DS-3053 – Parental Consent Form

 

Applying for a “Child Passport” Requires Consent of Both Parents/Guardians

A Child passport requires both legal parents/guardians accompany the child to the Acceptance Agent (post offices, public libraries and other government offices approved to receive applications) when submitting the DS-11 Application for a U.S. Passport. If one parent/guardian (without sole legal custody) is applying for a child passport, a DS-3053 Parental Consent Form must be completed, including authorization by the non-applying parent or guardian to verify consent to a kid’s passport being issued for the minor child.

Completion of the DS-3053 By the Non-Applying Parent

It is possible for an individual parent/guardian to apply for a child passport for a minor child, but the non-applying parent must give their consent via a DS-3053 Parental Consent Form, for the application to be made. This form is available online for download and printing.

  • Use black ink when completing the form
  • Make certain all information entered is clear and legible
  • Errors or illegible writing on the form can cause delays
  • Actual consent by the non-applying parent/guardian is given in section 3 of the DS-3053 and must be signed by the non-applying parent/guardian in the presence of a notary.
  • In addition, a copy (front and back) of the identification provided to the notary must be included with the DS-3053 when it is being submitted).
  • Consent by the Non-Applying Parent (and notarization) cannot be greater than 90 days old.

When Written Consent from the Non-Applying Parent Cannot Be Obtained

If the non-applying parent is unavailable to provide consent, as in the case of incarceration, restraining orders, etc. a separate form must be completed, DS-5525 Statement of Exigent/Special Family Circumstances, which allows for a full explanation of the reasons for the non-applying parent being unavailable. Additional documentation can also be provided to support this fact. In the case of an inability to obtain the second consent, each case is reviewed separately. Approval of special family circumstances is at the discretion of the official agents and is not guaranteed.

In either case, when the non-applying parent cannot be present:

  • provision of clear, complete documentation
  • clear copies of identification used for the notarization of documents
  • a full understanding of requirements provides the best chance of obtaining the child’s passport.