Is there still an official record of my expired passport?

Question: Hello. I'm applying for a new passport because my former one expired years ago. I can't find my old passport to use it as identification, so I was wondering whether there is a record somewhere of the old passport that I could have someone look up. (It's tricky for me to just use my birth certificate because my last name was changed--but not legally--when I was 6 years old.)

Answer: You can apply for a passport record. There is a fee of $150 and it can take up to six weeks to get it. However, you cannot use a passport record as evidence of U.S. citizenship.

If your birth certificate does not show your current legal name and you have not applied for a name change court order, then you can present 3 or more public records that show the exclusive use of your name for at least 5 years. You may also be required to appear with someone who can serve as a witness to your identity.

For a complete list of requirements, click the link below.

Apply for a New Passport

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Expired Passport Renewal
by: AnonymousS

Question: My passport expired just over 5 years ago, and I still have it in possession. A trip is coming up and I am wondering what the fastest course of action is that I can take.

I am a naturalized citizen who lost the naturalization certificate and am waiting on the agency to send me a new one. In the meantime, can I renew my passport and what evidence would I show-- my 5+ years expired passport, a file search, other? Or do I need to apply for a new passport and do I need to wait for the naturalization certificate to show up?

Answer: Once a passport has been expired more than 5 years, it is not eligible for renewal via Form DS-82. You must apply for a new passport using Form DS-11, which is the same form used for first-time applicants. Because you were naturalized, your proof of citizenship must be your Original Certificate of Naturalization, or
A replacement certificate issued by USCIS (Form N-565). Without it, you cannot be issued a new passport.

Your expired passport alone is not sufficient proof in this case (expired passports are accepted only if they are still within the renewal window and if citizenship was established by birth in the U.S.).

Here’s your best course of action:

You must wait until you receive the replacement Certificate of Naturalization from USCIS.

Once you receive it, immediately apply for a passport using:

- Form DS-11
- Your new Naturalization Certificate
- Your expired U.S. passport (as secondary ID)
- Proof of identity (e.g., driver's license)
- Passport photo
- Payment for fees

You must apply in person at a passport acceptance facility but if your trip is within 2 weeks or you need a visa within 4 weeks, consider:

1. Applying at a regional passport agency OR
2. Employ the services of a reputable passport expediter

Get Passport Fast

None
by: Theresia Merglewski

Question: I’m looking for information on my old passport when I was a child.

Answer: You may request for a passport record.

This is the most straightforward method:

To do this, send a written request to the Office of Records Management, Records Review and Release Division, including:

-Your full name at birth and all names used,
-Date and place of birth,
-Any data helpful for locating your record (e.g. approximate issue year or passport number),
-A copy of both sides of your ID (e.g. driver's license),
-A statement signed under penalty of perjury or notarized

There is no fee for a standard request. If you want a certified copy, there's a $50 fee.

Mail it to:

U.S. Department of State
Office of Records Management
Records Review and Release Division
44132 Mercure Cir
P.O. Box 1227
Sterling, VA 20166‑1227

Processing typically takes 12 to 16 weeks.

Applying for new passport
by: Anonymous

Question: My passport issued in 1987 expired and I cannot find it. Applying for new and instructions say if over 15 years apply for new. Do I need to report the old one as lost?

Answer: There is no need to report the loss of the passport. You may proceed with your new application as if it's your first.

Get Passport Fast

Mistake made
by: Anonymous

Question: Recently applied for a passport. Marked "no" for having a passport in the past but just found out I had one as a young child. It has been expired for almost 20 years. Will they reject my application based on this mistake?

Answer: Your application will not be rejected.

very old passport
by: Anonymous

Question: I received a passport when I was in the Peace Corps 45 years ago. Is this expired passport still valid? Form DS-11 asks about parents and their dates of birth. My parents are both deceased. Do I put this on the application somewhere?

Answer: Your old passport is no longer valid but if it is undamaged, you may be able to use it as proof of U.S. citizenship. There is no need to indicate that your parents are deceased but you will have to enter their dates of birth. You will usually find this information on your birth certificate.

Only expired photo ID
by: Lorraine

Question: I have my passport that expired in 2004. I have my driver's license which expired in 2018. How do I get a passport? I don't have a birth certificate because the facility burned when I was a child. I do have the government form that I used instead to get my original passport in 1980.

Answer: Hi, Lorraine. If your expired passport is in good condition (undamaged), you may use it as evidence of U.S. citizenship. However, you cannot use an expired ID as proof of identity. You need to obtain a new ID to present when you apply for your new passport.

Naturalization Certificate
by: Anonymous

Question: Hello, I applied for a new passport with my dad and I had my green card as well as my CA ID, birth certificate & his naturalization certificate. I received a letter stating I was denied due to having a felony.

