Info on Passport Application for Children

[magyar2]

I just went today to get new passports for my children, and went to the County Clerk's office instead of the post office.

I knew my husband's boss would not let him leave work to go sign some papers, so my husband signed the affidavit that I downloaded from the internet. I also had pictures of my girls (from Walgreen's), their old passports, and their birth certificates.

Upon arrival, I was asked where my husband was. I said that he was at work, and I gave the clerk the affidavits that he signed. For some reason, the clerk still wanted to see my husband, even after I mentioned that his boss won't let him leave work for this, and anyway, the website said that the affidavit would be fine. She did not care, so I called the supervisor, who said it was ok to have the affidavit. The supervisor mentioned that things have changed since 9/11, and she then made sure my children were also with me, as she said that the person that is receiving the passport has to be in attendance, also.

I sure wish requirements did not change depending on whom you speak with!

 

[mcnuss]

Nothing changed after 9/11. Our problems were with foreigners for heavens sakes, not US citizens. The regs were changed last July, but I suspect since many of these agents did not get their training (I hesitate to call it that) until the Fall, they think the changes were made bc of 9/11. Children do not have to go with you unless they are over 13. It's a good thing you had the presence of mind to ask for a supervisor. That's why from now on I will print the regulations off so that there is no question.

Although I have to tell you that when I was reading the reg over the phone to the aforementioned agent at my PO, he had the nerve to tell me that he was sure my "papers" were wrong and challenged me as to where I got them. When I said the Web, he said "oh, well, that's the problem then. The web is notorious, you should not believe anything on the Web." Then I told him that a) I am an attorney and b) the text came from the Code of Federal Regulations and I cited the section, etc..., read it verbatim to him, and he went totally silent. I have to admit that it was kinda fun hearing him squirm. Pls. don't flame me if you work at the PO. One bad apple, you know...

 

[peg2001]

Mcnuss,

omigosh! I was merely frustrated and inconvenienced by polite agents who seemed to mean well but perhaps did not understand the requirements clearly themselves. But to be verbally attacked as you were is inexcusable. I am glad that you followed up and made sure that the agent would be reprimanded.

Peg

 

[FantasticDisFamily]

Mcnuss,

Thanks for the heads up that a child over 13 has to go with you. Both my kids need new passports - they expire in Dec so I'm going in this week (before the rate goes up!). I'd missed that little tidbit and DS is 15. Ok, now to figure out how to work that around football practice!

Deb