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Lost or Stolen U.S. Passport? Here's How to Replace It Fast

Losing your passport or having it stolen can be stressful, especially when you have travel plans. This comprehensive guide walks you through every step of the replacement process, ensuring you understand exactly what documents you need, how to get them authorized, and how to submit your application efficiently. Follow these clear instructions to get your new passport as quickly as possible.

Understanding the Three-Step Process

01

Prepare & Gather Documents

Complete online forms, take new passport photos, and collect all required citizenship documents and payment

02

Get Documents Authorized

Visit a Passport Acceptance Agent at your local post office or courthouse to have your application verified and sealed

03

Submit Your Application

Send your sealed envelope and document copies to the passport processing facility for expedited handling

The entire process typically takes 2-3 weeks with expedited service. Each step is crucial for a successful application, so read the detailed instructions carefully before you begin. Planning ahead and having all documents ready will help you avoid delays and resubmissions.

Step 1: Complete Your DS-11 Application Online

Begin your passport replacement by completing the DS-11 New Passport Application form online. Visit https://pptform.state.gov/FraudAbuseNotice.aspx and acknowledge the Privacy and Computer Fraud and Abuse Acts notices by selecting the checkbox and clicking SUBMIT.

On the next page, click SUBMIT under the "Apply Online" tab to access the digital application form. This online system generates a barcode that expedites processing at passport agencies nationwide.

Critical Application Guidelines

  • Include all names exactly as they appear on your Birth Certificate or Naturalization Document
  • Select "Large Book" if you travel internationally frequently (52 pages instead of 28)
  • Choose "Expedited at Agency Service" ($60) for processing method
  • Select "Standard Delivery" (FREE) for delivery method

Common Application Mistakes to Avoid

DO NOT Sign or Date Early

Your application must remain unsigned and undated until you're in front of the Passport Acceptance Agent. Applications signed beforehand will be rejected, causing delays and requiring you to start over.

NO Corrections Allowed

You cannot make any corrections on the printed application. No write-overs, scratch-outs, or white-out marks are permitted. If you make an error, you must complete a new application form online.

Complete the DS-64 Form

In addition to the DS-11, you must complete the DS-64 Statement Regarding a Lost or Stolen U.S. Passport form. This officially reports your passport as lost or stolen and prevents fraudulent use.

Photo Requirements: Get It Right the First Time

Passport Photo Specifications

You'll need two identical passport photos that meet strict U.S. Department of State requirements. Photos must be taken within the last three months and measure exactly 2×2 inches.

No Glasses Permitted

Eyeglasses are no longer allowed in passport photos, even if you wear them daily

Plain Background Required

Photos must have a white or off-white background with no patterns or shadows

Recent Photo Only

Photos must be taken within 3 months of your application date

Neutral Expression

Face the camera directly with a natural, neutral expression and both eyes open

Professional photo services at pharmacies, post offices, and photo studios are familiar with these requirements. We strongly recommend using a professional service rather than taking photos yourself to avoid rejection.

For complete photo guidelines, visit https://travel.state.gov/content/passports and review the official specifications before scheduling your photo appointment.

Required Documentation Checklist

1

Proof of U.S. Citizenship

Provide your original or certified birth certificate or naturalization certificate. Abstract "short form" birth certificates are NOT accepted. Your original documents will be returned with your new passport.

2

Proof of Travel

Submit a copy of your travel itinerary or airline ticket showing travel within 14 days of application, or 21 days if you need to apply for a visa before traveling.

3

Authorization Form

Complete and sign one authorization form that permits the processing facility to submit your passport application on your behalf to the State Department.

4

Complete Document Copies

Make one full copy of ALL required documents before your appointment. These copies will be submitted along with your sealed application envelope.

Understanding Passport Fees and Payment

State Department Fee: $212.05

Payment must be a money order or check made payable to U.S. DEPARTMENT OF STATE. This covers your new passport book and expedited processing fee. Cash is not accepted for this portion.

Acceptance Facility Fee: $35.00

This separate payment goes directly to the Passport Acceptance Agent when you present your documents. Most facilities accept credit cards, checks, cash, or money orders. Call ahead to confirm accepted payment methods.

The total cost for expedited passport replacement is $247.05. If you selected the Large Book option, fees may vary slightly. Keep receipts for all payments as proof of submission. These fees are non-refundable, even if your application is rejected due to documentation errors, so ensure everything is correct before submitting.

Step 2: Get Your Documents Authorized

Finding a Passport Acceptance Agent

Passport Acceptance Agents are authorized government officials located at post offices, courthouses, and some public libraries. To find the nearest location, visit http://iafdb.travel.state.gov/ and enter your ZIP code.

Before you visit:

  • Call ahead to confirm hours of operation
  • Ask if an appointment is required
  • Verify which payment methods are accepted
  • Confirm they process expedited applications

The Authorization Process

During your appointment, the Acceptance Agent will:

  1. Verify your identity using your identification
  1. Review all documents for completeness
  1. Watch you sign and date the DS-11 form
  1. Collect the $35.00 acceptance fee
  1. Place all documents in an official sealed envelope

Critical: Do NOT open the sealed envelope after leaving. Opening it invalidates your application and requires restarting the entire process.

What Gets Sealed in Your Envelope

Signed DS-11 Application Form

Your completed New Passport Application form with the barcode, now signed and dated in front of the Acceptance Agent

Two Passport Photos

Both original 2×2 inch color photographs meeting all State Department specifications

Original Citizenship Documents

Your original or certified birth certificate or naturalization certificate (these will be returned to you)

Proof of Travel Documentation

Copy of your airline ticket or travel itinerary showing departure within 14-21 days

Authorization Form

The completed and signed form permitting application submission on your behalf

Payment to State Department

Money order or check for $212.05 made payable to U.S. DEPARTMENT OF STATE

Step 3: Submit Your Application Package

Final Submission Requirements

Once you receive the sealed envelope from the Passport Acceptance Agent, you're ready for the final step. Send the following items to the designated passport processing facility:

  • The sealed envelope (unopened)
  • Complete photocopies of ALL documents inside the sealed envelope

Use a trackable shipping method such as USPS Priority Mail, FedEx, or UPS to ensure your application arrives safely. Keep your tracking number and monitor delivery status.

What Happens Next

After your application is received, processing typically takes 2-3 weeks with expedited service. Your new passport and original citizenship documents will be returned via your selected delivery method. You'll receive tracking information once your passport ships.

Processing Time

2-3 weeks for expedited service

Trackable Shipping

Use Priority Mail or courier service

Confirmation

You'll receive tracking when passport ships