A parent who frequently crosses the border by land with a minor should always carry a letter of permission from the other parent. A parent with sole custody of the child they are traveling with should carry a copy of the custody document.
Do you need a notarized letter to travel with a child alone? In most cases of a single parent traveling out of the country with their child, the answer is yes you do need a notarized consent to travel letter. You can download your own customizable travel consent letter here.
How do I write a consent letter for my child to travel? List your child's name, birth date/place, and passport details. Provide the parent's/guardian's name, custody information, and passport details. Add contact information for the non-traveling parents/guardians. Detail the child's destination and dates of travel.
No. One needs a valid passport to travel internationally. A birth certificate is no substitute and ads nothing.
In the USA, though, unless there's a court order requiring permission from both parents, a child may travel (even to overseas) with either parent/guardian without showing proof of permission from the other parent.
Checklist for Flying with an Infant Birth Certificate. Passport (if flying internationally). Global Entry Card (if you use that service). Proper Clothes. Blanket. Breastmilk or Formula (plus accompanying bottles and s). Diapers, wipes, and changing pad. Hand Sanitizer (wipes or mini bottles)
You should obtain a child travel consent letter granting you permission from the absent parent to leave the country with your child (having it notarized is not required, but highly recommended).
Can the Child (Minor) Travel Consent be notarized online? Yes. Online notarization of the Child (Minor) Travel Consent is completely legal and secure. Your documents can be notarized online in minutes through the Notarize Network, starting at $25.