It used to be a trust issue for children to travel in the United States and abroad to a certain age level. However, now with increased security and issues of child welfare, all travelers of any age are required to have photo identification when traveling within the United States and also a passport if traveling outside of the country. Even to Canada and Mexico you will need a child passport, even for an infant.

Getting a passport is a good idea for your child anyway. They are good for five years and there are many circumstances where your child may need photo identification that is legally recognized. You can change the photo every six months as they grow to keep the picture current.

You will need your child's birth certificate as proof of U. S. Citizenship. You will need the actual certificate that has the state seal. The card that is issued will not be accepted. If your child was not born in the United States but is now a citizen, you will need proof of this or anything legal that proves they are a citizen of the United States. Be aware they take the birth certificate with the application and then return it to you.

You need your proof as well that you are the parent. This is good with the birth certificate or adoption papers if you do not have your name on the birth certificate. If you are a legal guardian bring the court documents with you for the application process. Check to see the entire proper identification accepted from their website.

Also bring your child's social security card with you. It is filled out on the DS-11 application and also you may need to show the actual card. Gather all of these items in a folder so you are organized when you get there to the application appointment. You do not need to make an appointment to get a passport. It is usually done on a walk in basis.

You will also need identification for yourself as the parent. A passport, driver's license or military identification is an example of the accepted forms of identification that is accepted. You can also look online at their official site for all of the accepted forms of proper identification.

You can bring your own photos to the application process but they need to be certain specs to be acceptable. They are very stringent on this so do not bring a class photo or baby picture. Go to a professional photographer and have them take a passport photo and they will know what to do. You will need two pictures. Some places will also take your photo for you so check in advance where you are applying.

Know that a US passport cost around eighty dollars. Be prepared to pay this fee and extra fees for photos if you need those as well to obtain a child's passport. Check the acceptable modes of payment before you arrive to submit the application. Being prepared can make the application process go smoothly for you, the person who works there, and everyone else in line. You can get a kid's passport easily when you are prepared and have all the necessary pieces of legal material needed to submit an application smoothly that will be approved.