How to get a passport for teens: requirements and process
Short answer
A passport for teens is an official government document that lets you travel internationally and proves your identity and citizenship. To get one, teens ages 13 to 17 need to apply with a parent or guardian’s help, provide proof of citizenship, identification, a photo, and pay a fee. Having a passport is important for trips abroad and can be required for some activities like school travel or work.
What is a passport for teens and why do you need one?
A passport for teens is a booklet or card issued by the U.S. government that confirms who you are and that you are a U.S. citizen. It lets you travel outside the United States and return home. Even if you don’t have immediate travel plans, having a passport is useful because it serves as an official ID accepted worldwide. For teens, it can also be necessary for school trips, study abroad programs, or summer jobs in other countries. Unlike a driver’s license, a passport is recognized internationally and is the primary way governments check who you are when crossing borders.
How does the passport application process work for teens 13–17?
Teens aged 13 to 17 apply for a passport by submitting Form DS-11, which is the standard application for first-time passports or renewals when the previous passport was issued before age 16. The process requires both the teen and a parent or guardian to appear together in person at a passport acceptance facility such as a post office or government office. This is to confirm parental consent and the teen’s identity. You must bring:
- Proof of U.S. citizenship (like a birth certificate)
- Proof of identity (such as a school ID or driver’s permit)
- A recent passport photo (2x2 inches, with a plain white background)
- Parental identification
- Payment for the application fee
After submitting your application, processing usually takes several weeks, or faster if you pay extra for expedited service.
Example:
Imagine you are 15 and planning a trip to Europe next summer. You and your parent go to the post office with your birth certificate, school ID, and a printed passport photo. Your parent shows their driver’s license and fills out the application form with your help. You pay the fee and get a receipt. A few weeks later, your new passport arrives in the mail, ready for your trip.
What are the special requirements for teens compared to kids or adults?
Teens 13 to 17 must apply in person with a parent or guardian, unlike adults who can apply alone. This is because the government requires parental consent for minors. Also, passports issued to teens usually expire after 5 years, not 10 years like adult passports, so you will need to renew it more often. Teens under 16 have slightly different rules, such as mandatory in-person application by both parents. When renewing a teen’s passport, if the previous one was issued before age 16, you cannot use the simple renewal form and must apply again in person.
How do you renew a passport for a teen?
If the teen’s passport is still valid or expired less than 5 years ago and was issued when the teen was 16 or older, they can renew by mail using Form DS-82. However, if the passport was issued when the teen was younger than 16, even if expired, the teen will need to apply in person again using Form DS-11 with a parent or guardian. Renewing includes submitting the old passport, a new photo, proof of identity, and paying the renewal fee. This ensures the teen’s passport is up to date and valid for international travel.
What terms related to passports for teens are often confused?
People sometimes mix up terms like:
- Passport book vs. passport card: The passport book is for all international travel by air, land, or sea. The passport card is a wallet-sized card only valid for land and sea travel between the U.S., Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Bermuda.
- Applying for a passport vs. renewing: Applying means getting a passport for the first time or after the previous one was issued before age 16. Renewing means updating a valid or recently expired passport issued at age 16 or older.
- Passport vs. visa: A passport is your personal ID to travel; a visa is permission from another country to enter or stay there. You may need both for some trips.
- Parent consent vs. notarized consent: For teens, a parent or guardian must be present in person when applying, so notarized consent usually isn’t accepted for minors under 16.
Understanding these terms helps avoid mistakes that could delay your passport application.
Why does having a passport matter for teens?
Having a passport opens many opportunities for teens beyond travel. It can be required for summer camps, exchange programs, or jobs that involve travel. It also serves as a reliable form of ID accepted by banks, schools, and government offices. For teens without a driver’s license, a passport can be the main photo ID. Additionally, having a passport means you’re ready for emergencies, like last-minute family travel or moving overseas. It’s a key document for independence while still under adult care.
What should you do next to get a passport if you’re a teen?
Start by talking with your parent or guardian about your travel plans or why you want a passport. Then, gather the required documents:
- Your original birth certificate or proof of citizenship.
- Your school ID or other government photo ID.
- A passport photo meeting official requirements.
- Your parent’s or guardian’s ID.
- Check the latest application fees on the official U.S. passport website.
Make an appointment at a passport acceptance facility or go during walk-in hours. Fill out Form DS-11 but do not sign it until instructed by the passport agent. Attend the appointment with your parent or guardian and submit your application. After receiving your passport, keep it safe in a wallet or a passport holder designed for teens to protect it from damage.
For more detailed steps, see articles about getting a passport for teenagers and passport renewal guidance for teens.
Frequently asked questions
Can a teen apply for a passport without a parent present?
For teens aged 13 to 17, at least one parent or legal guardian must appear in person with the teen when applying for a passport. This is required to give parental consent and verify identity. If a parent cannot attend, additional legal paperwork may be needed, but rules vary by state, so check with the passport agency.
How long does it take to get a teen’s passport once applied?
Processing normally takes several weeks after submitting the application. Expedited options are available for an extra fee if you need the passport faster. Always apply well before any planned travel to avoid delays.
Can a teen use their passport as a school ID?
Yes, a passport is an official government photo ID and is widely accepted, but some schools may still require their own student ID. It’s a good backup form of identification.
What happens if a teen loses their passport?
Report the lost passport immediately to the Department of State. Teens will need to apply for a replacement passport in person with their parent or guardian and provide proof of identity. Losing a passport can delay travel plans, so keep it in a safe place.
Is a passport card enough for international air travel?
No, a passport card cannot be used for international air travel. It only works for land and sea border crossings between the U.S. and nearby countries. For flights abroad, a full passport book is required.
How much does it cost to get or renew a teen’s passport?
Fees vary depending on the type of passport and processing speed. Check the official U.S. passport website for current fees. Teens typically pay the same fees as adults for a passport book.