🛂 How to Replace a Lost or Stolen U.S. Passport
Report a valid lost or stolen U.S. passport promptly so the State Department can cancel it. Once reported, the passport is no longer valid for travel even if you later find it.
Use the State Department's official lost or stolen passport page. Reporting does not replace it; a replacement generally requires a new in-person application.
If you are abroad, contact the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate and explain upcoming travel. Emergency or limited-validity documents may follow different replacement steps after you return.
Consider reviewing credit and identity accounts when theft may expose other personal documents. A police report is not always required for passport replacement, but it can document the incident and may be requested in particular circumstances.
Do not travel with a reported passport or alter a damaged replacement document. Verify the newest photo, fee, appointment, and citizenship-evidence instructions immediately before the in-person visit.
📋 Documents you'll need
- Missing passport details or photocopy when available
- Form DS-64 report information
- Completed but unsigned Form DS-11
- Evidence of U.S. citizenship
- Valid identity document and photocopy
- Compliant passport photo
- Travel itinerary and police report when relevant
🪜 Step-by-step
- Confirm the missing passport is still valid.
- Report it through the official State Department method.
- Record confirmation and understand it cannot be reactivated.
- Prepare Form DS-11 and required DS-64 information.
- Gather citizenship, identity, copies, photo, and fees.
- Find an acceptance facility or passport agency.
- Appear in person and submit the replacement application.
- Track the application and secure the new passport.
| Estimated cost | Reporting is free. A replacement application generally requires current application and execution fees; expedited or urgent services cost extra. |
|---|---|
| Typical timeline | Routine and expedited times change with demand. Urgent international travel may qualify for a passport-agency appointment. |
Frequently asked questions
Can I use the passport if I find it?
No. A reported lost or stolen passport is invalid.
Does reporting automatically send a new one?
No. You must submit a separate replacement application, generally in person.
What if I lose it abroad?
Contact the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate and explain immediate travel needs.