. The State Department says passports for children under 16 cannot be renewed. You apply in person for a new child passport.
How long is a child's passport valid?
A passport issued to a child under 16 is valid for 5 years.
Sources & method
We reviewed these references while writing this answer. Figures are estimates — confirm safety-critical work with a professional. Last updated June 7, 2026.
- Apply for a Child's Passport Under 16U.S. Department of State · travel.state.govSupports under-16 application requirements, in-person filing, parental consent and presence rules, and 5-year validity.
- Photo ID RequirementsU.S. Department of State · travel.state.govSupports parent or guardian identification requirements for in-person passport applications.