Last checked: November 14, 2026. Every fact on this page comes from the official sources listed at the bottom.
Not legal advice. This page is a plain-language summary of official rules for general information. Rules change and individual situations differ. Always confirm with the official source linked below before you travel.
At a glance
| Trip | What officials say | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Domestic US flight | TSA does not require ID for children under 18. Airlines may have their own rules. | TSA |
| Getting a passport for a child under 16 | Both parents or guardians appear in person, or the absent parent signs a notarized Form DS-3053 (valid 90 days). | US Department of State |
| Leaving the US | Children need their own passport and any visa. Some countries require a consent letter from the parent who is not traveling, sometimes notarized. Check with that country's embassy or consulate. | CBP |
| US rules on parental permission | The US does not require evidence of both parents' permission for a minor to travel internationally, but some countries do. | US Department of State |
| Entering Canada | See the Canada checklist below. | Government of Canada |
Canada checklist: a child traveling with one parent
The traveling parent should carry:
| Document | Details |
|---|---|
| The child's passport | A parent's passport cannot be used for the child. |
| A copy of the child's birth certificate | |
| A letter of authorization from the parent who is not traveling | In English or French if possible, with that parent's address and phone number, plus a photocopy of their signed passport or national ID card. |
| Shared custody | Copies of the legal custody documents, and a letter from the other parent. |
| Sole custody | The letter can be signed by that parent alone; bring a copy of the custody decree. |
| A parent has died | A copy of the death certificate. |
Canada says officers may not ask for these papers, but strongly recommends bringing them. A child will not be admitted if the officer is not convinced the parents have authorized the trip.
Other countries
Requirements differ by country. Before you book, check the embassy or consulate of each country you will visit, as CBP advises. If custody is in question, talk to a family-law attorney.
Official sources
- TSA: Identification (children)
- US Department of State: Form DS-3053, Statement of Consent (PDF, read directly)
- CBP Help Center: Children traveling to another country without their parents (Article 1375, published Feb 13, 2026)
- US Department of State: Travel with Minors
- Government of Canada: Minor children travelling to Canada
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