If you are anything like me, you knew before you even had your child that you would need to apply for a passport soon after Baby was born.
Or maybe you’re not like me and you had no plans to apply for Baby’s passport and now you need to figure out what to do. Either way, here is how we went about this process...
As of March 23rd, 2023 routine processing for a United States Passport is 10 to 13 weeks; and expedite processing (for an additional $60) is 7 to 9 weeks. Processing times begin the day they receive your application at a passport agency, not the day you mail your application or apply for a passport at a local acceptance facility. Mail times vary across the country so...
Plan ahead and apply early.
Step 1: Fill out the Forms & Print them Out
All children under age 16 must apply for a passport in person with two parents or guardians using Form DS-11. Passports for children under age 16 are only valid for 5 years. A few important notes:
You can apply for a passport book, a passport card, or both documents but in order to travel internationally, you must have a passport book. You may request a larger passport book with 52 pages for your child, at no additional cost, by checking the 'large book' box at the top of the DS-11.
In the application, you will need to provide your child’s social security number. If your child does not have a Social Security number, you must submit a statement, signed and dated, that includes the phrase, “I declare under penalty of perjury under the laws of the United States of America that the following is true and correct: (Child's full name) has never been issued a Social Security Number by the Social Security Administration.”
Step 2: Gather and make copies of all supporting documents
Evidence of US Citizenship
Photocopy of the Evidence of US Citizenship
Documentation of both parental relationships and their consent
Photocopy of both parent/guardian IDs
Photo of Child
Check or Money Order
Step 3: Make an appointment at your local Acceptance Facility.
These locations include post offices, clerks of court, libraries, and local government offices. At this point in time (June 2023), acceptance facilities do not accept walk-in appointments. You must schedule an appointment in advance to submit your documents. We applied at our local post office and we were able to make appointments online using the USPS website at least one day in advance. You can find your local acceptance facility here.
If you are outside of the United States, please contact your nearest U.S. Embassy and Consulate for how to submit your child's documents, since processes vary.
Step 4: Go to your appointment with all of the above documents and apply!
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