Steps to Replace a Lost or Stolen U.S. Passport

Last updated 5 months ago. Our resources are updated regularly but please keep in mind that links, programs, policies, and contact information do change.

Discovering that a U.S. passport is lost or has been stolen can be stressful, whether at home or abroad. However, there is a clear, established process for addressing this situation. Acting quickly is key, not only to potentially recover the document but, more importantly, to protect your identity.

The process involves two fundamental phases: first, immediately reporting the passport as lost or stolen to the U.S. Department of State, and second, applying for a replacement passport. The specific steps for obtaining a replacement differ based on whether you’re currently within the United States or located in a foreign country.

This guide uses information sourced from the U.S. Department of State, Bureau of Consular Affairs to effectively navigate this process.

Step 1: Report Your Valid Passport Lost or Stolen Immediately

The first and most critical action upon realizing a valid passport is missing is to report it immediately to the U.S. Department of State. This step is non-negotiable and serves several vital functions.

Why Reporting is Non-Negotiable

• Passport Invalidation: Once a passport is officially reported as lost or stolen, the Department of State electronically cancels it and flags it in its systems. This invalidation is permanent. Even if you later find the document, it cannot be used for international travel. Attempting to travel with a passport that has been reported lost or stolen can lead to significant travel delays, detention by border officials, or denial of entry into or exit from a country. It is crucial to be certain the passport is genuinely lost or stolen before reporting it, as the invalidation cannot be reversed.
• Identity Theft Protection: Prompt reporting is a crucial measure to protect against identity theft. Lost and stolen passports are valuable commodities for criminals and terrorists who may attempt to use them for fraudulent purposes, including crossing borders undetected. Reporting the loss immediately helps prevent the unauthorized use of your identity.
• System Notification: The reported information is entered into the Department of State’s Consular Lost and Stolen Passport (CLASP) system. This database information is shared with domestic and international border control authorities and law enforcement agencies (like INTERPOL) to prevent the passport’s misuse.

How to Report (Choose ONE method)

There are several ways to report a valid U.S. passport as lost or stolen. The best method depends on your location and whether you intend to apply for a replacement immediately.

• Online (Recommended): The quickest and often most efficient method is to use the Department of State’s online tools. You can report the passport lost or stolen via the relevant section on the official website or directly through the online form filler. This online system can generate the necessary Form DS-64 (Statement Regarding a Lost or Stolen U.S. Passport). Furthermore, the form filler may prompt you if you wish to apply for a replacement passport simultaneously, in which case it can also generate the required Form DS-11 (Application for a U.S. Passport).
• By Phone (Only if in the U.S.): If you’re currently within the United States, you can report the loss by calling the National Passport Information Center toll-free at 1-877-487-2778 (TTY: 1-888-874-7793). A representative will guide you through the reporting process. It is critical to note that this phone reporting option is not available for individuals located outside the United States.
• By Mail (If Not Immediately Replacing): If you don’t need to replace the passport right away, you can report it by mail. This involves completing Form DS-64 (PDF), printing it, signing it, and mailing it along with a photocopy of the front and back of a government-issued photo identification (like a driver’s license). This form should be mailed only to the specific address listed on the form for reporting purposes: ATTN: CLASP, U.S. Department of State, P.O. Box 1227, Sterling, VA 20166-1227. This method is the slowest and should only be used when not concurrently applying for a replacement passport.
• In Person (When Applying for Replacement): You can report the lost or stolen passport simultaneously with applying for a replacement. This involves completing Form DS-64 and submitting it together with Form DS-11 and all other required documentation during the in-person application process at a designated passport acceptance facility, a U.S. passport agency, or a U.S. embassy or consulate abroad.

Form DS-64: Statement Regarding a Lost or Stolen U.S. Passport

Form DS-64 is the official document used to notify the Department of State about the loss or theft of a valid U.S. passport book and/or card. Completing this form requires providing:

• Personal identifying information (full name, date of birth, place of birth, Social Security Number – providing the SSN is voluntary but failure to do so may cause processing delays).
• Current contact information (address, phone number, email).
• Details about the lost or stolen passport, if known (passport number, issue date – note that book and card have different numbers).
• A detailed explanation of the circumstances surrounding the loss or theft (how, when, and where it occurred; provide address if known).
• Indication of whether a police report was filed (a copy should be submitted if available, though not strictly required for replacement abroad).
• For minors under age 16, Form DS-64 generally must be signed by both parents or legal guardians, who must also provide photocopies of their IDs, unless one parent can provide documentation of sole legal authority to obtain the passport (e.g., court order, Form DS-5525).

