For a child under 16, both parents or guardians must consent. Ideally both appear in person with the child at the acceptance agent. If one parent can't be there, they can sign a notarized Form DS-3053 (Statement of Consent) instead. If one parent has sole legal custody, you'll provide documentation showing that. We'll tell you exactly which path fits your situation before you go.

Yes. Children's passport applications must be submitted in person at a passport acceptance agent (such as a Post Office or County Clerk), and the child must be present along with the consenting parent(s). Children's passports also can't be renewed by mail — every child application is done this way, whether it's their first passport or a replacement.

A child application always requires the child's certified birth certificate listing both parents (it also proves your relationship). Along with that: a photocopy of each parent's photo ID, a recent passport photo of the child, proof of upcoming travel, and the government fee. If a parent can't appear, add a notarized DS-3053. After you order, we email a personalized checklist and review everything with you before you ship.

With our fastest service, many families receive the child's passport in as little as 3 business days once the documents reach us. The exact timing depends on the processing speed you choose at checkout (3, 4, 6, 8, or 10 business days) and how quickly you complete the in-person step and get the paperwork to us. Urgent Passport is a private courier registered with the U.S. Department of State — not a government agency.