Long story short I fixed that issue and now I’m ready to apply for a new passport. This time around my dad won’t be able to help me. My green card expired and I became a citizen through him. When he became a citizen I was still a minor.

Years have passed and I am now 28. I would like to apply for a US Passport but I don’t have my expired Green Card or my CA ID. I have a WA State ID L, birth certificate & my dad's naturalization certificate. I’m unable to apply for a CA REAL ID. Is there a way I can apply for a passport if I did a record search for a copy of my green card and Ca ID? Or would I have to apply for my own naturalization certificate?

Answer: In order to apply for a passport, you need to establish citizenship first. While it is true that you have acquired citizenship from your father, you may not be able to use his naturalization certificate as proof of your citizenship. You may need to request for a citizenship certificate. We recommend contacting the USCIS regarding this.

Corrected Passport
by: Anonymous

Question: I received my passport back in 2012; there was a mistake on my birth date; I gave it back and received it back corrected.

I did not receive any paperwork. I have checked the record there is no record of this mistake other than receiving my passport that same day.

Has there been a change to the procedure?

My 15-year-old son got his passport with the same issue; we returned it and we received a new one with a paper having a check in the box for wrong birthday.

ON the bottom of that paper it says 2015 update procedure.

So I may be wondering if this might be the issue. They changed the procedure and guidelines.

Is that why?

Still, I have zero records of receiving a new passport just the correction. This was 10yrs ago.

Anyone answer this?

Answer: There may have been minor changes in the guidelines but the application process remains the same. Please contact the NPIC at 1-877-487-2778 for more information.

When Lost
by: Anonymous

(continued)

Question: It was probably lost well before it expired but did not realize it until after it expired.

So filing for a renewal of the card should not be an issue as long as I still have the book?

Answer: Yes, you may still apply for both.

Lost Passport Card
by: Anonymous

Question: My passport expired over a year ago. I used to have both a book and a card. I still have the expired book but lost the card.

When I apply for renewal online, it has separate check boxes for both. What is the consequence of losing the card? Do I have to apply as new if I want both again? Can I renew both despite losing the card?

Answer: You need to report the card as lost if it was still valid. If not, there is no need. You can renew the book and check the box for both card and book.

Renew passport
by: Sandra

Question: My passport expired in 2015 and I have since remarried. Do I need my birth certificate and divorce and marriage papers, or can I bring in my old passport, driver's license, and marriage license for identification?

Answer: Since your passport has been expired for over 5 years, you now need to submit a new application in person like it's a first-time passport.

Please prepare the following requirements:

1. Form DS-11
2. U.S. birth certificate (original/certified copy plus a photocopy)
3. Government-issued ID bearing your new married name (submit a photocopy)
4. One new passport photo
5. Payment for fees
-Application fee: $130
-Execution fee (paid separately): $35
-1 to 2 days delivery (recommended): $18.32
-Expedite fee (optional): $60

Routine service currently takes 7 to 10 weeks and expedited service (an additional $60) takes 4 to 6 weeks. These are just processing times and do not include shipping times on the front and back end. We strongly recommend not making any final travel arrangements until you receive your passport.

Can't Recall
by: Anonymous

Question: Hello, I want to apply for a passport, but the application asks if I've had one. I suffered a head injury in the military that impacted my memory. I've looked everywhere, but cannot recall having one. I think I had a military passport, but that also has been since 2008. My name has also been legally changed since 2008 and I don't know what I should mark on the new passport application. If I mark no, but there was one, I don't want to be in trouble.

Answer: You need to complete the application to the best of your knowledge. If you think you have been issued with a passport in the past, you may mark it as Yes and just leave the other fields blank if you do not have the details at hand.

Vaccination records
by: Anonymous

Question: My first passport was issued in 1970 when I was 16. I remember having to include a yellow vaccination log with my passport application. Does the US Passport Office maintain copies or facsimiles of vaccination logs?

Answer: Yes, the Department of State keeps records of supporting documents submitted with a passport application. To access these, you need to file a request for passport records.

Expired Child Passport
by: Anonymous

Question: My stepdaughter just applied for her first adult passport but didn't submit her expired child passport for cancellation. Will this delay or cause any problems with her receiving a new passport?

Answer: First-time adult applicants are not required to submit their most recent child passports. There should not be any issues with the application.

Hair Color
by: Anonymous

Question: Do I put my true hair color even though it is not the hair color I currently have?

Answer: Yes, enter your natural hair color.

Expired us child passport
by: Anonymous

Question: Hi. I do not have my expired U.S. passport issued when I was a child. It has been lost. I was born here in England in 1977. Do I need to inform the UK passport office when applying for my first UK adult passport that I once had a U.S. child passport? Thank you.

Answer: You should contact Her Majesty's Passport Office for answers to your question.

