By Perkins Road Notary
If your child will travel with grandparents, relatives, or another adult, plan for both the trip and any care decisions while you are away. A travel-consent letter and a Louisiana provisional custody by mandate serve different purposes.
Travel consent addresses the trip
A consent letter can identify the child, accompanying adult, travel dates, destination, and parent or guardian granting permission. Before preparing it, ask the airline, cruise line, travel organizer, and destination authorities what they require. International travel may involve additional passport, entry, and consent requirements. A notarized letter does not replace those requirements.
Provisional custody addresses temporary care
Louisiana law allows a person with parental authority to delegate provisional custody by a written mandate. Other provisions address certain natural tutors and grandparents with custody. The correct form depends on who has authority over the child and the family’s circumstances.
The mandate can provide authority for the child’s health, education, and welfare, including consenting to necessary medical care. Its stated term cannot exceed one year, and it can end sooner under the law. It does not create permanent custody or override an existing court order.
Bring the details before signing
The child’s full name and identifying information.
The names and contact information of the parent or authorized custodian and temporary caregiver.
Travel dates, destination, and the authority you want the caregiver to have.
Current custody or tutorship orders and any required carrier form.
Current identification for the people who will sign.
Call ahead to confirm who must attend and whether witnesses or additional documents are needed. Where parents disagree, custody is disputed, or a court order limits someone’s authority, obtain legal advice before signing.
Prepare the caregiver too
Give the caregiver the completed documents, emergency contacts, medical information they need, and instructions for reaching you. Ask the medical provider or school whether it needs its own form. Keep copies available during the trip.
Official sources
Louisiana Revised Statutes 9:951, 9:952, 9:953, and 9:961.
Get help in Baton Rouge
Call Perkins Road Notary at (225) 341-3828 or visit 6161 Perkins Road, Suite 1C, Baton Rouge. See our notary services. Curbside service is available at our office; call when you arrive. We do not provide mobile visits.
Updated October 8, 2026: This article was revised to reflect current Louisiana law, agency procedures, and Perkins Road Notary service information, as applicable.