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Getting a passport for a child under 16 is more involved than renewing your own, and it can be especially stressful when parents are separated or divorced. The U.S. Department of State's two-parent consent rule applies no matter how the parents get along, so if one parent won't be at the appointment, their consent has to be notarized correctly or the application can stall.
Notary Java makes that part simple. We meet the non-applying parent on their own, at home, at work, or at a café, notarize the DS-3053 the right way, and keep the whole thing calm, private, and professional. Here's how it works.
The Two-Parent Rule
For children under 16, the Department of State generally requires:
- Both parents or guardians to appear in person with the child when applying with Form DS-11, or
- One parent appears and the other provides a signed, notarized Form DS-3053, *Statement of Consent*.
Custody order or special family circumstances? Contact us and just ask: call or text 207-808-0550.
Getting the DS-3053 Right
The DS-3053 is where we come in. The Department of State's instructions include several details that catch people off guard:
- Sign in front of the notary. Don't sign ahead of time.
- Same-day notarization. The form is to be signed and notarized on the same day.
- Submit it within 90 days. The consent is accepted when it is submitted within 90 days of notarization.
- Include a photocopy of your ID, front and back, the same ID you showed the notary.
Bring your current government photo ID to the appointment. We'll complete the notarial section and make sure the date and signatures line up.
When Parents Aren't on Speaking Terms
Separated parents often prefer not to be in the same room, and that's fine:
- The non-applying parent books their own appointment with us for the DS-3053.
- The applying parent takes the child, the DS-11, and the notarized DS-3053 to a passport acceptance facility.
- If you need a separate appointment at a different time or place, we're happy to arrange it, quietly and professionally.
Where to Apply
The applying parent submits the DS-11 in person, with the notarized DS-3053 attached. Our job is making sure that consent form is notarized correctly and ready when you are. Questions about your appointment? Contact us and just ask: call or text 207-808-0550.
Serving Families Across Southern Maine
We meet parents at home, at work, or at a coffee shop in Portland, South Portland, Scarborough, Westbrook, Saco, Gorham, and beyond. Call or text 207-808-0550, and we'll take care of the consent form so you can focus on the trip.
Keep Reading
- Child Passport When One Parent Is Away or Overseas
- Separate Notary Appointments for Co-Parents
- Minor Travel Consent Letters: Notarized in One Visit
Frequently Asked Questions
Do both parents have to sign a child's passport application?
For children under 16, both parents generally must consent, either by appearing together or by having one parent provide a notarized DS-3053.
How long is a notarized DS-3053 good for?
The Department of State accepts it if it is submitted within 90 days of notarization.
Can you accept my child's passport application?
No. We notarize the DS-3053 consent so it's ready to go. The applying parent submits the DS-11 in person with the notarized consent.
What if I have sole custody or a court order?
Every family's situation is different. Contact us and just ask: call or text 207-808-0550.
What ID do I need for the DS-3053?
Bring a current government-issued photo ID, plus a photocopy of the front and back to attach to the form.
Book Your Appointment
Call or text 207-808-0550 to schedule with Notary Java. We are based at 50 Market Street, #400, South Portland, ME 04106, and we come to you across Greater Portland, York and Cumberland counties, and beyond. If you need documents printed, use the Upload Document Now (Send Documents) button in our contact section, or email files to SigningService@NotaryJava.com. That inbox is for sending documents only, so please call or text to book.