Expired US child passport
by: Anonymous

Question: Hi. I was born in the UK, my mother was born in the US. When her mother who was born in England died, my mother came to live here in the UK. She decided to get me a US passport which has long expired well over 20 years ago. I have just applied for my first UK passport, will having a US child passport that has been listed affect my application for my UK passport? Thank you.

Answer: It should not be an issue since dual citizenship (British and American) is allowed. You can have both a U.S. and British passport at the same time if you so wish it.

U.S. Born registered again in Mexico
by: Anonymous

Question: I was born in the US. One month afterward, my parents moved back to Mexico and registered me again but as born in Mexico. I have 2 birth certificates one from the US and one from Mexico.

I am trying to renew my US passport in order to get things straightened in both countries. As a kid, my parents applied for a US tourist visa for me using my Mexican documents (Mexico born), and have visited the US on several occasions.

Will I have any trouble renewing/getting a new US passport?

I have a US birth certificate, expired passport, SSN, hospital birth records, pictures, etc. Currently living abroad.

Answer: It is best that you contact the closest U.S. Embassy or Consulate for advice regarding the matter at hand.

Renewing my passport
by: Anonymous

Question: I was born in the United States and then moved to another country when I was 9. My passport expired almost six years ago and I heard to renew it, I needed to have a social security number which I have not been issued yet.

To issue a social security number I’d need a current passport which is the problem. (Note: I have a birth certificate and my old passport).

Answer: Please contact the closest U.S. Embassy or Consulate for assistance regarding the matter.

40 yrs ago
by: Anonymous

Question: I was born in the U.S and my first passport was issued when I was around 2, that was 40 years ago. At that time, I moved to Greece with my family. I need proof that the first two years of my life I was in the U.S.

Answer: Since you were born in the U.S., you should have a state-issued U.S. birth certificate. If you would like to apply for but do not have your birth certificate, you may request a file search, the result of which will be used as your evidence of U.S. citizenship.

As for proof that the first two years of your life were spent in the United States, baptismal certificates and early childhood medical records may suffice.

Renewal of passport card
by: Anonymous

Question: I used to have a passport book, which I renewed as a card. The passport card has now expired and I'd like to apply for a book again. Do I just fill out the renewal for the card and request a book? And if so, do I need to send in the original passport book and information on the application along with the card?

Answer: There is no need to send the old passport book. You only need to submit the card with the rest of the renewal requirements.

Born in Germany in a US Army Hospital
by: Anonymously

Question: Hi. I’m 32 years old and was born in Germany in a US army hospital. Both of my parents are from the US but we’re in the Army. I came to the US when I was 8 months with a passport. I can’t find my passport from when I first came to the US but I do have my Birth certificate. I’m having difficulty applying for a new passport because on my birth certificate neither of my parents' names are on it because of how the German Birth certificate is made.

I don’t know what to do.

Answer: Since you were issued a U.S. passport in the past, you may request a file search. The result of the search can be used as your evidence of U.S. citizenship.

Passport Application Requirements

Certified passport records
by: Anonymous

Question: My sister acquired U.S. citizenship abroad through our American father and received a passport and CRBA. I am having trouble getting his proof of citizenship and physical presence to apply for my 1st-time passport. Would I and my sister be able to order certified copies of her initial passport record and use that at the passport office since it would include these?

Answer: Please contact the NPIC at 1-877-487-2778 regarding your concern. You may also contact the USCIS for guidance on citizenship issues.

Passport
by: Anonymous

Question: I was born in the 1960s in the US to British parents. I moved to the UK when I was 2 on a US passport which I still have. I also had another renewed US passport in my teenage years but this has been lost. I wish to reapply for my US passport so that I can see my place of birth. I have my first US passport, my US birth certificate, and the document which Registered my birth at the UK consulate in my state of birth. Will I be able to apply for a new US passport with these documents? Many thanks.

Answer: You have the document to apply for a new U.S. passport. Please prepare the following:

1. Form DS-11 (can be obtained at the embassy or downloaded online)
2. Original U.S. birth certificate
3. Proof of identification
4. One new passport photo
5. Payment for fees

Please contact the U.S. Embassy in London or the closest U.S. Consulate in the United Kingdom to secure an appointment for your passport application.

Missing passport from 9 years ago
by: Anonymous

Question: Hello! I had a passport back when I was 17, but I lost it. It's been 9 years since then and I haven't needed to travel anywhere.

Now I'm finally ready to apply for a new passport and I'm wondering if it's necessary to fill out the paperwork for a missing/lost passport or can I just apply for the new one? I have very little information about my old one, as it has been so long and my memory isn't the best.

Please let me know what the best course of action would be. Thanks!

Answer: Since the passport has long expired, you no longer need to report it as lost. You may proceed to applying for a new passport.

You need to submit your application in person at an acceptance facility. These are located in government offices, public libraries and post offices. Most locations require an appointment.

