Losing your passport can be a stressful experience, especially if you have upcoming travel plans. Knowing the steps to take immediately can help expedite the replacement process. This article outlines the fastest ways to replace a lost or stolen passport, both within the U.S. and abroad.
Reporting a Lost or Stolen Passport Immediately
The first crucial step is to report your passport as lost or stolen to prevent potential misuse. You can do this through several channels:
- Online: The most efficient method is to use the State Department’s online tool to submit Form DS-64.
- By Phone: Call the toll-free number 1-877-487-2778 (TTY 1-888-874-7793).
- By Mail: Complete Form DS-64 [PDF, 3.6MB] and mail it to the address specified on the form.
Once reported, your passport is invalidated and cannot be used, even if found later.
Alt: Online form DS-64 for reporting a lost or stolen passport on the U.S. Department of State website.
Replacing a Lost or Stolen Passport Inside the U.S.
If you’re in the U.S., replacing a lost or stolen passport requires applying in person using Form DS-11. The speed of replacement depends on your urgency and appointment availability. Expedited services are available for faster processing.
- Schedule an Appointment: Check the State Department’s website for guidance and to schedule an appointment at a passport agency or acceptance facility.
- Expedited Service: If you need your passport quickly, request expedited service, which involves an additional fee but significantly reduces processing time. Check current processing times to understand the estimated turnaround.
- Required Documents: Gather all necessary documents, including proof of U.S. citizenship (e.g., birth certificate), a photocopy of your lost passport (if available), a valid photo ID, and passport photos.
- Payment: Be prepared to pay the application fee and the expedited service fee (if applicable).
Replacing a Lost or Stolen Passport Outside the U.S.
If you are outside the U.S., the process is slightly different. Contact the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate immediately.
- Contact the Embassy or Consulate: Visit the U.S. embassy or consulate website for specific instructions and requirements.
- Emergency Passport: In urgent situations, you may be eligible for a limited-validity emergency passport to allow immediate travel.
- Required Documents: Provide proof of identity, citizenship, and travel itinerary. A police report documenting the loss or theft can also be helpful.
- Fees and Processing Time: Inquire about fees and processing times, which can vary depending on the location and circumstances.
Alt: The U.S. Embassy in London, representing a point of contact for passport replacement services for U.S. citizens abroad.
What to Do If You Find Someone Else’s Lost Passport
If you find a U.S. passport within the United States, mail it to:
U.S. Department of State
Consular Lost and Stolen Passport Unit (CLASP)
44132 Mercure Circle
PO Box 1227
Sterling, VA 20166-1227
If you find a U.S. passport abroad, return it to the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate. For foreign passports found in the U.S., return them to the issuing country’s embassy or consulate.
Key Takeaways for Fast Passport Replacement
- Report Immediately: Report your passport lost or stolen as soon as possible.
- Expedited Services: Utilize expedited services if available and necessary.
- Prepare Documents: Gather all required documents before applying.
- Contact Embassy/Consulate (If Abroad): If outside the U.S., contact the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate for guidance.
By following these steps, you can navigate the process of replacing your lost passport as quickly as possible, minimizing disruption to your travel plans.