Important Considerations

• Expired Passports: It is unnecessary and incorrect to report an expired passport as lost or stolen using Form DS-64. An expired passport is already invalid for international travel.
• Found Passport: To reiterate, if a passport is found after it has been reported lost or stolen, it is permanently invalid and must not be used for travel. The found passport should be mailed to the Consular Lost and Stolen Passport Unit (CLASP) at the Sterling, VA address for cancellation.
• Reporting Abroad: For U.S. citizens outside the United States, the immediate course of action is to contact the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate. They will provide guidance on reporting the loss (which typically involves Form DS-64) and initiating the replacement process within that country. The U.S. Embassy and Consulate finder is available online.

Step 2: Apply for a Replacement Passport

After reporting the passport lost or stolen, the next phase is applying for a replacement. A critical point is that replacing a lost or stolen passport always necessitates applying in person using Form DS-11, “Application for a U.S. Passport”. Standard renewal procedures (Form DS-82, mail-in, or online renewal) are not applicable in this situation because the previous passport cannot be submitted. The specific application venue and process depend on your location.

Scenario A: Replacing Your Passport Inside the United States

For individuals within the U.S., the process involves applying at a designated passport acceptance facility.

1. Complete Forms: You must fill out Form DS-11, Application for a U.S. Passport, and Form DS-64, Statement Regarding a Lost or Stolen U.S. Passport. Using the online form filler tool is strongly recommended to ensure accuracy and reduce errors. Both forms should be printed single-sided. Crucially, Form DS-11 must NOT be signed until you are in the presence of an authorized passport acceptance agent. Form DS-64 should be completed and signed.
2. Gather Supporting Documents: A complete application package requires several key documents:
   • Proof of U.S. Citizenship: An original or certified copy, plus a photocopy. (See Section 4A for details).
   • Proof of Identity: An original, valid, government-issued photo ID, plus a photocopy. (See Section 4B for details).
   • Passport Photo: One color photograph meeting all official requirements. (See Section 4C for details).
   • Fees: Payment for both the Application Fee and the Execution (Acceptance) Fee. (See Section 4D for details).
3. Find a Passport Acceptance Facility: Applicants must submit their package in person at an official passport acceptance facility. These are commonly located in post offices, public libraries, or county/municipal government offices. Many facilities require appointments, so it is essential to check beforehand. The official search tool is available at iafdb.travel.state.gov.
4. Submit Application In Person: Bring the completed (but unsigned DS-11) forms, original proof of citizenship and identity documents, photocopies of these documents, the passport photo, and the required fees to the acceptance facility appointment. The acceptance agent will verify your identity, witness the signing of Form DS-11 under oath, review the documentation, collect the execution fee, and forward the entire package (including the application fee payment) to the Department of State for processing.

Scenario B: Replacing Your Passport Outside the United States

For U.S. citizens abroad, the process centers around the local U.S. embassy or consulate.

1. Contact the Nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate: This is the mandatory first step. You must contact the Consular Section of the nearest embassy or consulate to report the passport lost or stolen and inquire about their specific procedures for replacement, including appointment requirements. Contact information can be found via the embassy finder or through country-specific information pages. Family members in the U.S. can assist by contacting the Office of Overseas Citizens Services (1-888-407-4747 or +1 202-501-4444) to help connect the traveler with the appropriate post.
2. Apply In Person at the Embassy/Consulate: Similar to applying within the U.S., the application must be submitted in person at the embassy or consulate.
3. Required Forms & Documents: While requirements are similar to domestic applications, travelers abroad may not have all original documents readily available. They should bring whatever they possess from the following list:
   • Form DS-11: Application for a U.S. Passport. Complete, print single-sided, but do NOT sign.
   • Form DS-64: Statement Regarding a Lost or Stolen Passport. Complete and sign.
   • Passport Photo: One recent photo meeting requirements. Obtaining this in advance can expedite the process.
   • Identification: Any available proof of identity (e.g., driver’s license, copy of the lost passport, expired passport).
   • Evidence of U.S. Citizenship: Any available proof (e.g., birth certificate, photocopy of the lost passport).
   • Travel Itinerary: Proof of onward travel (airline/train tickets), especially if urgent processing is needed.
   • Police Report (Optional but Recommended): A report filed with local police can help document the circumstances but is not mandatory for the embassy/consulate process.
   • Fees: Passport fees are required and are generally the same as applying in the U.S., though payment methods vary by post (check the specific embassy/consulate website). Options for financial assistance or having someone in the U.S. pay may be available in emergencies. Fee waivers might apply in very specific disaster/crime victim scenarios.

