Can a 16 year old get a passport without a parent?

Question: My 16 year old son has an expired passport ( exp. 3/ 15/ 2011.) My husband and I are in Tonga at the moment so we sent him back to the US before the passport expired. We sent him to renew or get a new one and they told him he needs a parents consent. I was under the impression that at 16 you did not need a parent. Anyways, what now? Thank you for your help asap.

Answer: Minors age 16 must appear with one parent in order to apply for a new passport. If a parent cannot appear, then a third party can appear with your son and submit notarized written statement or affidavit from both parents or guardians authorizing a third-party to apply for a passport. Contact the U.S. Virtual Presence Post in Tonga for information about notary services.

Click here to post comments.

Join in and write your own page! It's easy to do. How?
Simply click here to return to Passport for 16 or 17 Year Old FAQ.

Latest Passport & Travel Updates

Passport Requirements
List and description of documents required for citizens of the United States to obtain passports.

Passport Book vs. Passport Card
Learn the similarities and differences between the traditional passport book and the newer passport card.

Rush Passport Expediting
Requirements, fees and processing times for getting rush passport expediting.

Multiple Entry Visa Information
What is a multiple entry visa and how do you apply for one. Get the general requirements for obtainings visas with multiple entries.

A Day in the Life of a Tourist in San Juan
You wake up at your resort and look at the stunning view of Condado Beach. Even though it's early, children are already playing in the sand. The waves ...

Playa del Carmen, Mexico - The Perfect Tropical Paradise for Your Vacation
Discover why Playa del Carmen is such a popular vacation spot for any season of the year. Find out what to do and see as well as where to stay in this lush tropical paradise of MexicoÂ´s Mayan Riviera.

Ein Bokek at the Dead Sea Israel
Ein Bokek - A fabulous oasis in the desert and a magnet for health seekers and tourists alike. Ein Bokek is located on the southwestern shore of the ...