It's Easier Than You Think to Get a Passport for a Minor

 Passports are an absolute must for any family vacation that involves international travel. Everyone ages together, meaning mom, dad, and all the kids. Parents usually don't have a problem with this, but kids are a different issue. Minors under 16 can obtain a fast passport with little planning and time, but it is a complex process.

Whether they're six months old or 16 years old, kids require their passports. These passport applications must be submitted in person, with the minor's parents or legal guardians present. The child's U.S. citizenship status will need to be verified, and both parents' identification will need to show that they are related to the child. At this point, you'll need photocopies of your identification documents and a parental consent form.

To apply for a passport in person, the parents must find a Passport Acceptance Facility, U.S. Regional Passport Office, U.S. Consulate, or U.S. Embassy. The minor will require a completed passport application and proof of U.S. citizenship. If one exists, the child's photo ID must be supplied with the application; otherwise, the parent's ID must be presented, and a photocopy must be included. A parent's signature is required either on the application or a separate consent form.

Passport application processing and issuance fees apply, but they are far lower for minors than adults. The issue price and the processing fee will cover getting a passport. It's a good idea to find out what forms of payment are accepted at your destination ahead of time so you can bring the appropriate funds.

There are multiple options available when an urgent passport is required. While the government typically takes two to three weeks to expedite for an extra fee, private service providers can do so in as little as one or two business days. This service is provided at an additional cost over and above the passport application price levied by the government.

Two identical color pictures will be required as part of the application process. These need to be taken by a professional photographer familiar with the government's specific guidelines. There are usually affordable local possibilities for this, such as neighborhood pharmacies or even little photography studios.

Anyone younger than 16 when their passport was issued, must appear at a passport agency to renew their passport personally. If the minor was 16 when the passport was issued, they could restore it by mail instead of visiting a passport office in person. They must bring their expired passport, renewed application, and updated pictures. If urgent treatment is required, individuals can wait the government's standard two to three weeks or use an online expedited service.