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My husband and I got our passports a few years ago, and we recently decided to get one for our daughter—just in case we travel outside the U.S. in the future. The process was pretty straightforward, but there were a few things we wish we had known beforehand.
If you’re considering getting a passport for your little one, here’s what to expect and some tips to make the process smoother.
How to Apply for a Baby’s Passport
To apply for a child’s passport, visit the U.S. Department of State website and fill out Form DS-11. You can complete it online and print it or fill it out by hand.
Next, schedule an appointment at a passport acceptance facility. We made ours at our local post office a few months in advance to ensure we got a time that worked for us.
What to Bring to Your Appointment
To avoid any delays, make sure you have the following documents:
• Completed DS-11 form (but don’t sign it until your appointment)
• Your child’s original birth certificate (plus a photocopy)
• Both parents’ IDs (driver’s licenses) with photocopies of the front and back
• Passport photo of your baby (or use the photo service at the post office)
• Payment (money order or check—cash and debit cards are NOT accepted)
We opted for the post office’s photo service for convenience, but you can also get passport photos at Walgreens or CVS.
Tips for a Smooth Appointment
1. Schedule your appointment early – Passport processing times are typically 6-8 weeks (or 2-3 weeks for expedited service).
2. Make sure your baby is well-rested and fed – A grumpy baby can make the photo process stressful. If possible, schedule the appointment after a nap.
3. Bring a checkbook or get a money order beforehand – I can never find my checkbook when I need it, so we paid a little extra for a money order at the post office.
4. Both parents must be present – If one parent can’t be there, you’ll need a notarized consent form (Form DS-3053) from the absent parent.
That’s it! Once everything is verified and submitted, all you have to do is wait for the passport to arrive.
Travel-Inspired Board Books for Little Explorers
Even though we’re not sure where our next trip will be, we love inspiring our daughter with books about travel. Here are three board books that are perfect for little adventurers:
1. This Little Explorer: A Pioneer Primer by Joan Holub
Introduce your child to historical explorers who ventured into unknown territories. This book simplifies their adventures, inspiring curiosity about the world.
2. Rio de Janeiro: A Book of Sounds (Hello, World) by Ashley Evanson
Through vibrant illustrations and interactive elements, this book explores the lively sounds of Rio de Janeiro, offering a sensory journey into a new culture.
3. Little Feminist Board Book Set by Lydia Ortiz
Celebrate diversity and influential women from various backgrounds. This set introduces strong female figures, fostering an appreciation for different cultures and histories.
📚 Check them out on my Amazon storefront!
Where Should We Travel Next?
I’d love to take a trip this summer, but I’m still deciding where. Have you traveled with a baby or toddler? How did they handle it? Let me know in the comments!
📌 Save this post for later & share with other parents preparing for their baby’s passport!
