If one custodial parent is not able to attend, s/he must submit a notarized Form DS-3053 Statement of Consent. The form can be downloaded here (PDF42KB).  At the time the DS-3053 form is presented, a copy of the same identity document used to notarize the form must also be provided.

Alternatively, the applying parent may furnish one of the following documents:

• Child’s birth certificate listing only applying parent;
• Adoption decree (if applying parent is sole adopting parent);
• Court Order granting sole custody to the applying parent (i.e the absent parent has no access to the child).  Child’s travel must not be restricted by that order;
• Court order authorizing the applying parent to apply for the child’s passport without the consent of the non-applying parent.
• Judicial declaration of incompetence of non-applying parent, or death certificate of non-applying parent.

Note: All documents not in English will need to be submitted together with a full professional translation.

Minors ages 16-17 with their own identification can apply for a passport by themselves.  However, it is recommended that at least one parent appear in person with the minor to identify him/her and to show parental awareness.

NOTE:  Although the two-parent consent requirement does not apply to minors aged 16 or 17, per Department regulations a passport generally will not be issued to a minor if a parent or legal guardian who has custodial rights over a minor has notified the Department in writing that he or she objects to issuance of the passport.

Examples of Parental Awareness

• Having a parent accompany the minor when applying, or
• A signed statement consenting to issuance of a passport from at least one parent (should be accompanied by a photocopy of that parent’s ID).