You’re ready for your family trip. Bags are packed. Your passport is valid. But have you checked your child’s passport? Many parents are unaware that child passports have a shorter expiration date than adult passports, and they aren’t eligible for online renewal. Not checking a child passport expiration date can result in trip delays or even cancellations.
If you’re heading abroad and your child’s passport is expired (or close to it), it could stop your trip before it starts. We’ll help break down what to check, the rules, and how The Passport Office can help you get it all sorted quickly.
How Long Does a Child Passport Last?
Unlike adult passports, which are valid for 10 years, a child passport is only valid for 5 years. If your child got their passport before starting elementary school, chances are it’s already expired.
Even more importantly, some countries enforce a 6-month passport validity rule, meaning if the passport is close to expiration—even by a few months—your child might not be allowed to travel.
Can You Renew a Child Passport?
No. There is no online or mail-in renewal for a child passport. Each time, the application must be submitted in person, as if it were a new one.
To apply, both parents or legal guardians generally need to be present or provide notarized consent using Form DS-3053. Children must also be there in person for the application.
What You Need to Apply for a Child Passport
Here’s what you’ll need:
1. Proof of Citizenship
- A certified U.S. birth certificate, or
- A consular report of birth abroad, or
- A naturalization certificate
2. Proof of Parental Relationship
- Usually, the birth certificate shows the parent(s) listed
3. Valid ID for Parents or Guardians
- Driver’s license, passport, or state-issued ID
4. Passport Photo
- Must meet government standards (2×2 inches, plain background, etc.)
5. Completed Form DS-11
- This is the standard passport application for first-time applicants and children
The Passport Office can help you prepare all documents correctly, reducing the chance of delays.
Why Parents Often Forget
It’s easy to assume your child’s passport is valid, especially if you renewed your own around the same time. But those 5 years go fast.
These situations commonly reveal the problem:
- Booking last-minute travel
- Taking a family cruise
- Attending a wedding or event abroad
- Traveling during school breaks when passport agencies are backlogged
That’s why it’s important to check your child’s passport now, even if you’re not traveling yet.
How The Passport Office Helps with Child Passports
Whether you’re planning ahead or running out of time, The Passport Office can help with:
- Application assistance for child passports
- Review of documents before you submit
- Expedited processing in as little as 3 business days
- Walk-in appointments at locations in Florida and Atlanta
- Online appointments for families outside our service areas
How to Book a Virtual Appointment
You don’t need to visit us in person if there’s no office nearby. You can handle everything virtually:
- Visit thepassportoffice.com
- Choose your service type (Child Passport)
- Select your location and choose “Online Appointment.”
- Meet virtually with one of our passport experts
We’ll guide you through the process, help you gather your paperwork, and file everything correctly the first time.
Avoid the Most Common Child Passport Mistakes
- Not realizing your child’s passport had expired
- Waiting until the last minute
- Assuming you can renew like an adult passport
- Only one parent is showing up without a notarized consent form
- Using the wrong documents or an invalid photo
Let The Passport Office help you avoid all of the above.
Final Thoughts
Don’t let a hidden expiration date ruin your family’s next trip. Even if your passport is ready, make sure your child’s is too. With shorter validity, stricter rules, and a more complex process, it’s something many families overlook—until it’s too late.
Let The Passport Office help you get your child’s passport done correctly and quickly, whether you’re planning a vacation or have already booked a flight.
Jose Bone