How to Apply for a Baby Passport in the U.S.: Step-by-Step Guide and Important Considerations

March 19, 2025

How to Apply for a Baby Passport in the U.S.: Step-by-Step Guide and Important Considerations

Applying for a passport for your baby in the U.S. requires specific documents and in-person appointments. Here’s a step-by-step guide to ensure a smooth application process.

Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for a Baby Passport:

1. Gather Required Documents

Form DS-11: The official application for a U.S. passport (must be filled out but NOT signed in advance).
Proof of U.S. Citizenship: Original birth certificate or Consular Report of Birth Abroad (CRBA) if born outside the U.S.
Parental Identification: Valid U.S. driver’s license, passport, or government-issued ID.
Parental Consent: Both parents must be present, or one parent must provide a notarized Form DS-3053 if the other cannot attend.
Passport Photo: A recent 2x2 inch passport-compliant photo of the baby (light background, neutral facial expression).

2. Schedule an Appointment

Applications for children under 16 must be submitted in person at a Passport Acceptance Facility (post office, library, or clerk’s office).
Find the nearest facility at travel.state.gov.

3. Pay the Fees

Passport Book: $100 (valid for international travel).
Passport Card (optional): $15 (for land and sea travel to Canada, Mexico, and the Caribbean).
Execution Fee: $35 (mandatory for first-time applicants).
Expedited Processing (optional): Additional $60 if faster service is needed.

4. Submit Application and Wait for Processing

Standard processing time: 6-8 weeks.
Expedited processing time: 2-3 weeks (or faster with an additional fee).

Important Considerations:

Baby’s Presence is Required: The baby must be present at the appointment.
Validity: Child passports are valid for only 5 years and cannot be renewed; a new application is required after expiration.
Photo Guidelines: Babies must have eyes open, and no pacifiers, hats, or headbands are allowed.
Travel Plans: Apply well in advance of any planned travel to avoid delays.

Where to Check Passport Status:

Visit passportstatus.state.gov to track application progress.

Conclusion

Following these steps ensures a smooth and hassle-free passport application process for your baby. Preparing all required documents in advance and scheduling an early appointment will help you avoid unnecessary delays.

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