Do my children need to be present to get a passport?
Minors (Under 16 Years Old)
Yes. All minors who are 15 years old or younger must appear in person. In most cases, both parents or legal guardians must also be present to sign the application under oath. If one parent cannot be present, please review the requirements here and bring the appropriate forms to the appointment.
Minors (16–17 Years Old)
If your child is 16 or 17 years old, they must appear in person to apply for an adult passport, even if they had a passport as a child. They must also bring a filled-out Form DS-11 and all supporting documents, along with evidence that at least one parent/guardian knows they are applying for a passport. This evidence can include:
- A Parent/Guardian Attends the Appointment
- The legal parent/guardian will also sign Form DS-11 and must bring a photocopy of their ID (or have us make one for you).
- A Parent/Guardian Signs a Note
- The applicant brings a signed note from their legal parent/guardian stating they know their child is applying for a passport. They must also submit a photocopy of that parent or guardian’s ID.
- A Parent Pays the Fees
- The applicant submits a check or money order to the U.S. Department of State in the name of their legal parent or guardian.
Note: If it is unclear whether a parent/guardian is aware their child is applying, the U.S. Department of State may ask the applicant to submit a notarized statement Form DS-3053 from their parent or guardian. They will need to include a photocopy of that parent or guardian's ID.