Between extra luggage, disrupted schedules, and waiting time at the airport, traveling with children can be a challenge. But some parents don’t see a problem: pass a security check when you don’t have the same surname as your child, or plan to let your child travel with another adult who is not their parent.

This is an increasingly common scenario. Maybe you gave the children your partner’s last name, but kept your own last name, or gave them a mixed new name. Maybe you are a stepparent or other legal guardian, or even a teacher traveling with a child who has nothing to do with you. This is completely legal, but if you do not plan and prepare in advance, you may encounter security and customs barriers.

But don’t worry-we have already provided you with protection. Below, we will share our best suggestions for successfully passing obstacles at the airport so that you and your children can have a smooth and enjoyable trip.

Domestic travel

Compared with children traveling internationally, children traveling domestically have less stringent ID and consent requirements, but it is still a good idea to prepare documents in case you encounter problems. The two most important documents are the child’s ID card and the consent form of their legal guardian.

• ID: TSA does not require minors under the age of 18 to show identification when traveling with an adult companion in the United States, but some airlines do. Therefore, before you arrive at the airport, be sure to check with your airline about the minor’s ID requirements-especially if your child will travel alone. The copy of your child’s birth certificate has a three-fold function. It can be used as a proof of age, identification and that you are the child’s parent, especially if you do not share a surname. If your child is old enough to have one, a DMV ID (such as a driver’s license) can be used almost everywhere.
• consent: If you take a domestic flight with your child alone, you can fly without the parental consent of your child’s other parent. However, if you do not share the surname with your child, it is best to have a copy of the child’s birth certificate on hand to prove your relationship. If you are traveling with other people’s children and your parents are not with you, be prepared to show the documents that you have the right to travel together. There is no formal consent form, so you need to make one yourself.We recommend the signed and notarized consent form of the child’s parents or parents, such as our Child Travel Consent FormBe sure to include the child’s name, companion’s name, travel date, destination, parent’s name and contact information, and the parent’s permission statement. On domestic flights, you may never be required to provide consent, but it is good just in case.

International travel

Compared with domestic travelers, children traveling internationally need to comply with more identity documents and consent requirements. These rules are made to prevent parental kidnapping and other forms of child kidnapping, so although collecting the necessary documents can be troublesome, remember that they have important uses.

• passport: Minors need a passport to travel abroad, no matter how young they are, whether they travel alone, with their parents, or with other adult companions. Children must apply for a passport in person, and their parents or legal guardians must sign the required forms in front of the passport agent.If the child has more than one parent or legal guardian, the second parent or guardian must be present or submit a notarized Declaration of Consent: Form DS-3053.
• consent: Unlike domestic flights, you cannot take your children on international flights without the presence or permission of other parents or legal guardians. In fact, even if you are flying together, it is best for everyone to bring a signed and notarized consent form in case you separate.Similarly, there is no formal consent form, but you can use any signed and notarized consent form, such as our Child Travel Consent Form.

If you do not have the same surname as your child, please bring a notarized copy of your child’s birth certificate to prove that you are the child’s parent. If the adoption certificate or legal guardianship document applies to your situation, please also bring a notarized copy. If your name on your child’s birth certificate, adoption certificate, or guardianship document does not match the current name on your passport, please bring a notarized copy of the name change certificate (such as a court order or marriage certificate).

If you are traveling with a child who is not yours, please bring the signed and notarized consent form of the child’s parent or legal guardian. Consent requirements vary by destination, so you may not be asked to show them, but it’s better to be safe than sorry.

Traveling with your children is a wonderful way to see the world, get new experiences, and learn about different places and cultures. As long as you plan ahead and prepare your paperwork, you should be prepared to encounter any problems at security or customs and be prepared on the way to enjoy the adventure.

Amanda Gordon is Rocket Lawyer On Call® And a family lawyer in the San Francisco Bay Area, California Amanda focuses on all aspects of family law, including divorce, child custody, parenting and parenting planning. Amanda’s professional mission is to put the family first.to know more information gordonfamilylaw.com.

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