Typically, the notarized signatures of both parents are required in order to obtain a passport for a minor. However, exceptions can be made in cases where one of the child’s parents is abusive. If one parent is an abuser, they might withhold their consent as a tool of control, it might be dangerous for the other parent to contact the abusive parent to seek their consent, and/or they may be absent from the child’s life.

If a client would like to apply for a passport for their minor child without the consent of the other parent, they will need to submit a passport application and a U.S. Department of State Statement of Special Circumstances form (Form DS-5525), an advocacy letter or client affidavit detailing the abuse suffered, and a Statement of Special Circumstances attachment to their application.