emmett travel

5 February 2010 Passports 341 views No Comment Print This Post  Email This Post

Minors applying for a US passport need to submit special requirements aside from the regular requirements submitted by everyone applying for passports. Minors who are 16-17 years old have a slightly different set of special requirements from those who are under 16 years old. So if you’re a passport 16-17 applicant who wants to know how to apply for a passport, read this.

First, let’s tackle the special requirements. These requirements actually have more to do with the parents or guardians rather than the applicant himself/herself. For one, the parents should provide their own photo identification if the applicant doesn’t have one. Aside from that, the parent or guardian should also present a photocopy of this identification during the application. Then, finally, a written parental consent is required should it not be implied in the application. Again, remember that you need to accomplish these requirements along with the regular ones.

After dealing with these requirements, let’s now move on to the routine requirements that you need to submit. For first-time passport applicants, the Form DS-11 is what you’ll need to fill in. Aside from first time applicants, this is also the same form used by those who were under 16 when they were issued their last passport, or those whose passports were issued more than 15 years ago.

Applicants filling the DS-11 are required to submit this document along with the other requirements in person. You should take note that even if you have already completed this form, you must not sign it yet. You should wait for the instruction to do so once you are already at the passport office.

You also need to establish your citizenship when applying for a passport. You can submit any of the following documents to do this: a certified birth certificate, your latest passport, your certificate of naturalization, your certificate of citizenship, or a consular report if you were born outside the US. The document you submit will be returned to you once your passport has been processed. It is usually mailed with your passport, although sometimes it may be mailed separately.

Aside from your citizenship, you will also need to establish your identity. Here’s how to do it. First, create a photocopy of your ID and submit it to the passport office along with the requirements. You must also bring the original ID with you when you finally submit all your passport application requirements. Take note that there are very specific guidelines to having your ID photocopied, from the paper used to what should be on the paper, so make sure you follow them to the letter.

Then you must submit two color pictures of yourself. Make sure the photos are recent. Also make sure they follow the guidelines set by the Department of State regarding the photos to submit. For one, you shouldn’t wear any headgear or hat in your picture, among other specifications. Once you have done all these, you can now submit your passport application and pay the applicable fees.

There you have it, all the basic things you need to know about how to get a how to apply for a passport application if you’re 16-17 years old. These USA passport guidelines are up to date and very specific, so make sure you understand them and follow them to the letter. You’ll save yourself time if you have everything ready before submitting the application.