We accidentally washed my passport. Do we need to get a new one?

by Mike
(Evergreen, Colorado)

Question: We accidentally washed my passport. The photo is still good but the blue cover looks worn. Do we need to get a new one?

Answer: Significantly damaged passports are no longer valid for travel nor can they be used to apply for a renewal. If your passport has been significantly damaged, especially the book cover or the page displaying your personal data and photo, you will need to apply for a new passport.

Looking "worn" may not constitute significant damage. The Department of State declares that "water damage, a significant tear, unofficial markings on the data page, missing visa pages (torn out), a hole punch and other injuries may constitute 'damage' requiring use of Form DS-11."

If you need to apply for a new passport, you must appear before a passport agent and submit the following documents:

* Application Form DS-11
* Evidence of Citizenship
* Proof of Identity
* Photocopy of Identification Document
* One Passport Photo

You can complete the form before arriving at the acceptance facility but remember not to sign it until the agent asks you to do so.

For complete instructions and to download the application, click the link below.

Apply for New Passport

Click the link below to locate a nearby acceptance facility.

Colorado Passport Offices

If you need to replace your passport quickly, click the link below.

Get Passport Fast