Passports for small children - document requirements

You have to bring the original. They take it and mail it back to you.

I think you’ll be fine for a trip next year.

:idk:

It took about a month after processing to get the birth certificates back then another month to get the passports. This was in February.

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With all of the backlogs, is it even worth it to expedite? I’m doing this in the hopes of a trip next summer so it seems like this is well enough in advance.

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You don't need to expedite for next summer, but good on you for getting it done.

The requirements for children passports are what they are on the official website, but what the intake person actually requires from that list can vary wildly. I know they just don't ask for some of them. I had a real stickler for every single thing while my buddy basically had to bring the kid and that was it.

Good to know

Yeah so I got thrown off because my local USPS confirmation email said to bring photocopies of required documents but a friend said they needed the original. But then the fed gov page says certified copy okay:

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Your evidence must be an original or certified, physical copy. A certified copy is any document that has the seal or stamp of the official issuing authority.

You must submit one of the following documents for your child:

Full validity, undamaged U.S. passport (expired passports are accepted). Full validity means the document is/was valid for 10 years for adults and 5 years for children under 16.
U.S. birth certificate that meets the following requirements:
Issued by the city, county, or state of birth
Lists applicant's full name, date of birth, and place of birth
Lists the parent(s)' full names
Has the date filed with registrar's office (must be within one year of birth)
Has the registrar's signature
Has the seal of the issuing authority
Consular Report of Birth Abroad or Certification of Birth
Certificate of Citizenship

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I renewed my daughter’s passport in April. You’ll need the original or a certified birth certificate. In the event one of the parents is unable to appear in person at the appointment, they can give permission by completing a Statement of Consent (this form must be signed and notarized and black ink is required. You’ll also need a front and back copy of their driver’s license).

If your trip isn’t until next summer, you probably won’t need to expedite. The clerk should be able to tell you current turn-times. I paid for expedited service because her trip is at the end of July. The application was received by the processing office on 04.21.2023 and we received her passport exactly 9 weeks later on 06.23.2023.

I can’t remember if this was mandatory, but be prepared to pay with a check.

I went to the clerk of courts office and they printed one for me on the spot.

Thanks!!