Passport requirements for taking DCs to Canada by car

I'm spending a lot of time upstate with my folks while the house is being renovated this summer, and we'll be taking several trips to Canada with the kids.

I understand they need a passport, but what do I need to know before we apply for them? Do both parents need to be present for the application? How long does it take to get the passport (I'm worried about sending their birth certificates with the applications)....

And then when I'm crossing the border, DH won't be with us for a few of the trips -- should I get our lawyers to draft a letter for him to sign that allows me to take the DCs with me (but without DH)?

TIA.

Re: Passport requirements for taking DCs to Canada by car

Here's a LINK to the Dept of State page about passports for minors.

It seems both parents and the child must go to the passport office or acceptance facility to apply for a passport. Although, passports are not required for children under the age of 16 to go to Canada. You would just need their certified birth certificate.


HTH!