Traveling with a baby: Do babies need passports?

If you’re ready to travel with internationally with your child, you’ll need a few key things to get the process started, including: A passport application formRequired documents like a birth certificate An appointment at a passport facility

Flying with a baby comes with a checklist of things to do and bring, but if you are traveling internationally, you also need to know and follow the passport requirements. If they're traveling internationally by plane, babies need passports, just like adults. It surprises a lot of people, but even a newborn must have a valid passport to leave or re-enter the United States. There’s no such thing as an exception just because they’re small or under a certain age. Every US citizen, regardless of age, must have their own passport for international air travel.

Do babies need passports?

International travel

If your baby is flying to another country (even Canada or Mexico), they must have a passport. For land and sea travel, there’s a little more flexibility. For land or sea crossings from the US into Canada, Mexico or the Caribbean, US citizens under 16 can usually use a birth certificate. However, having a passport simplifies things and avoids any confusion about what kind of document you need.

Domestic travel

Technically, no government-issued ID is required for a baby (or any child under 18) to fly within the US. However, the airline might require proof of age, especially if your child is under the age of two and flying as a “lap infant” (meaning they don't have their own seat). They might also need a government-issued ID (which can include a passport) if they're flying alone as an unaccompanied minor.

In short: The TSA doesn't require ID, but the airline might, so it’s smart to have something ready, such as a birth certificate. A child’s passport can be a handy document to have on hand in these cases, even if you are only planning on traveling domestically.

When does a child need a passport?

If your child, no matter their age, is flying internationally (even to Canada, Mexico, or the Caribbean), they must have their own valid US passport. This applies to infants, toddlers, and children under 16 without exceptions.

Seven easy steps to apply for a passport for your baby

Getting a passport for your child might sound complicated, but it’s pretty manageable when you break it down. Here’s our step-by-step guide:

1. Complete the online form for a passport

First, you’ll need to fill out the DS-11 form online using the State Department’s Form Filler tool. Important: Print it but don't sign it yet – you’ll do that later in front of an official.

2. Gather the required documents for your baby’s passport

Next, find your child’s original birth certificate (or other proof that they’re a US citizen). You’ll need the original document, not just a copy. You’ll also need to gather your ID, such as your driver's license, and also the ID of the child’s other parent or legal guardian. Both of you need to prove who you are.

3. Show parental proof of guardianship

You also have to show proof that you’re the parent or legal guardian. For most cases, a birth certificate should suffice, but if you adopted your child, an adoption decree may work too.

4. Make photocopies of your documents

Make front and back photocopies of both your IDs and the child’s citizenship document. You'll need these copies when you go in.

5. Go in person to a local passport facility

Find a passport acceptance facility. You can search for one at iafdb.travel.state.gov. Then, you, your child, and the other parent or guardian all go together to submit the application. Both parents usually need to be there.

If you are traveling in more than three weeks, go to a passport acceptance facility such as a post office, library, or local government office. Check with the facility to see if you need to make an appointment. Traveling in less than three weeks? Make an appointment to apply at a passport agency or center.

6. Submit your passport documents

At the passport facility, you’ll turn in all your originals and photocopies. Also, both parents or guardians have to officially consent to the child getting a passport. Finally, bring the unsigned DS-11 form with you and be ready to pay the passport fees. It’s smart to bring two checks because sometimes the payments need to be split up.

Bonus: Some places even offer photo services if you still need a passport photo.

7. Track your passport application status

If you include an email address on your passport application, you'll be emailed updates about the status of your application. You can also check the status of the application online and learn more about each status update.

Tips for flying with a baby

Time your flight right

If you can, try to book a flight that lines up with your baby’s nap or bedtime. A sleepy baby can often mean a smoother trip. Direct flights are a great option, as they are easier, and cut down on your chance for delays, lost luggage, and other opportunities for mishaps.

Make feeding times strategic

Babies' ears, and their smaller, less developed Eustachian tubes, are more vulnerable to air pressure changes. Nursing, bottle-feeding, or even offering a pacifier during takeoff and landing can ease the discomfort.

Pack essentials and extras

Your carry-on should have the essentials: Diapers, wipes, an extra outfit for both you and the baby, snacks, favorite toys, a cozy blanket, and anything else that keeps them happy. Have everything in its place so you’re not digging around mid-flight.

Keep baby entertainment fresh

Babies love novelty. Pick up a couple of inexpensive, lightweight toys they haven’t seen before, even something simple like a new rattle or a soft crinkly book. Unveiling them mid-flight can be just the distraction they—and you—need.

Take to the aisles

When the coast is clear, and the pilot allows it, a little movement can sometimes work magic. Strolling up and down the plane with your baby in your arms can do wonders for their mood.

Bring media backup

Having some downloaded videos, songs, or apps on hand can really help when your baby is fussy. Enjoying a bit of screen time during the journey can make for a more peaceful and pleasant environment for everyone.

If your baby is old enough to enjoy a short video or calming music, go ahead and have a few ready to go on your phone or tablet. Bonus points if you pack baby-sized headphones. The volume on planes can be loud, and you’ll want to keep things gentle on their ears.

Give yourself plenty of time

When you're traveling with a baby, the process often takes longer than you expect. Checking in, getting through security, even grabbing a coffee before boarding can take more time than you planned. Babies might need an unexpected diaper change, want to nurse, or just need a few minutes to settle if they’re overwhelmed by all the airport noise and lights.

Getting to the airport early buys you breathing room. Instead of feeling rushed, you can move at your baby's pace. You have time to soothe them, find a quiet corner to feed, or regroup when a meltdown hits.

FAQ

Can newborns travel without a passport?

Not for international air travel. Every citizen, including infants, must have their own passport to fly internationally.

If your child is a US citizen under 16 and they're crossing by land into Canada or Mexico, a birth certificate can typically suffice.

What is the minimum age for an infant passport?

There's no minimum age requirement for obtaining a US passport. Even newborns are eligible and must have their own passport to travel internationally.

Do babies under two fly free internationally?

For international flights, airlines usually charge a fee for infants traveling on a parent's lap. This fee is often around 10% of the adult fare, plus any applicable taxes and fees. ​

How long are children’s passports valid for?

Children's passports (for kids under 16) are only valid for five years, while adult passports are valid for 10. Keep in mind, many countries require at least three to six months left before the expiration of a passport to travel into the country, so stay up to date on renewing your child’s passport.

Are there any alternatives to a passport for a baby for land or sea travel?

For land and sea travel between the US, Canada, Mexico, Bermuda, and the Caribbean, you can get a passport card instead of (or in addition to) a regular passport. It’s cheaper ($50 for kids under 16) but can't be used for international air travel.

If you are just doing a land crossing into Canada or Mexico, you can carry your child’s birth certificate as long as they're under 16. If both parents are not traveling with the child, US Customs and Border Protection suggests you travel with a consent letter from the other parent.

How far in advance do I need to start the passport process?

Passport processing times can be slow (six to eight weeks is normal, but you can get it a few weeks faster with expedited service). It may take two weeks from the day you apply until your child's application status is “In Process.” Since it can be slow going, give yourself a little time to pull everything together. Apply for your child’s passport several months before your trip to keep travel timelines as stress free as possible.

How long past the travel dates does the passport have to be valid for?

Always check that your child’s passport will still be valid for at least six months beyond your travel dates, because many countries require it.