Authorization Form For Passport Collection Template for the United States

When you cannot personally collect your passport from a U.S. passport agency or authorized facility, you need an Authorization Form For Passport Collection. This legal document allows a trusted individual to retrieve your passport on your behalf while complying with federal security requirements established under the Intelligence Reform and Terrorism Prevention Act of 2004.

When do you need this document?

You need this authorization form when circumstances prevent you from collecting your passport in person. Common situations include being out of state or country when your passport is ready, having a medical emergency that prevents travel, being deployed with the military, or having work commitments that conflict with passport agency hours. Many passport agencies require this form even for family members collecting passports, as it demonstrates clear consent and helps prevent unauthorized access to sensitive identification documents.

Key legal considerations

The authorization must include complete information about both parties, including full legal names, addresses, phone numbers, and identification details. You must specify the exact passport being collected, including passport number and issue date if available. The document should include a clear authorization statement that explicitly grants permission for passport collection and may need to specify any limitations or conditions. Most importantly, the form typically requires notarization to verify your identity and signature, as passports are considered highly sensitive government documents. The authorization should include an expiration date to prevent indefinite use, and you should provide the authorized person with proper identification to present at collection.

Legal requirements in United States

Under 22 CFR Part 51, passport collection procedures must follow strict federal guidelines to prevent fraud and protect personal information. The Privacy Act of 1974 governs how passport agencies handle your personal information during the collection process. Your authorization form must comply with specific Department of State requirements, which may vary depending on whether you applied using Form DS-11 for new passports or Form DS-82 for renewals. Some passport agencies require additional documentation beyond the authorization form, such as copies of both parties' identification or proof of relationship for family members. The authorized person must present valid photo identification that matches the information in your authorization form, and agencies may refuse collection if there are any discrepancies in the documentation.