1. What is the minimum age to apply for a passport in Texas?

In Texas, an individual must be at least 16 years old to apply for a passport.

2. How do I renew a passport for a minor in Texas?

To renew a passport for a minor in Texas, you must submit a completed DS-11 form, a passport photo of the minor, the minor’s most recent passport, parental consent (if applicable) and evidence of the minor’s U.S. citizenship to a passport acceptance facility in Texas. The application fee and execution fee must be paid in the form of check or money order.

3. Do I need parental consent to apply for a passport for a minor in Texas?

Yes. In Texas, minors who are under the age of 16 must have both parents or legal guardians present to sign their passport application in person. A minor aged 16 or 17 can apply for a passport without parental consent, but must present proof of relationship to the parent or legal guardian.

4. What documents are needed to apply for a passport for a minor in Texas?

In order to obtain a passport for a minor under the age of 16, a parent or legal guardian must provide the following documents to a passport acceptance facility:

• A completed form DS-11, Application for Passport.

• Evidence of the child’s U.S. citizenship, such as an expired or undamaged U.S. passport, a certified birth certificate issued by the city, county or state, a Consular Report of Birth Abroad, or a Certificate of Naturalization or Citizenship.

• Proof of relationship between the child and the parent or guardian applying on the child’s behalf, such as a certified birth certificate that lists both parents’ names, an adoption decree that lists both parents’ names, a court order establishing custody or guardianship, or a court order establishing paternity if only one parent is listed on the child’s birth certificate.

• Photo ID for the parent or guardian applying on behalf of the minor, such as a valid U.S. driver’s license, government ID card or valid U.S. passport.

• One recent 2×2 inch photograph taken within the last six months that meets all other passport photo requirements.

• Fee payment in the form of personal check, money order or cashier’s check made payable to “U.S. Department of State.”

5. What are the requirements for minors to obtain passports in Texas?

Minors under the age of 16 must apply for a passport in person with both parents or guardians. If the parent or guardian cannot accompany the minor, the absent parent or guardian must sign a form DS-3053 Statement of Consent: Issuance of a Passport to a Minor Under Age 16. This form must be signed in front of a notary public and submitted with a photocopy of his or her valid ID. Parents or guardians must also provide evidence of the minor’s U.S. citizenship and proof of their relationship to the minor (birth certificate, adoption decree, etc.). Additionally, both parents must provide government-issued identification such as a driver’s license or passport.

6. Is there an expedited process for obtaining a passport for minors in Texas?

Yes, there is an expedited process for obtaining a passport for minors in Texas. The U.S. Department of State offers three expedited passport services: Expedited Service at a Regional Passport Agency, Expedited Service Through a Passport Acceptance Facility and Expedited Service by Mail. Each service has different requirements and fees, so applicants should determine which best meets their needs.

7. Do I need to provide proof of parentage when applying for a passport for a minor in Texas?

Yes. Documentation typically including a birth certificate, passport or other proof of parentage is required when applying for a passport for a minor in Texas.

8. Can I apply for a passport for my child in Texas if I am not the legal guardian?

No, you cannot apply for a passport for a child if you are not the legal guardian. The legal guardian must be present at the time of application and must provide proof of guardianship.

9. Are there any guidelines regarding passport photos for minors in Texas?

Yes, the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) has passport photo requirements for minors. The photo must measure 2×2 inches and be taken within the last 6 months. It must be in color, taken against a neutral solid white or off-white background, without any shadows or glare. The photo should include the full face and neck, and the eyes should be open and clearly visible. The minor should have a neutral expression with their mouth closed. If the minor wears glasses, there should be no glare on the lenses. A passport application must be accompanied by two identical passport photos.

10. Is there any fee involved in applying for a passport for a minor in Texas?

Yes, there is a fee involved in applying for a passport for a minor in Texas. The fee is $80 for applicants under the age of 16, and $110 for applicants aged 16 and older.

11. Does my child need to have his/her own Social Security Number to apply for a passport in Texas?

Yes. All applicants are required to have a valid Social Security Number in order to apply for a passport in Texas.

12. Is there an additional fee if I need to expedite the process of obtaining a passport for my child in Texas?

Yes, an additional fee applies for expedited passport services.

13. How can I change the name on my child’s passport if it was issued in Texas?

In order to change the name on a child’s passport issued in Texas, you must first apply for a new passport for your child at a local passport office. Your child will need to bring their current passport, proof of the name change (such as a marriage or court order), proof of U.S. citizenship, and two identical passport pictures. You will also need to provide evidence of your relationship to your child.

14. Who should sign the application form when applying for a passport for my child in Texas?

The parent or legal guardian of the child should sign the application form when applying for a passport for a child in Texas.

15. How long does it take to obtain a passport for minors in Texas?

According to the US Department of State, the average processing time for minors under 16 years old to receive a passport in Texas is 4 to 6 weeks.

16. Are there any restrictions on travelling abroad with minors who have passports issued in Texas?

Yes, all minors who are travelling with a passport issued in Texas must have a notarized letter of consent from any non-traveling parent or legal guardian. For minors travelling alone or with someone other than a parent or legal guardian, additional documentation, such as a court order, may be required.

17. Does Texas allow dual citizenship when applying for passports for minors?

Yes, Texas allows dual citizenship when applying for passports for minors.

18. How can I get my child’s existing passport replaced with one issued from Texas?

The process for replacing an existing passport with one issued from Texas is the same as applying for a new passport. To do this, you will need to submit the appropriate documents and forms to the nearest regional passport office. Required documents include a completed passport application, a certified copy of the child’s birth certificate, valid photo identification (such as a driver’s license or state ID), and a passport photo. You will also need to pay all applicable fees. For more information, please visit the U.S. Department of State website.

19. What information do I need to provide when applying for a passport card for a minor in Texas?

When applying for a passport card for a minor in Texas, you will need to provide proof of U.S. citizenship (such as a certified birth certificate), proof of identity (such as a valid driver’s license or government-issued ID), two passport photos, and parental consent (such as an original or certified copy of the parents’ ID). A completed application form, payment fee, and any other necessary documents may also be required.

20. Can I submit an application form and documents online when applying for a passport for my child in Texas?

No, you must submit your application and documents in person at an approved passport acceptance facility.