Lost Passport – How to Replace a Lost U.S. Passport [2019]

 

Losing your passport can be terrifying, but don’t panic. With this How to guide on replacing your lost passport, we would document the steps needed to replace your passport. If your United States passport has been lost, act quickly to remedy the problem. Report the incident immediately to prevent someone else from using your passport and to protect yourself against identity theft. Read on to learn how to report your lost passport to the proper authorities, and how to replace it.




How to Report Your Passport as Lost

Passports are commonly misplaced, often due to infrequent use. However, it’s crucial to report the lost immediately.

To report a lost passport:

  • Contact the U.S. Department of State at (877) 487-2778.
    OR
  • Complete Form DS-64 – Statement Regarding a Lost or Stolen U.S. Passport Book and/or Card. Print, sign, and mail to the address indicated on the form.
    OR
  • Submit Form DS-64 online electronically. In the secure portal, hover the mouse over the “Report Lost or Stolen” section and click “Submit”.

Note: Once your passport has been reported lost, it is deemed invalid. A lost passport cannot be reused if it becomes found.

Replace Your Lost Passport

If your passport has been lost, you can replace it in a matter of days or weeks. Regular processing takes 4 to 6 weeks. If you require a passport quickly due to an emergency, a Fastport Passport can be obtained in as little as one day. Actions needed to replace your passport will primarily depend on if you’re in the U.S. or abroad, and if you have international travel plans in the near future.

If you are currently in the United States and plan to travel abroad in 2 weeks or less, you will need to:

  • Schedule an appointment to apply for a new passport in person at a Passport Center or Agency. Expedited passports typically arrive in 8 business days or less.
  • Complete Form DS-64 – Statement Regarding a Lost or Stolen U.S. Passport Book and/or Form.
  • Complete Form DS-11 – Application for a U.S. Passport.
  • Provide proof of identity and U.S. citizenship.
  • Bring a recent, color photograph that meets passport photo requirements.
  • Pay applicable fees.

If you are currently in the United States and have no immediate travel plans, you will need to go to a passport center (e.g. post office), and do the following:

If you are not currently in the United States and your passport is lost, you will need to contact a U.S. Embassy to assist you with obtaining a replacement passport.

How Long to Replace a Lost U.S. Passport

Standard passport processing time for a lost passport is about 6 weeks you can also request an expedited service with the post offices which cost about $60.00 you would be able to get your passport back in 2 to 3 weeks. If you wish to expedite your lost passport with a passport expediting company these companies such as National Passport Service would be able to get your passport back in as little as 24 hours processing time.