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How to Replace Your Damaged U.S. Passport

A damaged passport can halt your travel plans, but replacing it doesn't have to be complicated. Whether your passport has water damage, torn pages, or significant wear, we'll guide you through every step of the replacement process. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know to get your new passport quickly and correctly.

Understanding Passport Damage

What Qualifies as Damage?

The U.S. Department of State considers a passport damaged if it has water damage, tears in the data page, missing pages, unauthorized markings, or excessive wear that makes information illegible. Even minor damage can prevent you from traveling internationally.

If you're unsure whether your passport qualifies as damaged, it's better to replace it before your trip than risk being turned away at the border. Immigration officials have strict standards for passport condition.

Why Replace It Now?

Many countries require your passport to be in good condition for entry. Airlines may refuse boarding if your passport shows significant damage. Additionally, damaged passports cannot be renewed through the standard mail-in process—you'll need to apply in person.

Processing times vary, so start early. Standard processing takes 6-8 weeks, while expedited service can reduce this to 2-3 weeks for an additional fee.

Required Documents Checklist

DS-11 Application Form

Complete online at the State Department website. Print with barcode but don't sign until your appointment.

Two Passport Photos

Recent 2×2 inch photos taken within the last 3 months. No glasses allowed.

Proof of Citizenship

Original or certified birth certificate or naturalization certificate. No abstract forms.

Proof of Travel

Itinerary or airline ticket showing travel within 14-21 days.

Your Damaged Passport

The original damaged passport must be submitted with your application.

Payment

$212.05 to U.S. Department of State plus $35 facility fee paid separately.

Step 1: Complete Your DS-11 Application

Begin by visiting https://pptform.state.gov/FraudAbuseNotice.aspx to complete your DS-11 New Passport Application online. First, acknowledge that you've read the Privacy and Computer Fraud and Abuse Acts Notices by checking the appropriate box and clicking Submit. On the next page, select Submit under the "Apply Online" tab to begin your application.

Critical Application Guidelines

Name Information

Include all names exactly as they appear on your birth certificate or naturalization document. Any discrepancies can delay processing or result in rejection.

Passport Size Selection

Consider selecting the Large Book option if you travel internationally on a frequent basis. The large book contains extra pages for stamps and visas.

Processing Options

Choose "Expedited at Agency Service" for $60 if you need faster processing. Select "Standard Delivery" for free return shipping of your new passport.

Printing Requirements

Print the application once you've submitted it online. The printed form will include an auto-generated barcode that must be clearly visible.

Photo Requirements

Passport Photo Specifications

You'll need two identical color passport photos that meet specific requirements. Photos must be exactly 2×2 inches in size and taken within the last three months. The background must be white or off-white with no shadows.

  • Face the camera directly with a neutral expression
  • Photos must be in color, not black and white
  • No glasses are permitted—this is strictly enforced
  • Wear normal street attire (no uniforms or hats except religious headwear)
  • Ears should be visible and hair pulled back from face

For detailed photo guidelines and examples of acceptable photos, visit the official U.S. Department of State website at https://travel.state.gov/content/passports. Many pharmacies, post offices, and professional photo services offer passport photo services that meet these requirements.

Proof of Citizenship Requirements

Acceptable Citizenship Documents

You must submit original or certified proof of U.S. citizenship with your application. The most commonly used documents are an original certified birth certificate issued by the city, county, or state of birth, or an original naturalization certificate. These documents will be returned to you along with your new passport, so don't worry about losing them permanently.

Certified Birth Certificate

Must be the full "long form" certificate with a raised seal, issued by the appropriate government authority. Hospital-issued certificates or souvenirs are not acceptable.

Naturalization Certificate

Original Certificate of Naturalization (Form N-550 or N-570) issued by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services.

Consular Report of Birth Abroad

Form FS-240 for U.S. citizens born abroad to American parents.

Step 2: Visit an Acceptance Agent

Getting Your Documents Authorized

Once you've gathered all required documents, you must present them to a government-authorized Passport Acceptance Agent. These agents are typically located at post offices, courthouses, and public libraries throughout the United States. This critical step ensures your application is properly witnessed and authorized.

To find the nearest acceptance facility, visit http://iafdb.travel.state.gov/. We strongly recommend calling ahead to confirm hours of operation, whether appointments are required, and which forms of payment they accept. Some facilities only accept specific payment methods for the $35.00 execution fee.

01

Schedule Your Appointment

Contact your chosen facility to book an appointment time that works for your schedule.

02

Bring All Required Documents

Present your unsigned DS-11 form, photos, citizenship proof, damaged passport, travel proof, and payment.

03

Sign in Front of Agent

The Acceptance Agent will verify your identity and witness your signature on the application form.

04

Pay the Execution Fee

Pay the $35.00 fee directly to the acceptance facility by cash, check, credit card, or money order.

05

Receive Sealed Envelope

The agent will seal your documents in an official envelope. Do not open this envelope under any circumstances.

What Gets Sealed in the Envelope

  • Your completed and signed DS-11 application form
  • Two color passport photos
  • Original proof of U.S. citizenship
  • Your damaged passport
  • Completed authorization form
  • Proof of travel documentation
  • Money order or check for $212.05 payable to U.S. Department of State

Understanding Processing Times & Fees

6-8

Weeks

Standard processing time for routine service

2-3

Weeks

Expedited processing time with $60 additional fee

$212

Application Fee

Payable to U.S. Department of State

$35

Execution Fee

Paid separately at acceptance facility

Payment Methods

For the $212.05 application fee, you must provide a personal check or money order made payable to "U.S. Department of State." This payment will be sealed in your envelope. The separate $35.00 execution fee is paid directly to the acceptance facility and can typically be paid by cash, check, credit card, or money order—but confirm accepted payment methods when you schedule your appointment.

If you need expedited processing, the additional $60 fee can be included with your application. Expedited service reduces processing time but does not include expedited delivery unless you also purchase overnight shipping separately.

Step 3: Submit Your Application Package

Final Submission Requirements

After your documents have been authorized and sealed by the Acceptance Agent, you're ready for the final step. You must send your complete application package to the designated processing office. This sealed envelope contains all your original documents and fees, so handle it with care.

1

Verify Envelope Contents

Ensure the Acceptance Agent has sealed all required documents in the envelope. Remember: DO NOT OPEN THE SEALED ENVELOPE under any circumstances, as this will invalidate your application.

2

Make Complete Copies

Before mailing, create one full set of copies of ALL documents that were placed inside the sealed envelope. Keep these copies for your records.

3

Mail Your Package

Send the sealed envelope along with your complete copy set to the designated processing address. Use a trackable mailing method for peace of mind.

What Happens Next?

Once your application is received, the State Department will process your request according to the service level you selected. You can track your application status online using the application number provided. Your new passport and original citizenship documents will be mailed back to you separately in secure packaging.

Tips for a Smooth Application Process

Before You Apply

  • Review all requirements carefully before gathering documents
  • Check your birth certificate—order a certified copy if you only have the short form
  • Schedule your acceptance agent appointment well in advance
  • Have passport photos taken professionally to ensure they meet requirements
  • Consider expedited processing if traveling within 8 weeks

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Signing the DS-11 form before your appointment
  • Making corrections or using white-out on the application
  • Submitting abstract or short form birth certificates
  • Wearing glasses in passport photos
  • Opening the sealed envelope from the acceptance agent
  • Waiting until the last minute to apply

Need Help?

If you have questions about any part of the application process, contact the National Passport Information Center at 1-877-487-2778 or visit the official State Department website. For urgent travel needs within 14 days, you may be eligible for an expedited appointment at a regional passport agency.