Passport applicants who are 16-17 years old are still considered minors. Because of this, they need to submit special requirements on top of the regular documents needed to apply for a US passport. Now if you fall under this category, find out how to apply for a pass port in this article. Don’t worry, because we’ll keep it as clear, simple, yet detailed as possible.
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.
Basically, those are just the special requirements that you need to submit. Now on to the regular application requirements. If you are a first-time passport applicant, you will be required to fill in the DS-11 form. This is a standard form that is completed by anyone who’s applying for a new passport. This includes those who were issued their new passport application when they were under 16, or those who got their last passport more than 15 years ago.
Remember when filling in your DS-11 not to sign the form first. Wait until you are told to do so when you finally visit the passport agency or acceptance facility. Also, it is worth noting that since this is a first-time application, you will have to submit the DS-11 along with the other requirements in person at the passport office.
Aside from the DS-11, you will also need to establish your citizenship. There are certain documents that you can use to do this: your certificate of naturalization, your certified birth certificate, your latest passport, a certificate of citizenship, or a consular report if you were born abroad. The document you submit will be returned to after your passport has been processed. It will either be mailed with your passport or sent in a separate mailing.
You will then be required to present a proof of your identity. First, you will need to present your ID once you go to the passport office for your personal appearance. Also, you will have to present a photocopy of that ID. Rules for photocopies of your ID are strict so make sure you comply.
Two passport photos are also needed for your application. Make sure they are color photos, and that they follow all the specifications set by the passport office. Once you have all these requirements ready, you will be asked to pay the applicable fee for your application.
If you want to know how to apply for a U.S. passport if you’re 16-17, the answers you need have all been discussed here. Just make sure you’re careful about following rules when it comes to your passport application. This is important as it prevents you from wasting time when you’re asked to repeat the process all over again just because you missed something in the instructions.
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