Having your passport stolen is a terrible experience. It’s even worse when you consider the time, effort, and money needed to replace it. What’s more, a passport contains valuable personal information that could be used to steal your identity if you don’t act quickly.
Replacing a stolen passport is similar to getting a new passport but with the added step of reporting the theft. Understand that you can’t renew a stolen passport, even if it had validity remaining, as it is impossible to renew a passport without physically submitting your previous one.
The steps outlined in the next section will help you navigate the process of replacing your stolen passport as smoothly and quickly as possible.
Please note: If you are abroad, stolen passports are usually replaced the same day with an emergency, limited-validity passport. If you are In the United States, standard passports are issued. The replacement processing time is now 4 to 6 weeks for routine service and 2 to 3 weeks for expedited service.
If you need your passport replaced faster, you can visit a Regional Processing Center to obtain your passport in up to 10 days or use a registered expediter service, which can replace a passport in 24-48 hours.
Steps to Replace a Stolen Passport in the United States
Each year, hundreds of thousands of passports are reported stolen in the United States. If your passport is among them, it’s crucial to take immediate action—not just to get it replaced, but to safeguard yourself against potential identity theft.
Here’s what you need to do to report and replace your stolen passport quickly and effectively:
Step 1: Report Theft of the Passport
The first step in replacing a stolen passport is to visit the nearest police station and file a report.
Then, report the theft of your travel document to the U.S. Department of State Passport Services by completing the Statement Regarding Lost or Stolen Passport, Form DS-64. This form can be completed:
- Online,
- By phone: National Passport Information Center’s toll-free number at 1-877-487-2778, or
- By mail:
U.S. Department of State
Passport Services
Consular Lost/Stolen Passport Section
1111 19th Street, NW, Suite 500
Washington, DC 20036
In your report, be as detailed as possible about the circumstances of the theft and provide all the information requested regarding your stolen passport.
Step 2: Complete Form DS-11: Application for a New U.S. Passport
Under normal circumstances, American citizens can renew their passports by mail if they submit their most recently issued passports. However, if your passport was stolen, you will need to apply for a new passport using Form DS-11.
You can complete Form DS-11 online or download the form to print and fill out manually; make sure to use black ink and write legibly. The form suggests an estimated completion time of 85 minutes, though it typically takes less time. Do not sign the form until instructed by an acceptance agent.
Step 3: Gather Supporting Documents
After you have completed Form DS-11, you will need to gather the following supporting documents with your application:
- Proof of U.S. citizenship (original or certified copy)
- Proof of Identity
- A photocopy of the identification document (front and back) on 8 ½” x 11″ white paper
- One (1) recent passport photo (2″ x 2″, taken within the last 6 months)
All documents must meet U.S. Department of State Passport Services requirements. Originals and certified copies of all supporting documents will be returned to you.
Step 4: Visit an Application Acceptance Facility
Once your documents are ready, submit your application in person at an authorized passport acceptance facility, such as a post office, federal or state court clerk’s office, or municipal government office. Be sure to call ahead to confirm the facility’s hours and make an appointment, if necessary.
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When you arrive, acceptance agents will collect the execution fee, while the passport application fee is sent along with your documents. You can choose between standard service (4 to 6 weeks) or expedited service (2 to 3 weeks) for an additional fee.
If you need your replacement passport urgently, you can either visit a Regional Processing Center or work with a registered expediter service, which can replace your passport in 24-48 hours.
Important Notes about Stolen Passports
- Once a stolen passport is reported, it is invalidated and can no longer be used for travel.
- The details entered on Form DS-64 are logged in the Consular Lost/Stolen Passport System.
- If you recover the passport after reporting it as stolen, send it to:
U.S. Department of State
Passport Services
Consular Lost/Stolen Passport Section
1111 19th Street, NW, Suite 500
Washington, DC 20036
You can choose to have the passport canceled and returned to you or destroyed. Please note: It cannot be re-validated for travel.
Replacing a Stolen Passport Abroad
If your passport is stolen abroad, you must report the theft at the nearest police station as soon as possible. Then take the police report to the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate. While most embassies and consulates require appointments for passport services, they do provide quick responses for emergency travel needs.
For more information, visit the website of the U.S. Embassy or Consulate where you are located.
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Having your passport stolen can be a stressful experience, but acting quickly will help you get a replacement and protect yourself from potential identity theft. Whether you’re in the U.S. or abroad, following the outlined steps will ensure a smooth process. For urgent situations, consider expedited services to get back on track with your travel plans. Stay informed, stay safe, and take the necessary precautions to protect your identity while awaiting your new passport.
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