Schedule an Appointment at a Post Office

Standard service can take up to 16 weeks while expedited service (additional $60) can take 12 weeks on the front and back end. We strongly recommend waiting until your new passport arrives before making any final travel arrangements.

Need more proof
by: Joanne

Question: I flew to Germany with my USA passport to a military base to be with my husband. We are both American-born.

I had a child in 1960. In 1961, I flew back home to the USA with my 8-month-old daughter. I cannot remember if she was ever, or even, ADDED to my passport. Could she have flown home to the USA without a passport?

If I requested 1961 passport records would it show this? We are having a problem with the original birth certificate. We gave official original birth from US Army hospital Munich but we hear we need more.

Answer: Yes, you may request for a passport record. Note, however, that there are no guarantees that a record will be found.

Passport
by: Anonymous

Question: I had a passport when I was 2. I am now 42 and want to get a passport. I have no clue where the old passport is. So do I just say yes I have had a passport and fill in as much info as I can?

Answer: Yes, please indicate that you have been issued a passport in the past and provide as many details as you can. Just write NA for spaces that you do not have an answer to.

Applied for passport at age 15, issued passport at age 16
by: Anonymous

Question: My mom applied for my passport when I was a few weeks before turning 16. So my passport reads that it was issued at age 16 but only has 5 years of validity. So the government filed my passport as minor at age 15 but issued it when I was 16.

I'm just confused as to what they go by because shouldn’t my passport have a 10 year validity since it was issued when I was 16? Im having trouble renewing my passport because my passport cannot be used as proof of citizenship.

Answer: A passport's period of validity is based on the applicant's age upon the application submission, not upon the passport's issuance. The five-year validity is correct since your application was submitted before you turned 16.

The passport issued as a minor cannot be used as proof of citizenship so you need to submit other document/s. If you are a natural-born citizen, your original U.S. birth certificate or a certified copy must be submitted. If you acquired citizenship through your parent/s, you may submit proof of derived citizenship. This can be your parent/s' naturalization certificate, U.S. passport or certificate of citizenship.

If none of these are available, you may request for a file search. The result of the file search will be used as your proof of citizenship for the new passport application.

Passport expired for 20 years
by: Anonymous

Question: Can I renew my passport if it has been expired for 20 years, or do I have to apply for a new one. I still have the expired one in my possession.

Answer: Since it has been over 5 years since the passport expired, you now need to submit a new application. The application must be submitted in person at an acceptance facility.

Schedule an Appointment

Please make sure to bring all your requirements and observe safety protocols.

Passport Application
by: Anonymous

Question: I am applying for a new passport. My passport was issued when I was 10 and it expired 5 years ago. I am now 17 and question 21 of the DS-11 form asks if I was issued a US passport book or passport card and the questions underneath state to put the information of your most recent passport book.

Do I answer the question "Have you ever applied for or been issued a US Passport Book or Passport Card" as a yes or no? Thank you.

Answer: Please answer YES and enter the information required.

Misplaced passport
by: Anonymous

Question: I misplaced my passport 25 years ago, which means I assume, there is still record of it. Is the process of renewing be different or unique for me, considering there is probably record of my expired but misplaced passport? My name is the same as the original passport.

Answer: You need to submit a new passport application as if it's your first.

Weird question
by: R.

Question: I became a US citizen when my mother became a citizen and took out a passport for me . However i lost my passport years ago. How can i apply for one again? All i have is my birth certificate, my old green card when i was a kid. Any help would be greatly appreciated.

Answer: You can request for a file search-- the result of which will be used as your proof of U.S. citizenship. Submit the request with the following:

1. Form DS-11
2. Proof of identity plus photocopy
3. One new passport photo
4. Payment for fees

These must be submitted in person at an acceptance facility.

Expired passport
by: Anonymous

Question: I was issued a passport when I was 11 years old, which has since expired. I am now 22 years old and I am in need of an updated passport. I live in a different state than where the expired passport is. Can I apply for a new one without the old one in my possession?

Answer: You do not need your old passport to apply for your new adult passport. Please prepare the following requirements to submit in person at an acceptance facility:

1. Form DS-11 (must be signed in front of a passport agent)
2. Evidence of U.S. citizenship plus photocopy
3. Proof of identity plus photocopy
4. One passport photo
5. Payment for fees

China Visas
by: Anonymous

Question: I had a passport that expired in early 2016, and renewed it. When I sent in the old passport for the renewal process, the old one was returned with the new one, but the main page (the one with my picture and issuance information) was torn out, so I discarded it. Now I am trying to get my Visa to got to China, and they are requesting my previous Passport, since my new one was issued after 1/1/2015. How can they ask for that if the U.S. government tore out the page?

Answer: Passport services does not mutilate old passports. They only punch a hole in the passport to show that it has been invalidated.

