How to Replace an Expired Child’s Passport:

Question: My granddaughter has an expired passport. She is now 14 and I want to take her to Europe when she is 15. Can I apply for a passport for her or does she need to go in person with her mother?

Your granddaughter will need to apply for a new passport in person with both parents. U.S. passports issued to children under age 16 cannot be renewed, even if the passport is only recently expired. So instead of renewing, she’ll submit a new application.

What To Do (Step-by-Step)

1) Fill out Form DS-11 (but don’t sign it yet)

Complete Form DS-11 ahead of time, but do not sign it until the acceptance agent tells your granddaughter to sign during the appointment.

2) Apply in person at a passport acceptance facility

Because she will be under 16, she must apply in person at an authorized passport acceptance facility.

3) Bring proof of the child's U.S. citizenship

She must submit evidence of U.S. citizenship. An expired U.S. passport can often be used for this purpose. Many families also bring a certified birth certificate as a backup. Bring both the originals and photocopies.

4) Bring parents' or guardians' photo ID

This must be a physical valid identifiction document and a photocopy.

5) Bring one passport photo

She’ll need one passport photo that meets the official passport photo requirements.

6) Meet the “Under 16” parent/guardian rules

This is the part that most often causes delays. For applicants under 16, the U.S. Department of State requires parental/guardian permission for the passport to be issued.

• Best-case (simplest): Both parents/legal guardians appear in person with your granddaughter and present acceptable photo IDs (and any required copies).
• If one parent/guardian cannot appear: The parent/guardian who does appear generally must submit the other parent’s notarized Statement of Consent (Form DS-3053), along with the supporting documentation required with that consent.

Can a Grandparent Apply Instead of the Parent?

Sometimes, yes, but only if the required consent paperwork allows it. Even if you (the grandparent) help handle the appointment, your granddaughter must still appear in person (because she is under 16), and the application must still include the correct parent/guardian consent and identification documentation.

Timing Tip for International Travel

If you’re planning a Europe trip when she’s 15, it’s smart to apply well before your travel dates. Avoid waiting until the last minute so you have time to respond if anything is missing.

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