Applying for a newborn passport in the USA requires submitting Form DS-11 with proof of citizenship, parental ID, and the baby’s original birth certificate.
Essential Documents Needed for a Newborn Passport
Securing a passport for a newborn involves gathering specific documents to verify identity, citizenship, and parental authority. The most critical document is the baby’s original birth certificate. This proves U.S. citizenship and establishes the parent-child relationship. Photocopies or hospital certificates won’t suffice; the government requires an official birth certificate issued by the vital records office.
Parents or legal guardians need to provide valid photo identification such as a driver’s license or passport. Both parents must appear in person to authorize the passport issuance for their child. If one parent cannot attend, a notarized consent form (DS-3053) is necessary from the absent parent.
A completed Form DS-11, Application for a U.S. Passport, must be filled out but not signed until instructed to do so at the acceptance facility. This form is specifically for first-time applicants and minors under 16 years old.
Where to Submit Your Newborn’s Passport Application
Applications cannot be mailed in for first-time passports of minors under 16; they must be submitted in person at designated acceptance facilities. These include post offices, public libraries, and county government offices authorized by the U.S. Department of State.
Scheduling an appointment beforehand is highly recommended as many locations operate on limited hours or require appointments due to demand. During submission, both parents or guardians should be present with the child to provide consent and verify identities.
The acceptance agent will review all documents, witness signatures on Form DS-11, and collect applicable fees before forwarding the application to a regional passport agency for processing.
Newborn Passport Fees Breakdown
The total cost includes application fees and execution fees charged by acceptance facilities. Here’s a quick look:
| Fee Type | Amount | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Application Fee (Form DS-11) | $100 | Charged by U.S. Department of State for processing |
| Execution Fee | $35 | Paid to acceptance facility for handling application |
| Optional Expedited Service | $60 | Faster processing time (if requested) |
These fees are payable via check or money order; some locations accept credit cards but verifying payment methods ahead saves hassle.
The Application Process Step-by-Step
Step 1: Complete Form DS-11 Carefully
This form is available online or at acceptance facilities. Filling it out before arriving saves time but avoid signing it prematurely—the agent will instruct when to do so during submission.
Provide accurate details such as full legal names, dates of birth, and contact information. For newborns, place “N/A” in sections irrelevant to infants like previous passport numbers.
Step 2: Gather Proof of Citizenship and Parental Relationship
The original birth certificate is mandatory here. It confirms both citizenship and parental ties. If adopting or guardianship applies instead of biological parentage, legal documentation proving custody must accompany the application.
Step 3: Show Valid Parental Identification
Parents bring government-issued photo IDs like driver’s licenses or passports. Both parents should attend unless one provides notarized consent using Form DS-3053 along with a photocopy of their ID.
Step 4: Submit in Person at an Acceptance Facility
Both parents (or authorized guardian) appear with the child at an approved location during business hours or scheduled appointment times.
The agent reviews documents thoroughly, witnesses signatures on Form DS-11, collects fees, and issues a receipt confirming submission.
Step 5: Track Processing Times and Receive Passport
Standard processing generally takes six to eight weeks from submission date but can vary depending on demand and seasonality.
Expedited services reduce wait times significantly—typically within two to three weeks—but require additional fees paid upfront.
Passports arrive via mail directly to the address listed on the application form unless special delivery options were requested.
The Importance of Parental Consent and Identification Rules
Federal law requires both parents’ consent for issuing passports to minors under age 16 unless one parent holds sole legal custody documented by court order. This prevents unauthorized travel and safeguards children from potential abduction scenarios.
If only one parent is present without custody papers or notarized consent from the other parent, applications will be delayed or rejected outright until proper authorization is provided.
Parental identification must be current and valid; expired IDs often cause delays because agents cannot verify identities satisfactorily without them. Carrying multiple forms of ID can help prevent surprises during submission.
Tips for Smooth Processing Without Delays
- Avoid submitting photocopies: Original documents are required.
- Double-check forms: Errors or missing fields slow down approval.
- Schedule early appointments: Especially near holidays or travel seasons.
- Keeps receipts safe: They provide proof if issues arise during processing.
- Avoid mailing applications: First-time passports need in-person submissions only.
- If expediting: Clearly mark requests and pay additional fees upfront.
- Name consistency matters: Use names exactly as on birth certificates throughout all paperwork.
- If custody changes occur: Update legal documents before applying.
The Role of Passport Photos for Newborns
Passport photos must meet strict requirements regardless of age. For newborns:
- The photo should show a clear image of the baby’s face with eyes open if possible.