Please contact the NPIC at 1-877-487-2778 regarding your concern.

Passport is about to expire
by: Anonymous

Question: I lost my passport a few years ago and it is due to expire next month, I have a form for a file search since I do not have proof of citizenship. I became a citizen when my mom was naturalized when I was under the age of 18. I never received a Naturalization Record. Would I be able to use this file search form and pay the $150 fee in order to get a new passport?

Thank you.

Answer: Yes. The result of the file search will used as your citizenship evidence for the new application.

Expired passport
by: Mary S Anonymous

Question: My passport expired 3/10/2012. Can I apply for a renewal one or do I have to apply for a new one and do I use my old passport number to ask for a renewal?

Answer: Since it has been over 5 years since your passport expired, you need to submit a new application in person. You need to enter your old passport number in section 21 of Form DS-11.

Expired Minor Passport
by: Anonymous

Question: I have a passport issued when I was seven, it has obviously since expired and I am wanting to apply for a new passport. Can that old passport be used as proof of citizenship?

Answer: Unfortunately, a passport issued when one was a minor cannot be used as evidence of U.S. citizenship.

Incorrect Info?
by: John

Question: Submitted my new passport application this week at the post office. On the form I said that I had never had a passport previously, but then found out from my mom that I had one when I was 17 or 18 years old - about 35 years ago. I had no idea. Will this be an issue? Time-wise it would be a problem if it was rejected and I had to re-apply.

Answer: It should not be an issue.

Stolen passport/unknown info for new application
by: Anonymous

Question: My passport was stolen sometime 13-17 yrs ago. I am applying for a new passport now, but do not remember if the original passport was issued in my former last name or current last name. What should I do? The form is asking which name the passport was issued under and I'm not sure.

Answer: You may leave the space blank. You cannot do this if you are completing the form online. I recommend downloading and printing Form DS-11 and completing it by hand.

Expired passport
by: Anonymous

Question: My passport is expired by 16 years. I know I have to start over again with application. I still have my old passport. Can it be primary evidence of citizenship with it being over 15 years old?

Answer: If the passport was issued when you were age 16 or older and is undamaged (save for normal wear and tear), you may use it as evidence of U.S. citizenship for your passport application.

Verification of Passport Numbers
by: Anonymous

Question: How do I verify an old passport number to my new one, which is valid, as the same person? I still have the old passport which expired in 2002.

Answer: Can you elaborate? I am not sure what you mean by "verify an old passport number to my new one".

Stolen/ New Passport
by: Anonymous

Question: I had a passport three years ago when I was still a minor, but it got stolen. It was never reported since it was expired already. Now that I'm 18, should I apply for a new passport? If yes, how would I put that on the application? Or should I apply in person?

Answer: Hi! You need to apply in person for your first adult U.S. passport. Please prepare the following requirements:

1. Form DS-11 (must be signed in front of a passport agent)
2. Evidence of U.S. citizenship plus photocopy
3. Proof of identity plus photocopy
4. One passport photo
5. Payment for fees

You need to indicate that you have been issued a passport in the past and just leave the spaces for details blank or write NA on it.

You may find the closest passport office and schedule an appointment here.

3 years ago
by: Anonym

Question: My passport expired in 2016 and there’s no U.S. Embassy in Yemen. Can you please tell me what should I do?

Answer: The U.S. Department of State has designated the U.S. Embassy in Cairo, Egypt to handle American Citizens Services cases emanating out of Yemen. Please contact them for assistance.

My own first baby passport
by: Anonymous

Question: I was born in the United States. How do I get my own first own baby passport?

Answer: I'm afraid your question is quite confusing. Are you applying for your passport OR for your baby's passport?

Renewal or apply again?
by: Anonymous

Question: My passport expired may 26, 2013. I'm 61 yrs old. Do I need to renew or apply again?

Answer: Since you are past the 5-year post expiration window, you need to submit a new application to obtain a passport.

Minor Passport
by: Anonymous

Question: My minor passport expired 4 years ago. I properly disposed of it, therefore I no longer have the identification #. When applying for a new passport with the DS-11, form how do I properly answer question 21. "Have you ever applied for or been issued a U.S. Passport Book or Passport Card?" yes or no - if yes do I check the "lost" box? Thank you!

Answer: Please indicate that you were issued a passport in the past. There is no need to indicate it as lost.

Decades Old Expired Passport
by: Mag

Question: My previous passport was issued in 1977, and I can't find it any more. How do I apply for a new passport?

Answer: You need to apply in person for your new U.S. passport. Please prepare the following requirements:

1. Form DS-11 (must be signed in front of a passport agent)
2. Evidence of U.S. citizenship plus photocopy
3. Proof of identity plus photocopy
4. One passport photo
5. Payment for fees

You need to go to a acceptance facility to submit the requirements. You may schedule an appointment here.

