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Hi, I’m currently 16. But I’m planning on running away when I turn 18, I’m currently saving up money and working at my part time job. I turn 18 Feb 16 2025 and I plant on leaving right as I turn 18. Will I be able to apply to another highschool as an 18 year old by myself so I can at least finish highschool? Thank you.
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Hi there,
We are really glad you reached out to NRS. This is a great question. No matter the situation, or where you are at, you have the right to go to school. Even more, since you would already be 18, you could transfer your school credits without needing parental or guardian consent anyway. If you are interested, you could also look into getting your GED credential which is a high school equivalency diploma.
It sounds like you are planning on waiting to run away; but, just know that you can always reach out to us via chat (on this website) or phone call (1-800-RUNAWAY (786-2929)) if you ever need support or resources. We wish you the absolute best of luck moving forward.
Stay safe,
NRS
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Would there be an amber alert if I run away at 18? Not trying to bring attention to myself. But it's been way too hard and I'm just barely 18. Just turned 18 on March 10th. It shouldn't be this hard this early in my opinionComment
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Hi there,
Thank you for reaching out to the National Runaway Safeline (NRS). We really appreciate you reaching out for help.
To answer your question, since you are 18, your family cannot file a runaway report and therefore an amber alert is unlikely because of your age. That being said, a missing adult report could be made, but since you are over the age of 18, you cannot be sent back home.
We are here to support you 24/7. We understand that things can be difficult, so if you would like to talk in more detail, please contact NRS either by calling 1-800-RUNAWAY (786-2929) or chatting online through 1800runaway.org. We can help you work through some options such as shelters, transitional living homes, or different living arrangements.
We hope to hear from you soon.
Be safe,
NRS
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What happens if I am 18 and I run away from home (with the state I reside in I am considered a majority or adult) but I don't have access do documents like birth certificate and passport?Comment
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Hello,
Thanks so much for reaching out to us. It sounds like you are considering leaving home, but you have questions on how to be able to safely leave and avoid any documentation issues. While we are not legal experts, we will try to share information that can help you figure out your next steps.
Generally speaking, it may help to ensure that you have a state-issued identification, like a drivers license or state ID with you if you find you have to confirm your status as a legal adult in your area. If you are concerned that your family might file a runaway report despite your status as a legal adult in your state, one option might be to reach out to your local police department at their non-emergency number. They might be able to let you know what type of documentation is needed so that they can confirm you are no longer a minor and do not need to be returned home. If you are no longer a minor in your state, your family may be able to file a missing persons report with local police department, but local police would not be likely to try to return you to your parents/legal guardians as they would if you were a minor. You are asking really great questions to ensure your safety. If you need help accessing the contact information for your local police department, or if you just want to talk, please don't hesitate to reach out to us.
Whatever you decide, know that we are here to support you. We cannot tell you what to do, but we will do our best to help you stay safe as you figure out what is best for you.
Our contact information is 1-800-RUNAWAY (786-2929); www.1800runaway.org (click on the chat button).
If you are at risk of any danger or feeling unsafe, we encourage you to reach out to 911 or seek emergency assistance immediately.
We are here to listen, here to help. Stay safe!
-NRS
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