How to Travel with Children Who Do Not Share a Last Name

Do you intend to journey far this year? We will go over how to get through security if you and your children do not share a last name.

Here’s what we will talk about:

Domestic and International Travel

Traveling with children can be difficult due to the additional baggage, interrupted routines, and hours passed waiting at the airport. However, there is one problem that some parents do not anticipate: going through security when you do not share a last name with your own children or planning to have a child travel with another adult who is not their parent.

It is a situation that is becoming more prevalent. Maybe you gave the kids your partner’s last name but retained your own, or you gave them a mixed name. Perhaps you are a stepparent or other formal caretaker, or you are an instructor who is going with children who are not connected to you. It is completely legal, but if you do not plan ahead of time and arrive equipped, you may encounter problems with security and customs.

But do not fear, we have got your back. We have compiled our best tips for effectively handling airport obstacles so you and your kid can have a pleasant journey.

Travel within the United States

Domestic travel for children has less strict ID and permission standards than foreign travel, but it is still a good idea to come equipped with papers in case of a problem. The child’s ID and a permission paper from their formal caregiver are the two most essential records.

ID: The TSA does not require children under the age of 18 to display identification when flying within the United States with an adult partner, but some carriers do. So, before you go to the airport, verify with your carrier about minor ID regulations, particularly if your kid will be flying alone. A duplicate of your child’s birth certificate serves as evidence of age, identification, and parentage, particularly if you do not share a last name. If your kid is mature enough, a DMV ID, similar to a driver’s license, is also recognized almost everywhere.
Consent Forms: You do not need a parental consent form from your kid’s other parent to fly if you are going alone with your own child on a local trip. However, if you do not share a last name with your kid, keep a duplicate of the child’s birth document on hand to establish your connection. If you are traveling with another person’s kid and the parents are not present, be prepared to show paperwork proving that you have authorization to travel together. There is no formal permission document, so you must create one on your own. A completed and stamped permission document from the child’s parent or parents, such as our Child Travel permission Form, is recommended. Include the child’s identity, the name of the partner, the times of travel, the location, the parents’ names and contact information, and a declaration from the parents. A permission statement is unlikely to be requested on a local trip, but it is wise to have just in case.

Traveling internationally

Children going abroad must provide more identification and permission than local passengers. These rules are in place to prevent familial kidnapping and other forms of child theft, so while collecting the required papers may be time-consuming, keep in mind that they serve a vital purpose.

Passports: Passports are needed for all children going abroad, regardless of age or whether they are traveling alone, with a guardian, or with another adult partner. Children must register in person for a passport, and their parent or legal caregiver must complete the necessary papers in front of a passport clerk. If the kid has more than one father or legal caregiver, the second must be present or file a signed Statement of Consent: DS-3053 form.
Forms of Consent: Unlike local trips, foreign journeys require the presence or approval of the child’s other parent or legal caregiver. Even if you are traveling together, it is a good idea to bring completed and stamped permission papers with you in case you get split. Again, there is no formal permission document, but any completed and stamped consent statement, such as our Child Travel permission document, will suffice.

If you and your kid do not share a last name, bring a certified duplicate of the child’s birth document to show that you are the child’s father. Bring certified copies of any adoption papers or formal custody paperwork that pertain to your case. Bring a certified duplicate of the evidence of name change if your name on the child’s birth certificate, adoption certificate, or custody papers does not match the current name on your passport. (such as a court order or marriage license).

Bring completed and stamped permission papers from the child’s parents or legal caretakers if you are going with a kid who is not yours. The criteria for consent forms differ by location, so you may not be required to present them, but it is always best to be cautious than regretful.

Traveling with your children can be a fantastic way for them to see the world, try new things, and learn about various locations and countries. As long as you plan ahead of time and have all of your papers in order, you should be ready for any inquiries at security or immigration and well on your way to having a good time.