Quick answer
Short answer
For a child under 16, both parents or guardians generally must consent, the child must appear in person, and proof of the parental relationship plus both parents' identification are typically required.
Consent is the hard part
When one parent cannot attend, a notarized consent form is usually required. When sole legal authority exists, documentation of that authority replaces it.
Plan for five-year validity
Passports for children under 16 are typically valid for five years, so family renewal cycles come around faster than adults expect.
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Keep reading
XpressPass is a private passport assistance service and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or operated by the U.S. Department of State or any other government agency. Government passport fees are separate from XpressPass service fees. Passport issuance decisions are made solely by the U.S. government.