Consular staff understand the difficulties travelers face when documents are lost abroad and will assist applicants even if they cannot provide all the listed items. This suggests a degree of flexibility in verification processes overseas compared to domestic applications, offering reassurance to those stranded without ideal documentation.

4. Emergency Limited-Validity Passports: For travelers with imminent departure dates who cannot wait for a standard replacement (which takes longer when processed abroad), the embassy or consulate has the authority to issue an emergency, limited-validity passport. These passports typically have a validity of one year or less and are intended to allow the traveler to return to the U.S. or complete essential travel. It is important to note that some countries may not accept these limited passports for entry. Upon returning to the U.S., the emergency passport can usually be replaced with a full-validity passport at no additional charge if done within one year, often using Form DS-5504. Information on replacing these is available at the limited validity passport page. This emergency passport function highlights the critical role of U.S. embassies and consulates as essential support centers for citizens facing urgent situations abroad.

Essential Information for Your Application Package

Whether applying inside or outside the U.S., the application package for a lost/stolen passport replacement (using Form DS-11) requires specific documentation and adherence to strict standards.

Proving Your U.S. Citizenship (Original + Photocopy Required)

Evidence of U.S. citizenship is a fundamental requirement, proving the applicant’s eligibility for a passport. Applicants must submit one acceptable primary document – either the original or a certified copy – and a photocopy. The photocopy must be black and white, single-sided, on standard 8.5×11 inch white paper, and clear/legible. Digital or mobile versions of documents like birth certificates are not acceptable.

Table: Primary Evidence of U.S. Citizenship

The detailed and stringent requirements for U.S. birth certificates underscore that not just any record of birth is sufficient. The emphasis on the official seal, registrar’s signature, and filing date signifies a high verification standard, preventing the use of less official documents like hospital certificates and avoiding application delays.

If primary evidence is unavailable, applicants may need to submit secondary evidence, such as a Delayed Birth Certificate or a Letter of No Record, along with Early Public Records. For detailed guidance on these alternative documents, consult the official Citizenship Evidence page.

Proving Your Identity (Original + Photocopy Required)

Applicants must also present proof of their identity. This requires submitting one acceptable primary photo identification document. The ID must be a physical document (digital or mobile IDs are not accepted) issued by a government authority and must contain a recognizable photograph of the applicant. Like citizenship evidence, both the original ID and a clear, black and white, single-sided photocopy (front and back) on 8.5×11 inch paper are required.

Table: Primary Photo Identification

The explicit rejection of digital IDs and the specific requirements for physical documents and their photocopies are crucial details. Adhering to these prevents common errors that could delay the application.

If an applicant cannot provide any primary photo ID, they must present at least two acceptable secondary identification documents (e.g., Social Security card, student ID, expired driver’s license). The full list and requirements are on the official Identification page.

Passport Photo Requirements

A compliant passport photo is essential for the application. One color photograph, taken within the last six months to reflect the applicant’s current appearance, must be submitted. Photos that do not meet the strict requirements are a common cause of application delays or rejections. Key rules include:

• Size and Head Position: The photo must be exactly 2×2 inches (51×51 mm). The head, measured from the bottom of the chin to the top of the hair, must be between 1 inch and 1 3/8 inches (25-35 mm).
• Background: Must be plain white or off-white, with no shadows, patterns, textures, or lines.
• Expression and Pose: The applicant must face the camera directly with their full face in view. A neutral facial expression or a natural smile (with mouth closed) is required. Both eyes must be open. No tilting the head.
• Eyeglasses: Eyeglasses are not permitted in passport photos (effective November 1, 2016). Exceptions are made only in rare medical circumstances where glasses cannot be removed, requiring a signed doctor’s statement. Even then, the frames must not cover the eyes, and there must be no glare or shadows.
• Attire and Head Coverings: Normal daily attire should be worn. Uniforms (except for religious clothing worn daily), clothing resembling uniforms, or camouflage attire are not allowed. Hats or head coverings are prohibited unless worn daily for religious or medical purposes; a signed statement is required in these cases, and the full face must remain visible without shadows. Headphones and wireless devices are not permitted. Jewelry and facial piercings are acceptable if they do not obscure the face.
• Photo Quality and Integrity: The photo must be high-resolution, clear, and in focus, without blurriness, graininess, or pixelation. It must be printed on matte or glossy photo-quality paper. Critically, the photo must not be digitally altered, enhanced, or changed using computer software, phone apps, filters, or artificial intelligence. Scanned photos, photocopies, or damaged photos (holes, creases, smudges) are unacceptable.

Photos can be obtained professionally from passport acceptance facilities that offer photo services, commercial photo providers, or taken at home, provided all rules are strictly followed. Given the strictness, especially the “no eyeglasses” and “no digital alteration” rules, using a professional service can help avoid rejection.

