Can an Infant Get a Passport? | The Real Steps

Yes, infants and newborns can get a U.S. passport.

You might assume a passport is something a baby doesn’t need until they’re older, but U.S. law requires every citizen — including newborns — to carry a valid passport for international air travel. That day-old infant strapped into a car seat needs the same document you do.

The good news is the process is straightforward when you know the rules. This guide covers required documents, the application steps, photo tips, and typical timelines. The key point: both parents or legal guardians must apply in person with the baby.

How a Baby’s Passport Application Differs

For adults, renewing a passport can be done by mail. Children under 16 cannot renew using Form DS-82 — they must submit Form DS-11 in person. This rule applies to infants, too, even if they’ve never had a passport before.

The in-person appearance allows a government employee to verify the child’s identity and citizenship directly. It also ensures both parents or guardians are aware of and authorize the application, which helps prevent international parental abduction.

Most passport acceptance facilities, such as post offices, can handle infant applications. You’ll need to schedule an appointment for the whole family to appear together.

Why the In-Person Rule Surprises Parents

Many families expect to mail in an application like adults can. But the State Department requires in-person appearances for children under 16 for several reasons that make sense once you hear them.

• Both parents must authorize: Both parents or legal guardians must sign the application in front of an acceptance agent. This confirms consent for the child to receive a passport.
• Proof of relationship is checked on site: The agent examines the birth certificate and parent IDs to confirm the parental link, which reduces fraud.
• Photos are reviewed live: Infant photos have special rules (eyes closed is okay), and an agent can quickly tell if the photo meets standards.
• No mail-in route exists: Even if you’re renewing, the DS-82 form cannot be used for minors. Every application starts fresh with DS-11.
• Prevents surprise applications: The in-person requirement ensures both parents are aware before a passport is issued, which offers legal protection for custody arrangements.

The extra trip to a passport office may feel inconvenient, but it’s designed to protect the child’s welfare and keep the system secure.

Documents You Need for Your Infant’s Passport

Gathering the right paperwork ahead of your appointment saves frustration. For a U.S.-born infant, the primary proof is the certified birth certificate — U.S. birth certificate is what the State Department considers sufficient for babies born here. You’ll also need parent identification and proof of your relationship.

The birth certificate should have been filed within one year of the baby’s birth. If it’s older than that, the State Department may ask for additional evidence of citizenship, so bring the most recent copy.

Step-by-Step Application Process

Applying for a baby’s passport takes several steps, but each one is manageable when you prepare ahead. Plan to spend about an hour at the acceptance facility.

1. Gather all documents: Certified birth certificate, parent IDs, and any consent forms. Make photocopies of everything — the facility will keep the copies and return the originals.
2. Find a passport acceptance facility: Many post offices offer passport services by appointment. Use the State Department’s online tool to locate one near you that accepts DS-11 applications.
3. Complete Form DS-11: Fill out the application online, print it, but do not sign it until you’re in front of the acceptance agent. The form requires the child’s Social Security number.
4. Take the passport photo: You can have the photo taken at the facility or bring your own. For infants, a common trick is to lay the baby on a plain white sheet and shoot from above. Make sure no shadows cover the face.
5. Pay fees and submit: There are two separate fees: an application fee and an acceptance fee. Submit the forms, photos, and payment. The agent will review everything and issue you a receipt.

After submission, you’ll receive a tracking number. The processing clock starts once the application reaches the State Department, not when you mail it.

Timeline, Photos, and What to Watch Out For

Standard processing for a child passport takes 4 to 6 weeks, not including mailing time. USA.gov puts the standard processing time at 4 to 6 weeks — see infants need a passport for the official details. If you’re traveling sooner, expedited processing brings it to 2 to 3 weeks for an additional fee.

Passport photos for infants have some flexibility that parents appreciate: the baby’s eyes may be closed, and you don’t need them to look straight ahead if they can’t hold their head up. The photo must be in color, printed on photo-quality paper, and not digitally altered.

One common snag: if one parent cannot be present, you must submit a notarized Form DS-3053 (Statement of Consent). The notarization must be performed by a notary who witnesses the signature, and some countries require the absent parent to also provide a copy of their ID.

The Bottom Line

A baby’s passport is a real need if you plan to fly internationally. Start the process at least 8 weeks before your trip, gather the certified birth certificate, and schedule an appointment where both parents can appear together. Each passport is valid for five years, so it won’t be your last one — but getting the first one right saves headaches later.

If one parent cannot attend the appointment, the notarized consent form (DS-3053) must be completed in advance — your local passport acceptance facility can confirm the specific notarization rules for your state.