Sachin Walls
A passport is a primary form of identification and provides official proof of citizenship. While a passport book is required for international travel, a passport card can be used as an alternative form of identification when flying within the United States. However, it is important to note that a passport card cannot be used for international air travel. For children under the age of 18, the requirements for identification may vary depending on their age and destination. While some airlines may not require photo identification for children under 16, it is always a good idea to carry a birth certificate or other acceptable forms of identification to avoid any unforeseen issues.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Can a child's passport card be used at an airport? | A child's passport card cannot be used for international air travel. It is a wallet-sized alternative to a traditional passport that allows re-entry into the United States at land border crossings and sea ports of entry from Canada, Mexico, some Caribbean countries, and Bermuda. It can be used as an ID when flying within the United States. |
| TSA requirements for children | TSA does not require children under 18 to provide identification when traveling within the United States. However, unaccompanied minors who are eligible for TSA PreCheck must show an acceptable ID to receive expedited screening. |
| International travel requirements for children | International travel always requires a passport. Children under 18 traveling internationally without both parents present require a Child Travel Consent Form to avoid hassles boarding airplanes. |
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What You'll Learn
International travel requirements
Passport Requirements:
A passport is required for all international travel, regardless of age. This means that both you and your child will need a passport before heading to the airport. A passport serves as your child's primary form of identification when travelling internationally and provides official proof of citizenship. It is important to note that a child's passport card is not valid for international air travel. Only a passport book is accepted as a valid form of identification for international flights.
Additional Documents:
While a passport is the primary requirement, there are other documents that may be needed, especially if the child is travelling without one or both parents. A birth certificate is always good to have on hand, and some countries may specifically request it for children who appear older than their age. If only one parent is travelling with the child, a Child Travel Consent Form may be required to avoid any hassles during boarding. This form is also necessary when a minor under 18 is travelling internationally without both parents. Additionally, some countries may require further documentation, such as a notarized consent letter from the non-travelling parent(s).
Airline and Airport Procedures:
Each airline and airport may have its own specific procedures and requirements for children travelling alone or with a guardian. It is important to check with your airline and airport of departure regarding their policies for unaccompanied minors. Some airlines may require additional documentation, such as a copy of the child's complete itinerary, important phone numbers, and the details of the person meeting the child at the destination.
Identification at TSA Checkpoints:
The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) does not require children under 18 to provide identification when travelling within the United States. However, for international travel, a valid passport is mandatory. The TSA strongly encourages travellers to check the list of acceptable forms of identification before their trip, as requirements may change without notice.
By being aware of these international travel requirements and planning ahead, you can ensure a smoother journey for you and your child.
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Domestic travel requirements
Children under 18 are typically not required to present identification for domestic U.S. travel. However, some airlines may require identification from the accompanying adult on behalf of the child. It is always good to carry a birth certificate or some form of government-issued ID for children when travelling, especially for international travel. This is because some children may look older, and a birth certificate can help prove their age.
Children under two years old can fly for free as a lap child on domestic flights as long as they are accompanied by an adult. However, at check-in, the airline may require proof that the child is under two. In such cases, a passport, birth certificate, or another form of government-issued ID can be used. If the child is less than two weeks old, a note from a physician stating that the child is healthy enough to fly may be required.
For unaccompanied minors, a parent or guardian must accompany them through the airport until the plane leaves the tarmac. The specific procedures for unaccompanied minors vary by airline, and some airlines may not allow unaccompanied minors on international flights. It is good to carry a copy of the child's complete itinerary, important phone numbers, and other relevant documents.
It is important to note that the TSA strongly encourages travellers to check the list of acceptable IDs before travelling and to contact the airline to understand their specific ID requirements for travellers under 18.
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TSA PreCheck for children
Generally, children under 18 do not need to provide identification when travelling within the United States. However, if an unaccompanied minor is eligible for TSA PreCheck, they must show an acceptable ID to receive expedited screening. The list of acceptable IDs is subject to change, but generally includes a REAL ID-compliant driver's license, a state-issued Enhanced Driver's License (EDL), a U.S. passport, a U.S. passport card, or a DHS trusted traveller card.
