A Child Travel Consent form is a letter of permission granting authorization for a child to travel:

• Alone
• With an adult who is not a guardian or parent
• With a group, such as on a school trip
• With one parent, when the parents are divorced or separated

Parents of minors who will be traveling alone, on a trip with a guardian who is not a parent (grandparent, family friend, aunt or uncle, teacher), or with one parent, should use a travel consent letter to eliminate any hassles with traveling and to provide official documentation should the airline or immigration officials ask for proof of permission.

• List your child's information, including the minor's name, birth date, and any special needs or allergies
• Name the parent, guardian, or group the child is traveling with and his or her contact information
• Add a description of the child's travel destination
• Get the permission letter notarized or witnessed to increase its authenticity. If your child is traveling alone, the consent letter needs to be signed by both parents

Whenever a child is traveling, safety is of the utmost concern. For identification purposes, your child should carry the following when traveling:

• Passport and/or birth certificate
• Proof of relationship to parent or guardian, such as an adoption decree or court order. A birth certificate may also serve the same purpose.
• Travel documentation, such as the name and address of accommodations and the purpose for traveling.
• Child Medical Consent form, if applicable, authorizing a guardian to make medical decisions on your behalf for your child.