Are Both Parents Needed For Passport? | Minor Passport Rules

For a minor’s passport, generally, both parents must provide consent, either by applying together or with documented consent from the absent parent.

Planning international travel with children brings a unique set of considerations, and obtaining their passport is often the first step. Navigating the requirements for minors can feel like a puzzle, especially when it comes to parental consent, but understanding the rules makes the process smooth and stress-free.

Understanding the Two-Parent Consent Rule

The primary reason for requiring both parents’ consent for a minor’s passport is to prevent international parental child abduction. This safeguard ensures that both legal parents are aware of and agree to the child traveling internationally, providing a layer of protection for children.

This rule specifically applies to children under 16 years old. For minors aged 16 and 17, only one parent or legal guardian is required to apply, though the State Department may request the second parent’s consent or awareness. It is always best practice to have both parents present or provide consent whenever possible.

When Both Parents Apply Together

The most straightforward way to apply for a minor’s passport is when both parents or legal guardians are present at the acceptance facility with the child. This scenario simplifies the process considerably, as direct consent is given on the spot.

During the application appointment, both parents will sign the DS-11 application form in front of the acceptance agent. They will also need to provide valid identification and proof of their parental relationship to the child.

Required Documents for Joint Application

• Completed, but unsigned, Form DS-11: Application for a U.S. Passport.
• Child’s original proof of U.S. citizenship (e.g., original birth certificate, previous passport).
• Child’s passport photos (must meet specific requirements).
• Proof of parental relationship (e.g., child’s birth certificate listing both parents).
• Valid government-issued identification for both parents (e.g., driver’s license, state ID).

Applying with Only One Parent Present

There are common situations where only one parent can attend the passport application appointment. In these cases, specific procedures are in place to ensure the absent parent’s consent is properly documented and verified.

The most common method involves the absent parent providing a notarized Statement of Consent, Form DS-3053. This form confirms their permission for the child to obtain a passport.

Using Form DS-3053: Statement of Consent

The DS-3053 form must be completed and signed by the non-applying parent in front of a notary public. A copy of the non-applying parent’s government-issued identification (front and back) must also be submitted with the form.

The notarized DS-3053 form must be dated within three months of the application submission. This ensures the consent is current. The applying parent brings this notarized form, along with their own identification and the child’s documents, to the appointment.

Parental Consent Scenarios for Minor Passports

Scenario	Required Action	Key Document
Both Parents Present	Both sign DS-11 at appointment	N/A
One Parent Present, Other Consents	Present notarized DS-3053	Form DS-3053 & ID copy
One Parent Sole Custody	Present certified court order	Certified Court Order

Situations Requiring Only One Parent’s Signature

While the two-parent consent rule is standard, certain circumstances allow one parent to apply for a minor’s passport without the other parent’s explicit consent. These exceptions are typically supported by official legal documentation.

These situations are designed to accommodate families with varying legal structures while still safeguarding the child’s welfare.

Specific Exceptions to Two-Parent Consent

1. Sole Legal Custody: If one parent has sole legal custody of the child, they can apply for the passport alone. A certified copy of the court order granting sole legal custody must be presented with the application. The order must specifically state that the applying parent has the authority to obtain a passport for the child.
2. Death of Other Parent: If one parent is deceased, the surviving parent can apply alone. A certified copy of the deceased parent’s death certificate must be submitted with the application.
3. Court Order Permitting One Parent to Apply: A court order specifically permitting the applying parent to obtain the child’s passport without the other parent’s consent is acceptable. This order must be certified.
4. Inability to Locate the Other Parent: If one parent cannot be located, the applying parent can submit Form DS-5525, “Statement of Exigent/Special Family Circumstances.” This form explains in detail the efforts made to contact the absent parent and why their consent cannot be obtained. This is reviewed on a case-by-case basis.

Documents Essential for a Minor’s Passport

Regardless of the parental consent scenario, several core documents are always required when applying for a minor’s passport. Gathering these in advance streamlines the entire process.

Accuracy and completeness of these documents are paramount to avoid delays. The U.S. Department of State provides comprehensive guidelines on all required documentation for minor passport applications.

Key Documentation Checklist

• Application Form DS-11: This form must be filled out completely but signed only in front of the acceptance agent.
• Proof of U.S. Citizenship: An original or certified copy of the child’s birth certificate (with a raised seal), a previous U.S. passport, or a Consular Report of Birth Abroad. These documents will be returned to you.
• Proof of Parental Relationship: Typically, the child’s original birth certificate serves this purpose, showing the names of both parents. Adoption decrees or court orders establishing guardianship also work.
• Parental Identification: Valid, government-issued identification for all applying parents, such as a driver’s license or state ID. Copies of the front and back of these IDs are usually required.
• Passport Photos: One recent color photograph of the child, meeting specific size and background requirements. No glasses are permitted.
• Evidence of Parental Consent: This includes the notarized DS-3053 if one parent is absent, or certified court orders/death certificates for exceptions.

Essential Documents for Minor Passport Application

Document Type	Specific Item	Purpose
Application Form	DS-11	Official request for passport
Citizenship Proof	Original Birth Certificate	Establishes child’s U.S. citizenship
Parental ID	Valid Driver’s License	Verifies parent’s identity
Consent Proof	DS-3053 (if applicable)	Absent parent’s permission

The Application Process: Step-by-Step

Once all documents are gathered, the application process involves a few key steps to ensure everything is submitted correctly. This process must be done in person for all minor passport applications.

Appointments are generally required, so planning ahead is beneficial, especially during peak travel seasons.

Steps to Apply for a Minor’s Passport

1. Complete Form DS-11: Fill out the application form online or by hand. Do not sign it yet.
2. Gather Supporting Documents: Collect the child’s proof of citizenship, parental identification, proof of parental relationship, and any necessary consent forms (DS-3053, court orders).
3. Obtain Passport Photos: Get a compliant passport photo for the child. Many pharmacies and photo studios offer this service.
4. Schedule an Appointment: Locate a passport acceptance facility, such as a post office or clerk of courts, and schedule an appointment.
5. Attend the Appointment: All required individuals (child, applying parent(s)) must attend. Present all documents to the acceptance agent, sign the DS-11, and pay the fees.
6. Track Your Application: You will receive a tracking number to monitor the status of the passport application online.

Renewing a Minor’s Passport

Minor passports are valid for five years. When it’s time to renew, the process is not simply a renewal by mail. A minor’s passport cannot be renewed using the DS-82 form, which is for adult renewals.

Instead, renewing a minor’s passport requires submitting a new DS-11 application and following the exact same in-person application process as the initial application. This means both parents’ consent, or an exception, is needed again.