Can a minor that is 16 years old get a passport with only the consent of one parent?

by Cristina
(Texas)

Question: The father of my child has not been in her life for over 10 years and I want to know if she can get her passport with only my consent.

Answer: It is possible but there is no guarantee that your child can get a passport without the consent of the father. Special requirements determined by the U.S. Department of State for minors age 16 and 17 are as follows:

* Appear in person at the time of application

* Have a parent or guardian present photo identification if the minor does not have identification of his or her own

* Provide a photocopy of the same ID document that will be presented at the time of application

* Establish parental consent (You may be requested to provide written parental consent for a child age 16 or 17 if it is not implied on the application)

Being present at the time your child applies may "imply" parental approval.

If the passport agent requests that you prove the father's consent, you will have to provide it unless his name is not on the birth certificate or you have proof of sole legal custody.

If you do not know the whereabouts of the father and have no way to contact him, you can complete the "Special Circumstances" section of the parent consent form.

As a last resource, you can apply for a court order that would permit your child to obtain a passport and travel internationally without the consent of the father.

For complete instructions on how to get a passport, click the link below.

How to Get a New Passport