Record of passport
by: Anonymous

Question: I need my old passport to prove who I am. I know it sounds stupid but I'm having a hard time getting my birth certificate. Since I've already had a passport, there's a record of it. Please help!

Answer: You may send a request for a passport record to the following address:

U.S. Department of State
Office of Law Enforcement Liaison
44132 Mercure Cir
P.O. Box 1227
Sterling, VA 20166

There is a $50 fee for a certified copy of your passport record. Please click on the following link for more information:

Passport Record

Renew passport
by: mubbashar

Question: My passport expired 2 years ago at that time my age was 17. Can I renew my passport now as I am 19 years old?

Answer: Since your passport was issued when you were under age, you need to apply for your new adult passport in person. Renewals are only for passports ISSUED when one was age 16 or older.

New passport or renewal?
by: Anonymous

Question: My last passport is from about 15 years ago. I still have it but it’s obviously expired and since then I’ve gotten married and changed my last name. What do I need to do to get a new passport? Do i just need to start over with a new one? Or can my old one be renewed with proof of my name change (marriage certificate)?

Answer: The answer depends on the exact date your passport expired. If it has been over 5 years since expiration, you need to apply for a new passport. There will then be no need to submit your marriage certificate. The new passport will be issued in your new married name as long as it is supported by your proof of identity.

If it has been under 5 years, you can apply for a renewal with name change and submit your marriage certificate as evidence of legal name change.

Lost and over 5 years
by: Susan

Question: I lost my passport and it’s been over 5 years, when I file for a new passport do I have to have copies of my marriage certificates and divorces? I’ve been married 3 times and my papers were lost in a move. They were all on my last passport.

Answer: Hi, Susan. There is no need to send name change documents. The new passport will be issued in the name you enter in the application form as long as it is supported by either your evidence of U.S. citizenship or proof of identity.

Last passport expired at age 12
by: Mike

Question: My last and only passport expired when I was 12 and I’m now 38 and I have no clue where it is. Do I need to fill out lost book form or do I just apply as if it is my first?

Answer: Hi, Mike. There is no need to report the passport as lost. You may proceed to applying for a new passport.

Lost passport
by: Nancy

Question: I remember having a passport when I was younger. Can I request for a new passport if I don't remember the dates on it?

Answer: You can, Nancy. Please indicate that you have been issued a passport in past and just leave the other details blank.

Passport
by: Need a vacation

Question: Hi. My passport is out 28 years ago. I went to get a new one but they said my birth certificate wasn't valid because it was old and my parents names are not on it. I'm going away for Christmas. Can I renew it?

Answer: You cannot renew your passport since it has been expired for over 5 years. But since you were issued a passport in the past, you may request for a file search, the results of which will be used as proof of your U.S. citizenship. The fee for a file search is $150 and is non-refundable. You may include this request with the rest of the requirements for a new passport.

Lost and expired passport
by: Anonymous

Question: I have already renewed my passport last year, however I seem to have lost my expired passport. I understand it is important to have the old passport as it helps to prove US citizenship. What do I do now?

Answer: You may use your current valid passport as evidence of U.S. citizenship.

Help!
by: Mary

Question: I was in th Army 1976 I was stationed in Germany. Haven’t used my passport, so I apply for lost or new passport?

Answer: You need to apply for a new passport.

May I wear colored contact lenses in my passport photo?
by: Anonymous

Question: I am in my mid 40’s and have been wearing colored contacts since my early 20’s. My last (brown eyed) passport is from when I was 16, so I obviously need a new one. Is wearing these colored contacts (which I wear EVERY DAY) an issue in my passport photo? (Real eyes brown, lenses blue.) Thanks in advance!

Answer: The passport photo should show your real eye color.

Passport
by: Ron H

Question: I had passport 45 years ago, never used it, threw it away 40 years ago, do I need to fill out a DS-64 form with a new application?

Answer: Hi, Ron. There is no need to submit From DS-64. You just need to submit the application requirements for a new passport.

Lost expired passport question.
by: Anonymous

Question: I am applying for a new passport because my old passport expired over 15 years ago when I was a minor. I have since misplaced this passport and cannot find it. I am filling out the DS-11 form and it is asking if I have ever applied for a passport book which I marked yes, then it asked if I had lost the book which I marked yes but I didn't report it because it is expired, then it is asking if I know the passport book number and the issuance date. What should I put for the passport book number and issuance date if I don't know it and do I need to fill out any other forms? Thank you.

Answer: You may submit Form DS-64 with the requirements for a new passport.

Can I renew my 31-year-old passport?
by: Anonymous

Question:I have a passport that I got 31 years ago. Do I have to re-apply for a passport or can I just renew one?

Answer: Passports that have expired for more than 5 years can no longer be renewed. You need to apply for a new passport as if for the first time.

