Passport Form DS-3053

When filling out the DS-3053 form you need to use black ink and make sure your writing is legible and all the information is accurate and complete. Illegible applications will cause delays or even suspension of the application processing time. In all cases this form is to be submitted with a DS-11 form. Keep in mind that the DS-3053 is only valid for three months from the date it is notarized and a new form will be needed each time you reapply.

(PRO TIP: There is no way to get around parental consent if one parent is unwilling to let the other apply for a passport, you will need a court order – there is no secret trick to getting a passport for a child so that one parent can “Run Away”. A statement of special circumstances is usable if one parent is completely out of the picture, but more often that not, you may still need a court order.)

Statement of Consent

A DS-3053 form is for parental consent. It should be filled out by:

• The non-applying parent or guardian providing written consent for another guardian or parent to apply for a passport for your minor child. Because you are unable to appear in person with your child (Statement of consent)
• The applying parent or guardian, and the written consent of the non-applying parent or guardian cannot be obtained (Statement of Special Circumstances).

If you are the non-applying parent and using this form as statement of consent you will need to fill out section 4a. This is going to give consent to the applying parent to have a passport issued to your child. After filling the form out you will need to:

• Sign and date Form DS-3053 in the presence of a Certified Notary Public
• Submit a photocopy of the front and back side of your ID with Form DS-3053

Statement of Special Circumstances

If you are the applying parent and you are using this form as statement of special circumstances you will need to fill in section 5a. This is only to be used when the written consent of the non-applying parent or guardian cannot be obtained. The statement must explain in detail the non-applying parent’s unavailability and recent efforts made to contact the non-applying parent. You do not have to have notarized and will submit this form alongside the DS-11 form at the Acceptance Clerk.