- No shadows or obstructions like pacifiers are allowed.
- The background must be plain white or off-white.
Photographers experienced with infant photos can help meet these standards more easily than DIY attempts at home using smartphones or generic cameras.
Many acceptance facilities offer photo services onsite which guarantee compliance with government specifications—saving resubmission hassles later due to rejected images.
The Validity Period of Newborn Passports Explained
Passports issued to children under age 16 remain valid for five years only—not ten years like adult passports. This shorter validity accounts for rapid changes in appearance as children grow quickly within those years.
Renewals require submitting new applications following similar steps but may allow mail-in renewals once certain conditions are met (such as previous passports still being valid).
Parents should plan accordingly if international travel occurs frequently during early childhood years since repeated renewals might become necessary depending on passport expiration dates versus planned trips abroad.
Pitfalls That Could Delay Your Newborn’s Passport Application
Common issues causing delays include:
- Mismatched names: Variations between birth certificates and parental IDs can cause confusion requiring corrections before approval.
- Lack of parental presence: Missing one parent without proper notarized consent stalls applications indefinitely.
- Poor quality photos: Blurry images or non-compliant backgrounds lead to rejections requiring retakes.
- Error-ridden forms: Missing signatures or incomplete fields force agents to return paperwork which wastes precious time.
Reviewing all materials carefully before submission prevents these setbacks effectively while ensuring faster delivery times overall.
Navigating Emergency Passport Needs for Newborns
Sometimes urgent travel arises unexpectedly—medical emergencies abroad or family crises might require faster passport issuance than standard timelines allow.
Regional passport agencies offer expedited appointments that can process applications within days if proof of urgent travel exists (like airline tickets).
Call ahead directly to regional agencies explaining your situation clearly so they can schedule priority service accordingly rather than waiting weeks through regular channels.
A Quick Recap Table: Key Points About Newborn Passport Applications
| Description | Main Requirement(s) | Tips/Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Proof of Citizenship & Parentage | Original Birth Certificate | No hospital certificates accepted; get official copy from vital records office |
| ID Verification | Bilateral Parental Photo IDs | If one parent absent submit notarized consent form DS-3053 + ID copy |
| Main Application Form | Form DS-11 (unsigned until submission) | Avoid errors; fill carefully online then print out; sign only at acceptance facility |
| Submission Location | Authorized Acceptance Facility (post office/library/etc.) | In-person only; schedule appointment early; bring child & both parents if possible |
| Fees | $100 application + $35 execution + optional $60 expedited fee | Prepare payment method ahead; check accepted forms per location |
| Photo Requirements | Passport-compliant infant photo with plain background & eyes open preferred | Use professional photographers experienced with infants when possible |
This table sums up what you need at each step so you don’t miss anything critical during your newborn’s passport application journey.
The
Key Takeaways: How Do I Apply For A Newborn Passport In The USA?
➤ Gather all required documents before applying.
➤ Both parents must usually appear in person.
➤ Submit the DS-11 application form for first-time passports.
➤ Provide proof of U.S. citizenship for the newborn.
➤ Pay the applicable passport fees at the time of application.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Documents Are Required For A Newborn Passport Application?
To apply for a newborn passport, you need the baby’s original birth certificate, proof of U.S. citizenship, and valid photo ID from the parents or guardians. Photocopies or hospital certificates are not accepted.
Both parents must provide identification and consent, either in person or via a notarized form if one parent is absent.
Where Should I Submit The Passport Application For My Newborn?
Applications for first-time passports for minors must be submitted in person at authorized acceptance facilities like post offices, public libraries, or county offices.
Scheduling an appointment ahead of time is recommended due to limited hours and high demand at many locations.
Are Both Parents Required To Be Present During The Application?
Yes, both parents or legal guardians generally must appear in person with the child to authorize the passport issuance. If one parent cannot attend, a notarized consent form (DS-3053) is required from the absent parent.
What Fees Are Involved In Getting A Passport For A Newborn?
The total cost includes a $100 application fee paid to the U.S. Department of State and a $35 execution fee charged by the acceptance facility. Optional expedited service costs an additional $60.
Payments are usually accepted by check, money order, or sometimes credit card—verify payment methods before your visit.
When Should Form DS-11 Be Signed During The Process?
The DS-11 form must be completed but not signed until instructed by the acceptance agent during your appointment. Signing it beforehand will invalidate the application.
The agent will witness your signature to ensure all procedures comply with government requirements for minors under 16 years old.