For detailed visual examples and further guidance, refer to the official Passport Photos page.

Understanding Passport Fees

Replacing a lost or stolen passport incurs the same fees as applying for a first-time passport. When applying in the United States using Form DS-11, applicants must pay two separate fees:

• Application Fee: Paid directly to the U.S. Department of State.
• Execution (Acceptance) Fee: Paid directly to the passport acceptance facility where the application is submitted.

Understanding this two-payment structure is essential to avoid confusion and delays at the acceptance facility.

Table: Fees for DS-11 Application (Lost/Stolen Replacement in U.S.)

Optional Fees (Paid to U.S. Department of State):

• Expedited Service: $60 per application (speeds up processing time, see Section 5).
• 1-2 Day Delivery: $21.36 per application (for faster return shipping of the completed passport book only).

Payment Methods:

• Application Fee (to Dept. of State): Must be paid by check (personal, certified, cashier’s, traveler’s) or money order, made payable to “U.S. Department of State”. It is advisable to write the applicant’s full name and date of birth on the memo line. Cash is not accepted for mailed payments (relevant if upgrading service later).
• Execution Fee (to Acceptance Facility): Payment methods vary by facility. Many accept checks, money orders, debit cards, or credit cards. Applicants should confirm acceptable payment methods with the specific facility beforehand.
• Abroad (at Embassy/Consulate): Payment methods differ by location. Applicants should consult the specific embassy or consulate website. Common methods include cash (USD or local currency), debit/credit cards, or potentially online payment via Pay.gov.

For the most current and comprehensive fee information, visit the official Passport Fees page.

Processing Times & Getting Your Passport Faster

Understanding passport processing times is crucial, especially if travel is planned. The Department of State provides estimates for different service levels.

Standard Processing

• Routine Service: The standard processing time is typically several weeks (e.g., 4-6 weeks as per recent sources).
• Important Note on Timing: This estimated processing time only covers the period the application is actively being processed at a passport agency or center. It does not include mailing times. It can take up to two weeks for the application to arrive at the processing facility after being sent from the acceptance facility, and another two weeks for the completed passport to arrive back to the applicant after being mailed. Therefore, the Total Turnaround Time = Mailing Time (to facility) + Processing Time + Mailing Time (return). Applicants must factor in these additional mailing periods when planning travel based on routine processing estimates.

The most up-to-date processing times are always available on the official processing times page.

Expedited Service

• Timeline: Expedited service significantly reduces the processing time (e.g., 2-3 weeks as per recent sources), but still excludes mailing times.
• Cost: An additional fee of $60 must be paid per application, submitted along with the standard application fee to the U.S. Department of State.
• How to Request: When applying in person (required for lost/stolen passports), the applicant should inform the acceptance agent they want expedited service and include the $60 fee with their payment to the Department of State. If an application was already submitted via routine service, it may be possible to upgrade to expedited service by calling the National Passport Information Center (1-877-487-2778), though this is not guaranteed.

1-2 Day Delivery Option

• Purpose: This optional service provides faster return shipping for the completed passport book after it has been processed and printed.
• Cost: An additional fee (e.g., $21.36) paid with the application fee.
• Limitations: This service does not expedite the application processing time itself. It is only for the return delivery of the passport book; passport cards and supporting documents (like birth certificates) are returned separately via standard First Class Mail.

Urgent Travel Needs (Within 14 Days)

• Requirement: Individuals with documented international travel scheduled within 14 calendar days (or needing a foreign visa within 28 calendar days) cannot rely on standard or expedited mail service.
• Solution: Passport Agency/Center Appointment: These individuals must schedule an appointment to apply in person at one of the U.S. Department of State’s regional passport agencies or centers. These facilities are distinct from passport acceptance facilities (like post offices).
• Booking an Appointment: Appointments are mandatory (no walk-ins) and can be extremely limited. They can be requested by calling the National Passport Information Center at 1-877-487-2778 or attempting to book through the Online Passport Appointment System. Proof of the urgent international travel (e.g., flight itinerary) is required. There is no fee to book the appointment itself, but all standard application and potentially expedited fees apply.
• Resource: More information is on the Get My Passport Fast page.

