One parent or guardian should accompany applicants age 16 and 17 and co-sign the application form when visiting the acceptance agent (post office or court house). If the applicant has a drivers license issued more than 6 months ago they can attempt to apply without a parent or guardian however American Passport Express does not guarantee the timely issuance of the passport in this case. If the parent co-signs the application they show their own ID and the ID requirements for the child are not essential. If a parent or legal guardian is not available then a third party can accompany the applicant-see paragraph below
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A third-party in loco parentis applying on behalf of an applicant under age 18 must submit a notarized written statement or affidavit from both parents or guardians authorizing a third-party to apply for a passport. When the statement or affidavit is from only one parent/guardian, the third-party must present evidence of sole custody of the authorizing parent/guardian.