How Much Is A Child's Passport?

If you're applying for your child's first passport, you're probably wondering how much a child's passport costs and what fees you'll need to pay. The total amount depends on the type of passport you choose, whether you request expedited service, and any additional processing fees. 

Children's passports have different fees and requirements from adult passports. They are also valid for a shorter period, which means parents should understand both the application costs and the renewal process before making travel plans.

This guide explains current child passport fees, additional costs, expedited service, and what you can expect during the application process.

How Much Does a Child's Passport Cost?

The cost depends on the type of passport you choose and the child's age.

For children under 16 applying with Form DS-11, the current government fees are:

• Passport Book: $100 application fee + $35 acceptance fee

• Passport Card: $15 application fee + $35 acceptance fee

• Passport Book and Card: $115 application fee + $35 acceptance fee

Unlike adult passports, children's passports are valid for five years and cannot be renewed by mail. Once they expire, parents must complete a new passport application in person.

Additional Child Passport Fees

In addition to the government application fees, there may be other expenses depending on your situation. These may include:

• Passport photo costs

• Expedited processing fee

• Overnight shipping fees

• Notary fees if required for parental consent forms

• Professional passport service fees if you choose application assistance

While these costs are optional, many families choose expedited processing when travel dates are approaching.

Expedited Child Passport Fees

For families with urgent travel plans, Chicago Passport & Visa Services offers several expedited child passport service options with expert application support to help reduce delays and ensure your paperwork is completed correctly.

Available expedited service options include:

• Emergency (3–4 Business Days): Service fee starting at $499

• Priority (5–7 Business Days): Service fee starting at $399

• Rush (7–10 Business Days): Service fee starting at $299

• Express (10–14 Business Days): Service fee starting at $199

Whether you choose to apply online or visit our Chicago office, our team can assist with document review, parental consent requirements, and application accuracy to help make the process as smooth as possible.

Child Passport Application Process

The child passport process is slightly different from an adult passport application because children under 16 must apply in person and meet additional parental consent requirements. Following each step carefully can help you avoid delays and keep your travel plans on schedule. 

Step 1: Complete Form DS-11

Every child under 16 must apply using Form DS-11.

The application must be completed before your appointment, but it should not be signed until instructed by the passport acceptance agent.

Step 2: Gather Required Documents

You'll typically need:

• Child's birth certificate or proof of citizenship

• Completed Form DS-11

• Parent or guardian identification

• One passport photo

• Payment for government fees

Having everything prepared before your appointment can help avoid delays.

Step 3: Meet the Parental Consent Requirement

Most child passport applications require both parents or legal guardians to appear with the child.

If one parent cannot attend, additional forms such as DS-3053 or DS-5525 may be required depending on the circumstances.

Step 4: Submit the Application

Child passports must be submitted in person at an authorized passport acceptance facility or passport agency.

Many families also choose professional passport services to help review documents before submission, especially when applying under tight deadlines.

How Long Does It Take to Get a Child's Passport?

Processing times vary throughout the year. Routine service generally takes several weeks, while expedited processing shortens the timeline.

Families with international travel coming up should apply as early as possible to avoid delays caused by seasonal demand.

Tips to Save Time During Your Child's Passport Application

A little preparation can make the process much easier.

• Gather every required document before your appointment.

• Double-check all forms for accuracy.

• Make sure your child's passport photo meets current requirements.

• Bring original documents and photocopies if required.

• Apply early whenever possible.

If your trip is approaching quickly, an expedited child passport application can help reduce processing time and provide extra peace of mind before departure.

Common Mistakes Parents Should Avoid

Small mistakes can delay passport approval. Some of the most common issues include:

• Missing signatures

• Incorrect passport photos

• Incomplete forms

• Missing parental consent documents

• Waiting until the last minute to apply

Reviewing your application carefully before submission can help prevent unnecessary delays.

Final Thoughts

Knowing how much a child's passport costs helps parents plan ahead and avoid unexpected expenses before international travel. From government fees to expedited processing, understanding the full cost makes the application process much smoother. Applying early, gathering the correct documents, and choosing expedited service when necessary can help ensure your child's passport arrives before your travel dates.

Need Your Child's Passport Quickly?

Chicago Passport & Visa Services helps families complete child passport applications quickly and accurately. Whether you're applying for a first-time passport or need expedited processing for upcoming travel, our experienced team can guide you through every step.

Contact us today to learn more about our expedited child passport services. We'll help review your documents, answer your questions, and make the application process as smooth as possible.

FAQs

How much does a child's passport cost?

For children under 16, the government application fee for a passport book is $100, plus a $35 acceptance fee. If you also request expedited processing or faster shipping, additional fees will apply.

Can I expedite my child's passport application?

Yes. The U.S. Department of State offers expedited processing for an additional $60 government fee. Families with urgent travel plans often choose this option to receive the passport sooner.

Do both parents need to be present when applying?

In most cases, yes. Either parent or legal guardian must provide consent for a child's passport application. If one parent cannot attend, additional forms and supporting documents may be required.

How long is a child's passport valid?

A passport issued to a child under 16 is valid for five years. Once it expires, it cannot be renewed by mail and a new application must be submitted in person.

Can Chicago Passport & Visa Services help with expedited child passport applications?

Yes. Chicago Passport & Visa Services assists families with preparing documents, reviewing applications, and helping expedite eligible child passport applications. Professional assistance can help reduce errors and make the process easier, especially if you have upcoming travel plans.