Replacing a Lost or Stolen U.S. Passport: What You Need to Know

Losing your U.S. passport can be a stressful experience, especially when you have travel plans. If your passport is reported lost or stolen, you cannot use the standard renewal process. Instead, you must apply in person for a new passport using a specific form. This process ensures the security of your travel documents and requires careful attention to detail.

The Importance of Reporting a Lost or Stolen Passport

When you realize your passport is missing, the first step is to report it to the U.S. Department of State. This action invalidates the document, preventing anyone else from using it for travel. You have three main ways to report a lost or stolen passport:

• Online: You can use the State Department’s Form Filler tool. This method is the quickest, with the department canceling the document within one business day and sending an email confirmation.
• By Mail: You can submit Form DS-64, along with a photocopy of your photo ID, to the State Department. This process can take several weeks for cancellation.
• With a Replacement Application: You can report the loss when you submit your application for a new passport. This method also involves a waiting period of several weeks for cancellation.

It is crucial to understand that reporting your passport missing does not automatically replace it. You must complete a separate application to obtain a new travel document.

Why You Must Apply in Person for a Replacement

If your U.S. passport has been reported lost or stolen, you cannot use the mail-in or online renewal options available for standard passport renewals. The U.S. Department of State requires you to apply in person using Form DS-11. This rule applies whether you are in the United States or abroad.

The reason for this in-person requirement is to verify your identity and ensure that the new passport is issued to the correct individual. This is a security measure to prevent fraudulent applications. Even if you later find the original passport, it is no longer valid for travel once it has been reported lost or stolen. You must notify the department and send it in for cancellation.

How to Apply in Person Using Form DS-11

Applying in person for a replacement passport involves several steps. If you are in the United States, you will need to visit an authorized passport acceptance facility. Here’s what you need to do:

1. Complete Form DS-11: Download and fill out Form DS-11, but do not sign it until you are instructed to do so by an acceptance agent.
2. Gather Supporting Documents: You will need to bring several documents with you to the acceptance facility:

• Proof of U.S. Citizenship: This can be an original or certified copy of your U.S. birth certificate, a previous U.S. passport, a Certificate of Naturalization, or a Certificate of Citizenship. You will also need a photocopy of this document.
• Valid Photo ID: Bring a valid government-issued photo ID, such as a driver’s license or state ID. You will need a photocopy of the front and back of this ID. If your ID is from a different state than where you are applying, you may need a second form of identification.
• Passport Photo: Provide one recent, color passport photo that meets the Department of State’s specific requirements.
• Police Report (if applicable): If you filed a police report about the lost or stolen passport, bring a copy of it.

3. Attend Your Appointment: Go to your appointment at the acceptance facility. The agent will review your documents and have you sign Form DS-11 in their presence.
4. Pay the Fees: You will need to pay two fees: a passport application fee made payable to the Department of State, and an acceptance fee made payable to the facility. Expedited processing is available for an additional fee.

Processing Times and Expedited Service

The time it takes to receive your replacement passport depends on the processing speed you choose. Routine processing typically takes 4-6 weeks, not including mailing time. Expedited processing shortens this to 2-3 weeks, also excluding mailing time.

It’s important to remember that these times do not include the time it takes for your application to reach the Department of State or for the new passport to be mailed back to you. The entire process, from mailing to delivery, can add several weeks.

If you have urgent international travel plans, you may be able to make an appointment at a passport agency or center. These appointments are usually available within 14 days of your travel date. You will need to provide proof of your upcoming international travel.

Applying Abroad

If you are outside the United States when your passport is lost or stolen, you should contact the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate. They will provide specific instructions on how to apply for a replacement passport. Generally, you will still need to apply in person and provide similar documentation as you would in the United States. The embassy or consulate will guide you through the process and help you obtain the necessary travel documents.

Frequently Asked Questions