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Can I renew a passport issued for a minor who is now 16?

Question: My son's passport was issued when he was 11. He is now 16. Can I renew that passport or do I now apply for a passport for him as an adult? I think, from reading the website info, that applying as an adult is the right answer, but I want to confirm (because that seems to cost more).

Answer: You are correct. Passports issued to minors cannot be renewed by mail. At age 16, your son will apply for a new passport in the same manner as adults do with the following considerations.

All Minors Age 16 and 17 shall:

* 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 (applicant or parent/guardian).

* 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)

The application fee for an applicant age 16 and up is $110 (paid to the Department of State) and the execution fee is $25 (paid to agent at passport application acceptance facility). It takes 4-5 weeks to process applications. Expedited service takes 2-3 weeks but costs an additional $60.

For faster service, schedule an appointment at a regional processing center or apply for the services of an authorized expediter such as Fastport Passport.

Comments for Can I renew a passport issued for a minor who is now 16?

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s it possible to renew?
by: anonymous

Question: Hi, is it OK if I waited more years until he reaches the age of 16 years old and only 1 parent will accompany? We are here now in the Philippines. Thank you and I need your advice.

Answer: Yes, you can wait until your child turns 16 to apply for his new passport. Please note that passports issued to minors cannot be renewed. Your child will need to apply in person for his new 'adult' passport.

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About the Author: For over 20 years, the U.S. Passport Service Guide team has helped hundreds of thousands of travelers with their travel document questions and shared advice about how to make traveling abroad simpler, safer, and more enjoyable.

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