USA Passport Application: How Parents Can Apply for a Child US Passport

The U.S. Department of State provides two types of passports for American citizens, the traditional passport book and the passport card. Whether you're applying for the first time or renewing your passport in person, there are specific procedures and requirements you must follow.

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This guide outlines all the necessary steps and documentation needed to ensure your application process is smooth and successful.

Step 1: Complete the DS-11 Application Form

If you’re applying for a passport for the first time or renewing in person, you must fill out Form DS-11. Use only black ink when completing this form. It's crucial to ensure that the form is printed in full size on standard 8.5” x 11” paper. No information should be cut off or altered, or else you will be required to complete a new form.

Step 2: In-Person Appearance & Documentation Requirements

All applicants must appear in person to submit their application. Below are detailed requirements based on age and documentation status:

For Applicants Aged 16 and 17:

• If you do not possess a valid driver's license, you must appear with a parent or legal guardian who has proper identification.

• Even if you do have your own driver’s license, parental consent is strongly recommended to avoid processing issues.

For First-Time Applicants (All Ages):

• You must present a certified U.S. birth certificate issued by the Bureau of Vital Statistics or Department of Health. The birth certificate must include both parents’ full names and must have a raised, embossed, or multicolored official seal.

• If the birth certificate does not meet these criteria or does not list the parents' names, you must obtain a new one from the municipality or state where you were born.

• Other acceptable documents for proof of U.S. citizenship include a previously issued U.S. passport, a Certificate of Naturalization, a Certificate of Citizenship, or a Consular Report of Birth Abroad.

Additional Required Documents:

• One regulation passport photo: The photo must be in color, 2” x 2” in size, and taken within the last six months.

• A valid form of primary identification, such as a current driver’s license or passport. If you do not have a primary ID, you must provide two (2) secondary forms of identification.

• Your Social Security Number (SSN) is mandatory for all applicants.

Note: If you are requesting a gender marker change in your U.S. passport, additional documentation is required. Please refer to the latest information from the U.S. Department of State on this topic.

Step 3: U.S. Birth Certificate Requirements

The birth certificate you provide must meet all of the following criteria to be accepted as primary proof of U.S. citizenship:

• Full name of the applicant

• Date of birth

• Place of birth

• Full names of both parents

• An official raised, embossed, impressed, or multicolored seal from the issuing authority

• Signature of the registrar

• Date the certificate was filed with the registrar’s office (must be within one year of birth)

If your certificate does not meet these standards, you will either need to obtain a corrected version or provide secondary evidence of citizenship. Looking to apply for a US Passport or renew your existing one? Get your USA passport application processed quickly and hassle-free with our expert assistance!

Step 4: Secondary Evidence of Citizenship (If Primary Proof is Unavailable)

If you're unable to submit a qualified birth certificate or any of the primary documents listed earlier, you will need to provide multiple secondary documents to verify your U.S. citizenship.

Acceptable Forms of Secondary Evidence:

• Delayed birth certificates: These are issued more than one year after birth and typically require additional documentation to be considered valid.

• Letters of No Record: These come from the state indicating there is no birth record on file for you. They must be accompanied by early records of birth or other proof of citizenship.

• Early public or private records: These should be created within the first five years of your life and must include your name, date of birth, and place of birth. They are not acceptable when submitted alone.

• Birth affidavits: Sworn statements from individuals who witnessed your birth or have personal knowledge of the circumstances.

Examples of Early Records:

• Baptismal or religious certificates

• Hospital-issued birth certificates

• Early school records

• Family Bible records documenting birth

• U.S. Census records showing your name and place of birth

• Medical records showing post-natal care

These documents must be submitted together to provide a complete picture that supports your claim to U.S. citizenship.

Step 5: Valid Forms of Identification

To process your application, you must provide acceptable identification. This is divided into Primary ID and Secondary ID categories.

Primary Identification (acceptable on its own):

• A fully valid in-state driver’s license or enhanced driver’s license

• A valid or expired (undamaged) U.S. passport

• Certificate of Naturalization with a recognizable photo

• Certificate of Citizenship with a recognizable photo

• Military or military dependent ID

• Government employee ID (federal, state, county, or municipal)

• Valid foreign passport

• U.S. Permanent Resident Card (Green Card)

• Matricula Consular (issued by the Mexican Consulate; often used by parents of minor applicants)

• Enhanced Tribal Card or Native American tribal photo ID

• Trusted Traveler ID (such as Global Entry, SENTRI, FAST, or NEXUS cards)

Step 6: Passport Photo Services (Optional Convenience)

For your convenience, many passport application acceptance facilities offer passport photo services. These photos are taken using specialized equipment that complies with the strict requirements for both U.S. and foreign passport or visa photos.

• Cost: $15.00 for each photo session, whether it's for a U.S. or foreign passport or visa.

• Photo Requirements: Must be a recent, color photo measuring 2” x 2”, taken within the last six months, showing a full-face view against a plain white or off-white background.

Final Checklist Before Submitting Your Application

Before you submit your application, make sure you have the following:

• Completed DS-11 form printed on standard-size paper

• Certified birth certificate or acceptable proof of citizenship

• One recent passport photo that meets specifications

• Primary or two secondary forms of identification

• Social Security Number

• Any supporting documents (if applicable, such as secondary evidence or parental consent)

• Appropriate fees (check with your local passport acceptance facility for payment options)

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