Life-or-Death Emergencies

• Definition: This category applies to situations requiring international travel within 72 hours (3 business days) due to an immediate family member (specifically parent, legal guardian, child, spouse, sibling, or grandparent) outside the U.S. having died, being critically ill/injured (requiring hospitalization or hospice care), or dying. Travel for the applicant’s own medical treatment abroad does not qualify.
• Procedure: Applicants must gather proof of the emergency (e.g., death certificate, signed letter from hospital/mortuary – translated if not in English), proof of imminent international travel, and all required application materials (DS-11, DS-64, citizenship proof, ID, photo, fees). They must then call specific phone numbers to request an emergency appointment at a passport agency: 1-877-487-2778 during business hours, or 202-647-4000 after hours, on weekends, and federal holidays.
• Resource: Details are on the Life-or-Death Emergencies page.

Processing Abroad

• Timeline: Obtaining a full-validity replacement passport from a U.S. embassy or consulate abroad generally takes longer than expedited service within the U.S., often estimated at 4-8 weeks or more, as applications are typically forwarded to the U.S. for printing. Standard U.S. expedited service options are usually not available overseas.
• Urgent Needs: For urgent travel needs while abroad, the primary solution is the emergency limited-validity passport issued directly by the embassy or consulate, often within the next business day if requirements are met.

This tiered system of processing speeds—Routine, Expedited, Urgent Agency, Life-or-Death Emergency, and Emergency Abroad—reflects a hierarchy designed to address varying levels of urgency, each with distinct procedures, costs, and eligibility criteria.

Preventing Loss or Theft & Other Practical Tips

While knowing how to replace a lost or stolen passport is essential, taking steps to prevent the situation in the first place is always preferable. Additionally, some practical tips can ease the process and enhance travel safety.

Safeguarding Your Passport

• Make Copies and Digital Backups: Before traveling, make photocopies of the passport identification page. Keep one copy separate from the actual passport while traveling, and leave another copy with a trusted friend or relative at home. Taking a clear photograph of the passport data page with a smartphone also provides a readily accessible electronic backup. Having a copy can significantly aid the replacement process if the original is lost.
• Secure Storage During Travel: When not needed for transit or official purposes, store the passport securely, such as in a hotel room safe or locked luggage. Be particularly vigilant in crowded public places like airports, train stations, and tourist sites, as these are common locations for theft. Consider using a concealed money belt or secure neck pouch. Never leave a passport unattended.

Travel Preparedness

• Check Passport Validity and Blank Pages: Well before any international trip, check the passport’s expiration date. Many countries require passports to be valid for at least six months beyond the planned stay. Also, ensure there are sufficient blank pages for entry/exit stamps and visas; some countries require two to four blank pages. If the passport is nearing expiration or lacks pages, apply for a renewal early, allowing ample time for processing. Remember, visa pages cannot be added to existing passports; a renewal is required.
• Enroll in STEP: U.S. citizens traveling or living abroad should enroll in the free Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP). This registration allows the local U.S. embassy or consulate to provide important safety and security alerts for the destination and makes it easier for them to contact the traveler or their emergency contacts in a crisis.
• Know Embassy/Consulate Information: Before departing, look up the location and contact information for the U.S. embassy or consulate(s) in the destination country or countries. Having this information readily available is crucial in case of emergencies, including a lost or stolen passport.
• Consider Travel Insurance: The U.S. government does not pay for medical expenses or emergency evacuations for citizens abroad. It is highly recommended to purchase travel insurance that includes coverage for emergency medical care and medical evacuation, as these costs can be exorbitant overseas. Check existing health insurance policies for overseas coverage limitations.

What to Do with Found Passports

• If You Find Your Own Passport After Reporting It: It cannot be stressed enough: this passport is permanently invalid and must not be used for travel. Attempting to use it can lead to serious consequences. The found passport should be submitted to the Department of State for formal cancellation by mailing it to: U.S. Department of State, Consular Lost and Stolen Passport Unit (CLASP), 44132 Mercure Circle, PO Box 1227, Sterling, VA 20166-1227. The repeated warnings about this indicate it’s a common point of confusion; finding the passport does not undo the report or restore its validity.
• If You Find Someone Else’s U.S. Passport:
  • Found within the U.S.: Mail the passport in a sturdy envelope to the CLASP address provided above.
  • Found outside the U.S.: Return the passport to the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.
• If You Find a Foreign Passport within the U.S.: Return the passport to the embassy or consulate of the country that issued it.

Passport Lost in the Mail

If an applicant has applied for a passport (new or replacement) and believes it or their returned supporting documents were lost during mailing, they should first check the application status online using the Online Passport Status System. If the system indicates mailing but the passport hasn’t arrived after two weeks, contact the National Passport Information Center at 1-877-487-2778.

A passport lost in the mail must be reported within 90 days of its issuance date. Failure to report within this timeframe requires submitting a new application and paying all fees again. The specific form for this situation is Form DS-86, Statement You Did Not Receive Your U.S. Passport.

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