Unaccompanied Minor Travel Consent Form

When a child flies alone, airlines treat them as an unaccompanied minor, and there is extra paperwork involved. Along with the airline’s own forms, a travel consent form from a parent or guardian helps confirm the trip is authorized and gives the airline staff and anyone meeting the child clear permission and contact details.

What is an unaccompanied minor?

An unaccompanied minor is a child traveling without a parent or guardian on the flight. Airlines have age rules and their own unaccompanied minor service, which usually includes staff supervision and handoff to an approved adult at the destination. A parental consent form supports that process and covers situations the airline form may not.

What your consent form should include

• The child’s full legal name, date of birth, and ID or passport details
• The parent or guardian giving permission, with signature
• The adult authorized to receive the child at the destination, and their contact info
• Flight and travel dates
• Emergency contact and medical authorization
• A notary acknowledgment block

Does it need to be notarized?

The airline’s own unaccompanied minor form is required, and a notarized parental consent form is a strong addition, especially for international flights. Notarizing proves the parent truly signed it. You can notarize online in minutes, from any state, before the flight.

Frequently asked questions

Is the airline form enough on its own?

For domestic flights it often is, but a notarized consent form adds protection and covers medical and pickup authorization the airline form may not.

Who can pick the child up?

Only the adult you name and authorize. List their full name and contact details on both the airline form and your consent form.

Can I notarize it online before the flight?

Yes. Online notarization is quick and available from any U.S. state.

This article is for general informational purposes and is not legal advice. Some links are referral links, and NotarEase NYC may earn a small credit at no extra cost to you. Airline and notarization rules vary; confirm your airline’s unaccompanied minor policy before you travel.