How long is a US passport valid and how do kids get one?
The short answer
A U.S. passport issued at 16 or older lasts 10 years. One issued under 16 lasts 5 years and cannot be renewed. The State Department says some destinations want 6 months of validity beyond your trip.
Validity
The State Department says a passport issued when you were 16 or older is valid for 10 years. If you were under 16 it is valid for 5 years. Find the issue date on the data page of the passport book.
It also says some destinations require your passport to be valid for at least 6 months beyond your trip dates, and some airlines will not let you board if that is not met. Check the travel advisory for your destination.
Applying for a child under 16
Both parents or guardians must be present with the child, or show more documents. You cannot renew a child's passport. You must apply in person each time.
- Passport book: $100 plus $35 facility fee
- Passport card: $15 plus $35 facility fee
- Book and card: $115 plus $35 facility fee
- Routine service is 4 to 6 weeks, expedited 2 to 3 weeks for an extra $60
If a parent cannot attend
If one parent cannot go in person but both have custody, that parent must sign the notarized Statement of Consent, Form DS-3053, and provide a photocopy of their photo ID. Other cases need extra documents, such as a court order for sole custody.
The State Department also runs a free Children's Passport Issuance Alert Program that tells a parent or guardian when someone applies for their child's passport.
Official pages change, check the source before you pay.
Sources: State Dept: Child passport under 16, State Dept: After you get your passport, State Dept: International travel checklist. Read 5 November 2026. Rules and fees change, so check the official page before you travel.
Frequently asked questions
Can I renew my child's passport?
No. The State Department says to apply in person each time for a child under 16.
How long does a child's passport last?
5 years for children under 16.
Do both parents have to attend?
Both must be present, or one must provide a notarized DS-3053 and other documents.
Does every country need 6 months of validity?
No. The page says some destinations do. Check the specific country's entry rules.
How should a child's passport be signed?
A parent prints the child's name, signs next to it and notes their relationship.