What do I do with a damaged passport?
by joanne
(pa)
Question: My passport went in the washer and was damaged. What do I do with it?
Answer: Significantly damaged passports can neither be used for international travel nor are they eligible for renewal by mail. To
replace the damaged passport you must appear at an application acceptance facility in order to
apply for a new passport.
The State Department website states that water damage MAY constitute “damage” requiring use of
Form DS-11. If the the book cover or the page displaying your personal data and photo have been damaged, you will definitely need to replace it.
If you have no plans to replace the passport, then you can either keep it as a memento or mail it to passport services where it will be invalidated.
Return to Passport Replacement FAQ.
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UPDATE:
High demand and mailing delays are impacting how long it takes to get a passport.
- Standard service is currently taking between 10 and 13 weeks.
- Expedited service is currently taking between 7 to 9 weeks.
NOTE: Processing times begin when applications are received at a passport agency or center. Requesting 1-2-day mailing service is recommended.
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