Passport for Kids Under 16: A Parent's Guide to Child Passports

Parents should apply as early as possible to avoid travel disruptions, especially during busy travel seasons or if expedited processing might be needed. Some embassies, visa offices, or border crossings also require that a passport be valid for six months beyond the return date, making advance planning even more important.

It's recommended to apply for your child's passport at least 3–4 months before any planned travel. Standard passport processing can take 6–8 weeks, and that doesn't include mailing time. If you opt for expedited service, processing may take about 2–3 weeks—but appointments, document collection, and scheduling still require time.

Unexpected delays can happen, especially if any required documents are missing or incomplete. Starting early helps ensure you have time to resolve issues without added stress.

Teenagers aged 16 or 17 fall into a transitional category. While they're not considered full adults under passport law, they don't follow the exact same rules as younger children. Teens must apply in person using the same DS-11 form, but typically only one parent or guardian needs to be present to provide consent.

They must show they have their own identification—such as a driver's license or learner's permit—and parental awareness of the application is still required. If the teen doesn't have ID, a parent's identification and co-signed statement may be needed. Like adult passports, teen passports are valid for 10 years.

To prove your child is a U.S. citizen, you must submit one of the following original documents (not photocopies):

• A U.S. birth certificate (issued by the city, county, or state)
• A Consular Report of Birth Abroad (Form FS-240)
• A Certificate of U.S. Citizenship
• A Certificate of Naturalization

Hospital-issued birth certificates and photocopies are not accepted. If the document is not in English, an official translation must accompany it.

You must also show documentation that confirms your legal relationship to the child. Acceptable options include:

• The child's U.S. birth certificate (if it lists parent names)
• Adoption decree
• Court order establishing custody or guardianship
• Consular Report of Birth Abroad that includes parent names

These documents should be originals or certified copies. They will be returned after processing.

Both parents or guardians must present valid photo identification at the appointment. Acceptable forms include:

• U.S. passport (current or expired)
• Valid driver's license
• Government employee ID
• U.S. military ID
• Permanent resident card (Green Card)

Bring both the original ID and a photocopy of the front and back of each ID used.

For children under 16, both parents or legal guardians must give consent. If both parents cannot attend the in-person appointment, you must follow one of these alternative procedures:

• One parent present: The absent parent must complete and notarize Form DS-3053, giving consent for the child's passport application. A copy of the ID used during notarization must also be submitted.
• Sole custody: If only one parent has legal custody, they must bring official documentation showing sole authority. This might include a court order, death certificate, or a birth certificate listing only one parent.
• Special cases: In situations where a parent's whereabouts are unknown, consult with a passport acceptance facility ahead of time. Additional documentation may be required.

Processing times for a child's passport depend on the service level you choose and how you submit your application. While routine government processing typically takes several weeks, families facing tight travel timelines often need a faster, more reliable option.

Routine processing.

Standard passport processing through the U.S. Department of State takes about 6 to 8 weeks, excluding mailing time. This is the most cost-effective method, but it requires planning well in advance—especially during peak travel seasons when delays are common.

Important reminders:

• Mail delays can extend turnaround time.
• Any missing or incorrect documents can result in additional processing time.
• Routine service is not ideal for families with upcoming international travel.

For families who need a child's passport quickly, A Briggs offers expedited passport processing services that are faster and more streamlined than government options. Depending on your location and travel date, A Briggs can help you secure a passport in as little as one business day.

Through A Briggs' child passport service, you benefit from:

• Fast turnaround times (as quick as 1–2 days)
• Expert guidance to ensure application accuracy
• Document pre-checks to avoid delays or rejections
• White-glove service to help manage every step of the process

This service is ideal if:

• You're traveling within a few weeks
• You've discovered your child's passport has expired or is missing
• You prefer assistance navigating the complex requirements for minors

You can explore available expedited timelines and pricing by visiting A Briggs' children's passport services page.

While government expedited service typically takes 2 to 3 weeks (plus mailing time), A Briggs provides significantly faster options—along with personalized support from experts in children's travel documentation.