Passports

U.S. Passport Issuance for children under 16 years of Age

For children under 16, both parents must be present with photo identification to sign the passport application. The parents should present photo identification for themselves. Use form DS-11.

The Department of State has amended the rule requiring the consent of both parents to obtain a passport for a minor child. In the past, when only one parent has appeared at the Embassy or Consulate to apply for the minor's passport, we required a written statement of consent from the other parent. Starting November 1, 2004, the Department will require that such statements be notarized.

We still strongly prefer that both parents appear. We will, however, accept a statement from the parent who does not appear, as long as it is notarized. The notarized statement of consent must indicate that parent's unequivocal consent to passport issuance. Statements notarized by foreign officials will be accepted but must be in English.

Applying parents may use the form supplied by the Department of State (form DS-3053, Statement of Consent - Issuance of a Passport to a Minor Under Age 16) which should be notarized or an affidavit of their own. If one parent has sole custody, he/she must submit evidence of the same. Children of 16 years of age or above can sign their own application form. Minors under age 16 get a 5 years passport.