After we returned from our summer trip to Italy, I received an email reminding me that my child’s U.S. passport would expire within one year. Since many countries require every visitor’s passport to be valid for at least six months beyond the date of arrival, I started the renewal process even though we have no upcoming travel plans.
Since my son is 14 years old and you cannot renew a passport for a child under age 16, I had to apply again in person using Form DS-11. You can find the form here. There are requirements for any child under age 16 applying for a passport:
- Both parents or guardians must give their approval for a child to receive a passport and must be present with the child when applying.
- If one or both parents or guardians cannot be present with the child, you will need to show more documents.
- You cannot renew a child's passport using Form DS-82.
- Passports for children under age 16 are valid for 5 years.
Next, you'll have to make an appointment at one of the Satellite City Halls to submit your passport application. Although my daughter is 18, she did not qualify for renewal because her passport was issued when she was under 16 so we also had to go in person.
Be sure to read the instructions carefully because I missed that she was to provide photocopies of proof of US citizenship and proof of identity. In total we were charged for five copies which came out to $2.50. If you do make your own copies, they must be on letter size paper, single sided, and black and white (no color).
Cost for the passport book is $130, but you will also need to pay a Facility Acceptance Fee of $35 so bring a check for each. Hope this eases any hassles and safe travels!
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