Lost Passport Replacement Guide

You can replace a lost passport much in the same way you acquire a new one. The only difference is that you will need to report the loss and fill out an extra form. The same is true if your passport was stolen. Being the case, it will take the same amount of time as it does to obtain a new one unless you expedite your lost passport replacement.

You can replace a lost passport while abroad by visiting the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate general. If you need to travel soon, you will be issued an emergency, limited-validity passport. In order to facilitate the replacement of your travel document, it is recommended that you maintain a copy of your passport in a safe but accessible location.

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Steps to Replace a Lost Passport
Step 1: Report Lost Passport
Step 2: Complete Application Form
Step 3: Gather Supporting Documents
Step 4: Visit Acceptance Facility


Report Lost Passport

Currently, there are two ways to report a lost passport to the U.S. Department of State. One, you can complete the Statement Regarding Stolen or Lost Passport, Form DS-64 (Opens in new window). You should fill out this form only if your lost passport is still valid. Answer as many questions that you can with as much detail as you can. Once you have completed the form you should mail it to the address below.

U.S. Department of State
Passport Services
Consular Lost/Stolen Passport Section
1111 19th Street, NW, Suite 500
Washington, DC 20036

The second way to report the loss of your passport is to call the National Passport Information Center. The toll-free number is 1-877-487-2778. While calling may seem to be the more expedient of the two methods, it is often very difficult to get through. You may find it easier to complete Form DS-64 and send it in with the application for a new passport.

Important Notes Concerning a Lost or Stolen Passport

• Passports reported lost or stolen by telephone or by submitting Form DS-64 are invalidated and can no longer be used for travel.
• The information you provide on Form DS-64: Statement Regarding a Lost or Stolen Passport will be entered in our Consular Lost/Stolen Passport System.
• If you recover the passport after you have reported it lost or stolen, please submit it to the address listed above. When you submit it, if requested - we will cancel it and return it to you. If not requested, it will be destroyed.
• Once a passport is reported lost or stolen, it cannot be re-validated.

Complete Form DS-11: Application for a New U.S. Passport

One of the criteria that you must meet in order to apply for a passport renewal by mail is that you have to be able to submit your previously-issued, undamaged passport. Applicants who have lost their travel document are unable to submit them and, therefore, must apply in person to get a new passport using Form DS-11.

Just like reporting the lost passport, you have two options for completing the application form. One, you can complete Form DS-11 online or you can complete the application for a new U.S. passport offline and then print it.

If you print the application first and complete it offline, be sure to use black ink and write as legibly as possible. Note, you should not sign the application until asked to do so by an acceptance agent.

Gather Supporting Documents

All documents required for a first-time passport will have to be submitted together with the completed application in order to replace your passport. Following is a list of the documents you will need.

• Evidence of U.S. citizenship
• Proof of identity
• Photocopy of the identification document
• One (1) recent passport photo

The document submitted as evidence of citizenship must be an original or a certified copy. It will be returned to you after the application is processed. It is recommended that you use protective packaging and a traceable delivery method.

Parents or guardians who are applying to replace the lost passport of a minor also need to submit evidence of their relationship to the child. Valid photo IDs of both parents or guardians are also required. One parent or guardian can apply if evidence of sole legal custody can be submitted.

Visit an Application Acceptance Facility

The completed application form and supporting documents must be submitted to an authorized acceptance agent at an application acceptance facility. Passport offices are often located in post offices, county and municipal government offices and public libraries. Some facilities offer on-site photo services. You can schedule an appointment online.

An Acceptance Agent will examine your application and supporting documents. An oath will be administered and you will be asked to sign the application. Payment for the execution fee is paid to the Acceptance Agent. Payment for the application fee is made to the U.S. Department of State and should be sent with the application and documents.

Lost Passport Replacement FAQ

How long does it take to replace a lost passport?

Standard processing is estimated to take up to 6 weeks. Expedited service usually takes 2-3 weeks. Applications submitted at a regional agency are usually processed the same day. Applicants who need a replacement fast but who cannot visit the nearest agency, can authorize a registered expediting service to submit the application for them. Note, the applicant must visit a nearby application acceptance office first to have the application adjudicated before mailing it to the expediter. It must also be accompanied by two authorization letters, one inside the sealed envelope and another outside it.

How much does it cost to replace a lost passport?

The application fee for a new passport is $110. The execution fee is $35. The expedited service fee is $60. You can also request overnight delivery of your new passport for an additional fee. Third-passport expediter fees vary depending on how quickly you need to get your passport replaced.

Can I still travel if I lost my passport?

A valid passport is required for all international travel by air. Therefore, you will not be allowed to board an international flight if your passport has been lost. You must apply to have it replaced.

The passport I lost is a card. Is the process to replace it the same?

Yes, the procedure is the same as listed above.

Can you replace a lost passport online?

While you can report the lost passport, complete the application for a new passport online and schedule an appointment at an acceptance facility or regional agency online, you still must apply in person. There is no other way to get a new passport.

Do I need to report my lost passport if it is expired?

No, you do not. Just follow all the steps above except for completing Form Ds-64.

I found my passport. Can I still use it?

Once you report a lost passport, it is invalidated and can no longer be used for international travel.

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