Print out form DS-11: Application for a U.S. Passport from the U.S. Department of State website. Complete the form in its entirety.
Gather evidence of U.S. citizenship. If the applicant's previous passport is undamaged this can be used. If it is lost or damaged, then a birth certificate, consulate report of birth abroad, certification of birth, naturalization certificate or certificate of citizenship can be used.
Gather evidence of both parents' relationship to the minor. Evidence of parental relationship can be supplied in the form of a U.S. birth certificate, foreign birth certificate, minor's report of birth abroad, an adoption decree, or court order establishing custody or guardianship.
Make photocopies of the state-issued forms of identification of both parents.
Determine whether consent is needed from the absent parent. If the single parent appearing in person with the minor has sole custody of the child, then that parent can present proof of this in the form of a birth certificate, consular report of birth abroad, or certification of birth abroad listing a single parent. The single parent can also supply a court order or adoption decree indicating a sole parent, a death certificate listing the death of the other parent, or a judicial declaration of incompetence for the non-applying parent.
Print Form DS-3053: statement of consent. You will need to have the absent parent complete the form, and have it notarized.
Visit the U.S. Department of State website to make an appointment. Choose an approved passport acceptance facility that will take passport-sized photos needed on site.
Apply in person with the application, supporting documents and the appropriate fees. Allow four to six weeks for processing, unless expedited services were purchased.
