Loading Page...

What documents does a 3 month old need to fly?

What documents do I need to fly with my infant? If you're traveling internationally, your baby will need a passport regardless of their age. For domestic travel, it's a good idea to bring a copy of your child's birth certificate in case you need to verify their age and/or your parental status.



For a 3-month-old infant to fly in 2026, the required documents depend on your destination. For domestic flights within the US, an infant generally does not require a photo ID. However, most airlines (like Southwest or Delta) require you to provide a certified copy of the birth certificate to verify the child is under two years old (especially if traveling as a "lap child"). Some airlines also accept a hospital-issued birth record for very young infants. For international flights, the rules are much stricter: every infant must have their own valid passport. Obtaining a passport for a 3-month-old requires both parents to appear in person at a passport agency with the baby. Additionally, if only one parent is traveling with the infant internationally, many countries require a notarized Letter of Consent from the non-traveling parent to prevent international parental child abduction. Lastly, you should always carry the baby’s immunization records, as some countries may require proof of specific vaccinations (like Polio or Yellow Fever) depending on where you are arriving from or transiting through.

People Also Ask

Babies (Newborn – 2 Years Old) If you have a baby that's not quite a newborn but under 2 (you can consider yourself safe if your child is around a month old), then you'll want to bring along a copy of your child's birth certificate (or a passport, if you have one) if you plan on flying with your child on your lap.

MORE DETAILS

Every US citizen, regardless of age, must have a passport to travel abroad. Newborn babies, infants, and toddlers all need a passport to leave and enter another country. Just as if an adult was applying for a passport, babies must have Form DS-11 filled out and submitted.

MORE DETAILS

Original or photocopies of government-issued identification (e.g., passport, birth certificate, government-issued photo identification card) are the only acceptable forms of proof of age. Electronic screen shots, phone images, or immunization records are not acceptable.

MORE DETAILS

Age: 0 to 2 Years Old
Unless your child already has a passport that can be used to prove their birth date, you may need to bring a copy of their birth certificate. While some airlines are more lenient than others, it's always best to come prepared.

MORE DETAILS

To allow enough time for check-in, arrive early and be sure to have any required travel documents. You may have to present proof of age like a birth certificate for any children under the age of 18. Families with children under 2 years old can ask to board early at the gate.

MORE DETAILS

Every US citizen, regardless of age, must have a passport to travel abroad. Newborn babies, infants, and toddlers all need a passport to leave and enter another country.

MORE DETAILS

Diaper bags, soft-sided cooler bags with breast milk, child safety seats, strollers and medical or mobility devices don't count toward your personal item or carry-on.

MORE DETAILS

The TSA will allow you to go through the metal detector while wearing your baby, although you may be asked to undergo an additional screening even if there is not an alarm. The additional screening will consist of having your hands swabbed for chemical residue, and potentially a pat-down.

MORE DETAILS

Young babies have not developed the ability to regularize their ear pressure by yawning or swallowing, so they don't know how to relieve the abrupt changes in pressure when the plane is taking off or landing. To prevent ear pain and discomfort, babies should wear ear protection whenever they're travelling on a plane.

MORE DETAILS

Standard strollers, folding wagons, and car seats can be used to get to your gate and then checked for free. They'll be returned to you on arrival. Collapsible strollers can be stored in-cabin. Car seats can be used onboard your flight too.

MORE DETAILS

37 Tips for Traveling With an Infant, Older Baby, or Toddler
  1. Update Immunizations. ...
  2. Consult Your Child's Healthcare Provider. ...
  3. Collect Medications and Important Documents. ...
  4. Do Some Research. ...
  5. Allow Extra Time. ...
  6. Bring Those Baby Essentials. ...
  7. Don't Forget Favorite Toys or Blankets. ...
  8. Double Check Car Seats.


MORE DETAILS

Planning your trip
  • Infants on lap. Children under two can sit on a parent's lap during flights to any destination.
  • Infant seats. Alternatively, infants can have their own seat if you bring an approved car seat.
  • All other kids. Children older than two will need a ticket and their own seat on the plane.


MORE DETAILS