Lost or Stolen U.S. Passport? Here’s Exactly What to Do (2026 Guide)
Losing your U.S. passport—or having it stolen—is a stressful experience. Taking quick, correct action is crucial to protect yourself from identity theft and get a replacement so you can travel again. This step-by-step guide walks you through the official process for 2025, whether you are in the United States or abroad.
Step 1: Report It Immediately
Why this is critical: Reporting your passport lost or stolen invalidates it in the government’s system, preventing anyone else from using it fraudulently.
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How to Report: Complete the Form DS-64 (Statement Regarding a Lost or Stolen Passport).
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Where to Report: You can submit Form DS-64 online at the official State Department website. If you are applying for your replacement at the same time, you will submit this form along with your application.
Important: Once you report a passport lost or stolen, it is permanently invalid and cannot be used for travel, even if you find it later.
Step 2: Gather Your Documents for a Replacement
To get a new passport, you must apply in person using Form DS-11. You cannot renew a lost/stolen passport by mail. Gather these items before you go:
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Completed but UNSIGNED Form DS-11 (You will sign it in front of the agent).
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Proof of U.S. Citizenship: An original or certified copy of your birth certificate, certificate of citizenship, or naturalization certificate.
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Government-Issued Photo ID: A driver’s license, state ID, or military ID. Also bring a photocopy of the front and back.
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One Passport Photo: Must be 2×2 inches, taken within the last 6 months, on a plain white or off-white background.
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Payment: Applicable fees for a new passport book.
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Form DS-64: If you didn’t report the loss online already.
Step 3: Apply In Person at a Passport Acceptance Facility
You must submit your application in person. Common locations include:
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Post Offices
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Public Libraries
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County Clerk’s Offices
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Find a Facility: Use the online tool at the State Department website to find the nearest location. Schedule an appointment if possible to save time.
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At Your Appointment: Present all your documents, provide a signature, and pay the fees.
Step 4: Choose Your Processing Speed
As of late 2025, standard processing times can vary. Choose the service that fits your needs:
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Standard Processing: (e.g., 8-11 weeks) – Regular service.
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Expedited Processing: (e.g., 5-7 weeks) – Costs an extra fee.
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Urgent Travel Appointment: If you have life-or-death emergency travel within the next few days, you can schedule an appointment at a Passport Agency. You will need proof of your travel plans.
Step 5: Track Your Application Status
After you apply, you can check the status of your new passport online using the official State Department passport application status system.
What to Do If You’re Outside the U.S.
If you lose your passport while abroad, the process is different:
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Contact the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate immediately.
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They will help you report the loss and guide you through the process of getting an emergency passport (limited validity) so you can return to the United States.
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Once you are home, you can apply for a full-validity replacement passport.
Essential Tips to Protect Yourself
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Keep a Copy: Always have a photocopy or a secure digital scan of your passport’s photo page stored separately from your passport. This makes replacement much easier.
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File a Police Report: If your passport was stolen, file a report with the local police, especially when abroad. This provides an official record.
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Use Official Websites: Only use websites ending in .gov for passport services to avoid scams.
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Monitor Your Identity: If other IDs were stolen with your passport, consider placing a fraud alert on your credit reports.
Losing a passport is an inconvenience, but by following these official steps, you can navigate the process smoothly, protect your identity, and get back to your plans with minimal stress.