When travelling as a family, children 17 and under are eligible for TSA PreCheck without needing their own Known Traveller Number (KTN). The child does not need to have the TSA PreCheck indicator on their boarding pass to accompany their family in the TSA PreCheck lane. However, if the child is on a separate airline reservation, they will not be able to access TSA PreCheck unless they have their own KTN.
To get the TSA PreCheck indicator on a child's boarding pass, the adult and child must be on the same airline reservation, and the adult's boarding pass must have the TSA PreCheck indicator. If the child does not have their own KTN, the KTN field should be left blank.
It is important to note that TSA PreCheck passengers who present a state-issued identification that is not REAL ID-compliant and do not have another acceptable alternative form of ID will be notified of their non-compliance and may be directed to a separate area for additional screening.
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Documents for unaccompanied minors
A child's passport card can be used at an airport. However, it is important to note that the TSA strongly encourages travellers to check the list of acceptable IDs before travelling to ensure they have the correct documentation.
When it comes to documents for unaccompanied minors, there are several things to keep in mind. Firstly, it is important to contact the airline, as each airline may have specific requirements and procedures for unaccompanied minors. In general, unaccompanied minors will need to provide proof of identity and age, such as a birth certificate or passport. They may also need to provide proof of citizenship or residency, such as a citizenship card or a photocopy of their citizenship evidence.
In addition to these documents, it is recommended that unaccompanied minors have a copy of their complete itinerary, including flight dates and times, flight numbers, airport names, city names, and their reservation code. They should also have important phone numbers with them, such as the phone numbers of their parents or guardians, as well as the number of the person meeting them at their final destination.
For international travel, there may be additional requirements. Unaccompanied minors may need to present a letter of consent from their parents or guardians, especially if they are travelling with only one custodial parent or guardian. This letter should be preferably in English and notarized, and it should state that the parent or guardian gives permission for the child to travel outside the country with the specified adult. For travel to certain countries, such as Brazil and Italy, there may be additional documentation requirements, so it is important to check with the relevant embassy or consulate.
Finally, some airlines may require unaccompanied minors to use their unaccompanied minor service, which may incur an additional fee. This service typically includes supervision and assistance from airline staff during the flight and at the departure and arrival airports. It is recommended that parents or guardians accompany their child to the departure gate and stay until the flight is airborne.
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Child Travel Consent Forms
A child's passport card can be used at an airport, but it is sent via First Class Mail and can take up to four weeks to arrive. It is important to note that a passport book, which is sent via a trackable delivery service, may be a faster option if you need the passport sooner.
Now, here is some information on Child Travel Consent Forms:
When a child is travelling alone, with only one parent, or with a guardian, a written letter of consent, also known as a Child Travel Consent Form, may be required at the border. This letter should be notarized and preferably in English. If the child is travelling with only one custodial parent, the letter should be from the other parent, stating that they give permission for the child to travel with the specified adult. If the child is travelling with a guardian or alone, the letter should be signed by both parents. In the case of a parent with sole custody, it is advisable to carry a copy of the custody document.
For international travel, it is recommended to contact the embassy or consulate of the destination country to inquire about any specific requirements for letters of consent or other entry and exit procedures. Additionally, some airlines may require an unaccompanied minor form and a fee for their service, which includes an airline employee escort for the child. Proper identification and contact information may also be requested from the parent or guardian and the individual picking up the child at the destination.
To obtain a child's passport, both parents or guardians must provide physical photo identification and give approval. If one parent or guardian cannot be present during the application process, additional documents, such as Form DS-3053 and notarized statements, may be required. These statements can be electronically notarized if permitted by state law, and a printed copy must be submitted.
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Frequently asked questions
No, a child's passport card cannot be used for international air travel. A passport book is required for international flights.
Yes, a child's passport card can be used as a form of identification for domestic air travel within the United States.
For children under the age of 2, a birth certificate is usually required for domestic travel. Children over 15 may be able to use a school-issued ID or library card, but a government-issued ID or birth certificate is recommended.
All airlines require the same documentation for children as they do for adults on international flights. A valid passport is required for international air travel, and a visa may also be necessary.