Information on passport
by: Anonymous

Question: My passport expired 14 years ago. What do I need to do?

Answer: You need to apply for a new passport in person at an acceptance facility. Please prepare the following requirements:

1. Form DS-11
2. evidence of U.S. citizenship
3. proof of identity
4. Photocopy of ID
5. One passport photo
6. Payment for fees

If you cannot present evidence of U.S. citizenship, you may request for a file search with your application. Results (if any) of the file search will then be used as your citizenship evidence.

Question
by: B

Question: Hi, I had a passport when I was 14 and I am now 27. I no longer have my old passport and I am assuming it is expired. I have a new last name as well. What is the process for getting a passport? Do I apply as a new applicant? Thank you.

Answer: You need to apply for a new passport. Applications for new passports need to be submitted in person at an acceptance facility where an agent will witness your signature and seal your application packet.

Please prepare the following requirements:

1. Form DS-11 (completed but unsigned)
2. Evidence of U.S. citizenship
3. Proof of identity
4. Photocopy of ID
5. One passport photo
6. Payment for fees

You may schedule an appointment at a local post office to submit your application.

Lost expired passport
by: Chris

Question: My passport was issued well over 15 years ago when I was 9 y/o. It is now missing. I am now applying for a new passport but the application form is asking for the most recent book # and issue date. Do I need this info? If not what should I put? I'm trying to avoid paying the $150 to retrieve the old passport info. Please help.

Answer: You still need to indicate that you have been issued a passport in the past when filling out Form DS-11. If you do not have the details pertaining to that old passport, just place NA in the space.

Kept my previous married name
by: Anonymous

Question: My current passport expires next month. I have a birth certificate and SS cards with my birth name and current last name. I no longer have the divorce decrees from previous marriages. I want to use DS-82. How do I proceed?

Answer: You may use Form DS-82 to apply for a renewal if you are not changing the name on your passport. If you are, you need submit evidence of legal name change in order to use Form DS-82.

You may request copies of your divorce decree/s from the city/state vital records office. If you cannot obtain one, you need to apply for a new passport in person using Form DS-11.

Proof of citizenship/DS-11
by: James

Question: You cannot get an Enhanced Driver's License or a Real ID Act compliant document unless you are a U.S. citizen. The application guidelines states this. I am making such a issue of this because I in fact had to show all my identity documents over again to be issued a state id compliant with the Real Id Act law. Do you think the state department will recognize these facts on their passport applications? Thank you.

Answer: As of this time, Real ID-compliant IDs are not acceptable as evidence of U.S. citizenship. It can, however, be used a proof of identity.

Question
by: Anonymous

Question: My son had a passport years ago as a minor. He is now in the military and a security clearance question is about his old passport and number. It is expired and I no longer have it. How do I find the information he needs?

Answer: Information such as passport numbers are protected by the Privacy Act. Since the information concerns your son, he must be the one to request the information by submitting the following:

1. A notarized written request, stating his full name, current address, and date and place of birth

2. The notarized letter should must be accompanied by a copy of a valid government-issued photo identification, such as a driver’s license or other acceptable identification document/s

Please send such request to the following:

Law Enforcement Liaison Division
U.S. Department of State
CA/PPT/S/L/LE
4 Floor
1150 Passport Services PL
Dulles, VA 20189-1150

DS-11/prroof of citizenship
by: James

Question: Can I use my Enhanced Driver's License or GOES enrollment card to prove citizenship. I would like to add that these documents are REAL ID Act compliant.

Answer: You may use your enhanced driver's license as proof of identity but not as evidence of U.S. citizenship. A REAL ID driver license or REAL ID identification card can also be issued to non-U.S. citizens who are permanent residents of the United States.

DS-11/Proof of citizenship
by: James

Question: How about clear, color photocopy of my previous passport identification page (with document number, name, date of birth, etc. etc.)? Wouldn't that be at least proof that I was issued a passport book in the past?

Answer: While it proves that you were issued a passport in the past, a photocopy of your old passport's data page will not suffice as evidence of U.S. citizenship in order to obtain a new U.S. passport.

File search/DS-11
by: John

Question: So the only way to use the file search option to prove citizenship is when you submit a DS-11 with it (you must file a DS-11 for a new passport if you can no longer produce the old one)?

Answer: Yes.

Lost passport still on record
by: U.S Citizen

Question: I lost my passport in Ireland in 1996. I obtained a new one in France. To this day I still have to endure secondary border checks because of that lost passport. How do I get that lost passport off of my record.

Answer: The passport record cannot be expunged but it should not cause any issues at border crossings. Please call 1-877-487-2778 to speak to a customer service representative.

Need Info
by: Elizabeth

Question: I had a passport issued in 2003 or 2004 and never used it but I cannot find it. I have to get a passport to fly in 2018 to Florida. Can I get a new one? If so how?

