Form DS-3053 is required when one parent or guardian who does not have sole legal custody applies for a minor's passport
since the general rule requires the signature of both parents.
The instructions are pretty straight-forward and easy to understand. There are three steps to the process.
STEP 1: Complete and Print Form
Applicants should use black ink to complete Form DS-3053. Information provided on this form should be complete and correct. Errors on the application or illegible writing can lead to delays in the process.
If you are the non-applying parent or guardian who is
consenting to the issuance of a passport for your minor child, you
should complete item 4. Complete the part but it must be signed in front of a notary public.
Click the link to open the form in PDF format: Form DS-3053: Statement of Consent or Special Circumstance for Minor Passport (PDF).
STEP 2: Get Form DS-3053 Notarized & Submit Photocopy of the ID (Only with Statement of Consent)
It is only necessary to complete step 2 if you are submitting Form DS-3053 as a Statement of Consent. When used as a Statement of Special Circumstances, it is not necessary to have the form notarized. If you are a non-applying parent or guardian consenting to the issuance of a passport for a minor child, you must:
STEP 3: Submit Form DS-3053 with Completed Form DS-11 and Supporting Documents
In all cases, Form DS-3053 must be submitted along with Form DS-11: Application for a New U.S. Passport and required supporting documents at an application acceptance facility or, in cases of urgent travel needs, a regional passport agency.
A Statement of Consent from a non-applying parent or guardian must be submitted with the minor's passport application within 3 months of the date it was notarized to be valid. A new, notarized Statement of Consent from the non-applying parent will be required for future applications.
Answers to frequently asked questions about getting passport for minors.
Instructions for obtaining a passport for a minor age 15 or younger
Can one parent apply without the consent of the other parent?
Click here to expedite a minor's passport in 24-48 hours.
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