Children and other applicants must submit the several documents the first time they apply for a passport. These include primary evidence of U.S. citizenship, such as a birth certificate; an 8-inch-by-11-inch photocopy of the evidence of citizenship; a Social Security number; a DS-11 application form; all applicable fees; and two passport-size photos.
Those younger than 17 years old need parental permission to apply for a passport. Parents need to be present when their children submit their application, and they should be prepared to show photo identification of themselves and proof of their relationship to the child.
If one parent has sole custody, that parent can appear. If one parent is simply unavailable, a notarized statement of consent can be submitted in lieu of appearing.
You must apply for a passport at a Passport Acceptance Facility, such as a post office.
Children and other applicants can receive expedited passport service for an additional fee. The U.S. Department of State says that anyone who needs expedited service because of an emergency can contact the National Passport Information Center at 1-877-487-2778; TDD/TTY: 1-888-874-7793.