Answer: Since you cannot submit the passport for a renewal, you need to apply for a new passport.

Applications for new passports need to be submitted in person at a nearby acceptance facility. Please prepare the following for submission:

1. Form DS-11 (completed but unsigned)
2. Evidence of U.S. citizenship
3. Proof of identity
4. Photocopy of ID
5. One passport photo
6. Payment for fees

Renew my passport
by: Anonymous

Question: My passport expired when I was 7 years. I am going be 18 in a month. What should I do to renew my passport?

Answer: Passports issued when one was a minor cannot be renewed. You need to apply for a new passport by submitting the following in person at an acceptance facility.

1. Form DS-11 (completed but unsigned)
2. Evidence of U.S. citizenship (birth certificate)
3. Proof of identity
4. Photocopy of ID
5. One passport photo
6. Payment for fees

If you cannot submit a primary ID like a driver's license, you may submit a combination of secondary proofs of identity.

Can't find expired passport
by: Deborah Tidmore

Question: I got my last passport in the early 90's. Is there a record of the number?

Answer: Passport records are protected by the Privacy Act. You may request for a file search in writing in order to access such information. Please call customer service at 1-877-487-2778 for further assistance.

Named changed
by: Anonymous

Question: It's been over 25 yrs and I need to apply for new passport but I can't find it. My last name has changed to a different married name. What should I do?

Answer: You may apply for a new passport without submitting the old one since it has been more than 15 years.

You need the following:

1. Form DS-11 (completed but unsigned)
2. Evidence of U.S. citizenship
3. Proof of identity with current legal name
4. Photocopy of identity
5. One passport photo
6. Payment for fees

You need to apply in person and submit your documents to a passport agent an a nearby acceptance facility.

The feds took my passport while I was on probation.
by: Anonymous

Question: The federal government took my passport while I was on probation. Probation is over and my passport has expired. Can I still get a renewed passport or do I have to get a new one?

Answer: Since you cannot submit your passport for a renewal by mail, you need to apply for a new passport in person at a nearby acceptance facility. You will need the following:

1. Form DS-11 (completed but unsigned)
2. Evidence of U.S. citizenship
3. Proof of identity
4. Photocopy of identity
5. One passport photo
6. Payment for fees

Lost of passport
by: Patrick

Question: I had lost my passport around the year of 1987- 1989. My last place of usage was in Aruba on my way to the United States.

Answer: You do not need to report the loss of your passport since it has long been expired. If you want a replacement, you need to apply for a new passport.

Expired, need renewal
by: Anonymous

Question: My passport was issued in 2003, expired in 2013. I have since changed my name. Can I renew my passport with my marriage license?

Answer: As long as your passport is undamaged and you can submit it with your application, you may apply for a passport renewal by mail. In addition to the renewal requirements, you also need to submit the original or a certified copy of your marriage certificate as proof of legal name change. You cannot use your marriage license.

renewal vs new application
by: Anonymous

Question: My passport just expired a month ago. However I prefer not to mail it in to renew it. Is it okay for me to just apply in person for a brand new passport? there are no facilities near me that do in person passport renewals, only brand new passports.

Answer: Yes, you may apply for a new passport altogether instead of applying for a renewal by mail.

Expired Passport
by: Anonymous

Question: You said it has been 15 years but it has only been 7 years. My passport expired in 2010. So, from then to now it is only 7 years. So, I am in the 15 year range. So, I just do renewal with my documents right?

Answer: The 15 years count from the date of issue of your passport not the date of expiration. If your passport expired in 2010, it was issued in 2000. That is more than 15 years ago. You must apply in person.

Expired Passport
by: Anonymous

Question: My passport expired 2010. I still have it. Can I file for renewal and just send in my old passport and my divorce decree and my new marriage documents?

Answer: Since your passport was issued more than 15 years ago, you must apply in person at an application acceptance facility. Visit the following web page for new passport instructions.

Since your previously-issued passport is in a different name than the one you currently use, you also need to submit evidence of the name change.

Passport renewal
by: Anonymous

Question: Hello, my passport is expired last 2011 and I am abroad. I want to renew it. What are the requirement and how much is the fee to renew it.

Answer: Please visit the website of the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate general for passport application instructions and fee schedule.

Passport Application Question
by: Anonymous

Question: When applying in person for an expired passport that was issued over 15 years ago, what should you say on the application when it asks if you've ever been issued a passport?

Answer: Yes

Expired Passport
by: sal liggieri

Question: Passport was issued in 1984 and has expired a long time ago. I can't find the passport book so do I apply for new one?

Answer: You need to appear at a passport application acceptance facility in order to apply for a new passport. Even if you had the passport, it was issued more than 15 years ago and, therefore, could not be used to renew a passport by mail.

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