If you’re planning that big family trip—whether it’s a Disney cruise, a European adventure, or just hopping over to Canada—there’s one little blue book you have to have: your passport. This passport guide for single parents shows you exactly how to get a passport for you and your kids without the stress.
And here’s the golden rule: apply early—like months early. Don’t wait until you’ve already booked flights or cruises. The sooner you get the process started, the less stressful it’ll be (and the cheaper, since you won’t have to pay those dreaded expedited fees).
Step 1: Gather Your Paperwork for Your Passport
For adults, you’ll need:
- Proof of citizenship (a certified birth certificate or old passport).
- Photo ID (driver’s license or government ID).
- Form DS-11 (the application for a U.S. passport—download it here).
For kids under 16:
- Both parents/guardians must usually be present, OR you’ll need a notarized consent form from the other parent (details here).
- Original birth certificate showing parent names.
- Kids don’t need a photo ID, but they do need YOU.
Step 2: Passport Photos (No Duck Faces Allowed)
You’ll need a passport photo—2×2 inches, plain white background, no hats, no filters. Pro tip: skip the DIY drama. Walgreens, CVS, or even your local post office can take and print them in five minutes.
Even better? Some passport acceptance offices will take your photo on-site when you apply. This eliminates an extra step and saves you a trip—so if you have a facility in your area that offers this, definitely use it.
Need official photo requirements? Check them here.
Step 3: Passport Fees (and Budget Ahead)
As of 2025, here are the current U.S. passport fees:
- Adult passport book (first-time or renewal): $165 → The standard blue book needed for all international air travel.
- Child passport book (under 16): $135 → Valid for 5 years.
- Adult passport card: $65 → Wallet-sized card, cheaper, but only works for land and sea crossings to Canada, Mexico, Bermuda, and the Caribbean. Not valid for flights.
- Child passport card: $50 → Same as adult card, but for kids.
- Both book + card together (adult): $195 → Convenient if you want a card for border trips and a book for flights.
- Both book + card together (child): $150 → Same idea for kids.
- Expedited service: Add $60 → Cuts processing time down to about 2–3 weeks.
Full fee breakdown: see the official passport fee chart.
Which should you choose? In most cases, you’ll need the passport book. Add the card only if you frequently travel by land or sea to nearby countries.
Pro tip: Write checks separately—one to the U.S. Department of State for the passport itself, and one to the facility (post office, courthouse, etc.) for the acceptance fee.
Step 4: Apply In Person
For first-time applications, you’ll go to an acceptance facility (usually your local post office). Bring:
- All your documents
- Your payment
- Your patience (lines can be long)
Find your nearest passport acceptance facility using the official locator tool.
Step 5: Wait (and Track Your Passport)
Here’s where “earlier is better” comes in. Standard processing usually takes 6–8 weeks, and that doesn’t include mailing time. Around holidays or summer travel season, it can take even longer. If you’re renewing by mail it may take a bit less, but first-time passports always require more time.
Expedited service shortens the wait to about 2–3 weeks, but remember you’ll pay extra for it. In truly urgent cases (like emergency travel), there are limited same‑day appointment options at regional passport agencies.
That’s why I recommend applying at least 3–4 months before your trip. Think of it as travel insurance against stress—you’ll have your passport in hand long before you’re packing bags.
If you cut it close, you’ll need expedited service, which adds $60 (and even then, expect 2–3 weeks). Check passport status online.
Bonus Tips for Single Parents Getting Passports
- Shared custody? Bring the other parent or that notarized consent form. Don’t skip this step—it’s the #1 hiccup I see single parents run into. (Here’s the custody and consent guide).
- Traveling often? Consider getting the passport card in addition to the book. It’s cheaper and works for land/sea travel to Canada, Mexico, and the Caribbean.
- Keep copies. Photocopy the photo page of your passport and tuck it somewhere safe. If you lose it on your trip, you’ll thank me.
Remember: knowing how to get a passport for you and your kids will save you time and stress later. And if you’re wondering exactly how to get a passport for you and your kids without mistakes, this guide has you covered.
Final Thoughts
Yes, it’s paperwork heavy. Yes, it’s annoying. But if you start early, it’s smooth sailing. Once you’re standing in front of the Eiffel Tower, riding a gondola in Venice, or watching your kids chase seagulls in the Bahamas—you’ll forget all about those hours in line.
So don’t wait—apply now for your passport. Future you (the one sipping gelato in Rome) will be very, very thankful.
