What Is A Child Travel Consent Form? (2026)
Contributor
Reviewed By Adam Ramirez, J.D.
Editor
Summary
- If a child travels without a parent, they need a travel consent form
- The consent form does not usually need to be signed by both parents
- If traveling internationally, have the document notarized
If you’re planning on traveling with your child but without the other parent or legal guardian, either domestically or internationally, you will need a child travel consent form to do so legally. But what is a child travel consent form, and what should it include?
What Is a Child Travel Consent Form?
When getting ready to travel with your child, there are a few steps that you may want to take to protect yourself, your child and the other parent, including:
- Review your will for parents of minors.
- Assess your healthcare directive.
- Prepare a child travel consent form.
Having all of these documents can ensure that you’re covered should any emergency arise, but the child travel consent form is especially vital. It gives permission for the child to travel with one parent or guardian, or alone. The goal of this document is to prevent child abductions and verify that there’s parental approval when crossing a border.
What to Include in a Minor Travel Consent Form
The child travel consent form should contain the child’s information, including their full name, birthdate and passport information. If there’s an accompanying person, the form should offer all information on that party, too.
The document must contain full itineraries, including where the child will be each day, as well as parental information so that contacting them is easier, should it be necessary.
When Is a Travel Consent Form Required?
A child travel consent form is required when someone under 18 travels domestically or internationally without both parents or legal guardians accompanying them. This is the case whether they’re traveling with one parent, a group or alone.
Going on school trips, for example, requires these forms, as do trips involving non-custodial adults, like grandparents.
Does a Travel Consent Form Need to Be Notarized?
For domestic travel, it’s typically not required for you to notarize the form, but it is recommended. Notarization proves that the signatures are valid and could save you trouble. For international travel, you will usually need to have the form notarized.
Do Both Parents Need to Sign the Consent Form?
When traveling nationally, the United States does not require both parents to sign the form. Some other countries, however, might. If possible, getting both parental signatures on the form can be the safest course of action.
Ensuring Safer Travels With the Right Forms
To help your child travel safely, having the right paperwork prepared is vital. When you take the time to prepare these forms beforehand, you can keep stress to a minimum and make your next trip simpler.
