The old days are gone when you brought your child on a plane and they took your word that it was your child. Now with security levels being raised it is necessary for all passengers to have a passport. Even with an infant you will need passport identification for their ability to board a plane. You also need to know what to bring with you for a child passport application.
Getting a passport is a good idea for your child anyway. They are good for five years and there are many circumstances where your child may need photo identification that is legally recognized. You can change the photo every six months as they grow to keep the picture current.
You will need your child’s birth certificate as proof of U. S. Citizenship. You will need the actual certificate that has the state seal. The card that is issued will not be accepted. If your child was not born in the United States but is now a citizen, you will need proof of this or anything legal that proves they are a citizen of the United States. Be aware they take the birth certificate with the application and then return it to you.
You will also need proof that you are the parent. You will need to prove this with a birth certificate or custody papers if it is an adoption. If one parent is not present and both have custody you will need a notarized signature on a form you get from the post office or download online of the absent parent. If you have sole custody and the other parent is not in the picture you will need your signed court documents to prove it when applying for a passport for your child.
Also will be needed is your child’s social security number. It is put on the DS-11 application you can get from the post office or print from an online source. Bring the card with you when you go to apply just in case.
You will also need identification for yourself as the parent. A passport, driver’s license or military identification is an example of the accepted forms of identification that is accepted. You can also look online at their official site for all of the accepted forms of proper identification.
You can bring your own photos to the application process but they need to be certain specs to be acceptable. They are very stringent on this so do not bring a class photo or baby picture. Go to a professional photographer and have them take a passport photo and they will know what to do. You will need two pictures. Some places will also take your photo for you so check in advance where you are applying.
You also need to be prepared for the cost of a infant passport. They are expensive and if you need to save up you will need to do so. They do not take payments and with the kids passport application you will have to pay the fee. Make sure you have all the documents you need and be prepared to wait. Some offices have long lines so be prepared to wait, as your child needs a U.S. passport to travel.