Lost Passport: Replace It Without Cancelling Your Trip
Lost your passport? Here's exactly how to report it with DS-64, apply for a replacement with DS-11, and get a new one fast — even if you travel soon.
TL;DR
A lost passport is not the end of your trip. File a DS-64 to report it (which immediately cancels the old one), then apply for a new passport via DS-11 in person. If you travel within 14 days, you can get an emergency appointment at a regional passport agency and have a new passport within days.
At a glance
- First step: file DS-64 immediately — this cancels the lost passport
- Application form: DS-11 (in person only — DS-82 mail-in is not available)
- Cost: ~$130 book fee + $35 execution fee; add $60 for expedited service
- Timeline: 6–8 weeks routine, 2–3 weeks expedited, days at a passport agency (urgent travel)
- Required docs: DS-64, DS-11, proof of citizenship, photo ID, 2 passport photos
Why this matters
Losing a passport feels catastrophic — especially if you have a flight booked. But the State Department processes thousands of lost-passport cases every year, and the steps are straightforward once you know them. The biggest risk isn’t the paperwork. It’s waiting too long to report the loss. An unreported lost passport can be used by someone else to travel under your name or commit identity fraud.
Report it first. Then replace it.
Step 1: Report the loss with DS-64
Form DS-64 is the State Department’s official “Statement Regarding a Lost or Stolen Passport.” You can complete it online at travel.state.gov or download it and bring it in when you apply.
Filing DS-64 does two things at once:
- It immediately invalidates the lost passport. No grace period. Even if you find the passport under the couch cushion next week, it cannot be used again.
- It removes the passport from circulation in international databases, which alerts border officials worldwide that the document should not be accepted.
You do not need to have the physical passport to file DS-64. You’ll need the passport number if you remember it, but the form can be submitted without it.
When it was stolen vs. when it was lost
The State Department treats lost and stolen passports the same way for DS-64 purposes. The form has checkboxes for both situations.
If your passport was stolen, filing a police report is optional but smart. It creates documentation that you did not voluntarily give up the passport — which can protect you if someone later uses it for identity fraud. Keep a copy of the police report with your other travel documents.
Step 2: Apply for a replacement with DS-11
Because your lost passport is now invalid, you cannot renew by mail using DS-82. You must apply as if it’s a new application using DS-11, and you must appear in person.
Documents you’ll need:
- DS-64 (the loss report you just filed)
- Completed DS-11 (new passport application)
- Proof of U.S. citizenship: a certified birth certificate or certificate of naturalization. A photocopy doesn’t work — it must be a certified original with a raised seal or color seal.
- Government-issued photo ID: a valid driver’s license, REAL ID, or military ID. If your ID was also lost or stolen, contact the State Department’s National Passport Information Center for guidance.
- Two passport photos: standard size (2” x 2”), taken within the last six months, plain white or off-white background. Many post offices and pharmacies can take them on the spot.
You’ll submit DS-64 at the same time as your DS-11 application. The acceptance facility agent will attach it to your application.
Step 3: Apply in person — routine vs. urgent
Routine replacement (no travel in the next 8 weeks)
Visit any passport acceptance facility — most post offices, some libraries, and county clerks of court. No appointment needed at most facilities, though some require one. Processing takes 6–8 weeks routine, or 2–3 weeks with the $60 expedite fee.
You can apply for your replacement passport at egovrush and have a concierge walk you through the entire process, including photo review and document checklist before you head to the facility.
Urgent replacement (travel within 14 days, or visa needed within 28 days)
You need an appointment at one of the 26 regional passport agencies. These are different from acceptance facilities — they’re federal offices staffed by State Department employees, and they can produce passports in 1–3 business days.
Appointments at passport agencies are in high demand. Book through the State Department’s official appointment portal as early as possible — slots at busy agencies often release and disappear within minutes.
If you’re flying within 72 hours, the appointment system typically routes you to life-or-death emergency processing, which can get you a passport the same day or next day.
If you’re traveling and are currently abroad
If you’ve lost your passport while traveling outside the United States, the process is different. Contact the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate. They can issue an emergency passport — typically valid for one year and limited to a small number of pages — for the cost of a standard application fee. Locate your nearest U.S. Embassy at usembassy.gov.
Identity fraud risk: what to watch for
A lost or stolen passport can be sold or used for identity fraud. After reporting it lost:
- Monitor your credit report for new accounts opened in your name
- Watch for any unexpected notices from government agencies
- If you suspect active fraud, consider contacting the Federal Trade Commission at ftc.gov
The DS-64 filing itself goes a long way: it flags the passport in international law-enforcement databases and makes it useless as a travel document. But it doesn’t prevent someone from using your personal information that may have been copied from the document.
Common pitfalls
- Using DS-82 for a lost passport. DS-82 is for renewals by mail. You cannot use it when your previous passport has been reported lost. You will be rejected.
- Assuming you can reactivate a found passport. Once DS-64 is filed, the passport is permanently cancelled. Finding it does not un-cancel it.
- Forgetting to bring proof of citizenship. Acceptance facility agents cannot accept photocopies. If your birth certificate is also lost, order a replacement from your state vital records office before your passport appointment.
- Waiting to report the loss. Every day the passport is unreported is a day someone could potentially use it. Report immediately, even if you’re not sure it’s really gone.
- Not bringing enough photos. Some agencies will ask for a second set. Have extras printed.
What to do next
Report the loss with DS-64 right now — don’t wait. Then start gathering your DS-11 documents. If your trip is within two weeks, check the State Department’s appointment portal immediately and book the earliest slot at the nearest passport agency.
If you’d rather not manage the paperwork alone, egovrush handles passport replacements end to end — document checklist, photo review, and application coordination so nothing slips through the cracks.
Sources: Lost or Stolen Passports — travel.state.gov, Passport Agencies and Acceptance Facilities — travel.state.gov. Fees verified April 2026.
Frequently asked questions
Can I reactivate a passport I reported lost?
No. Filing DS-64 permanently invalidates the passport. There is no reversal process. You must apply for a completely new passport using DS-11.
Do I need to file a police report for a stolen passport?
A police report is optional. It’s not required by the State Department but creates a useful paper trail if the passport is later used for fraud.
How long does an emergency passport take at a passport agency?
Typically 1–3 business days for documented urgent travel. For life-or-death emergencies or travel within 72 hours, same-day issuance is possible with a confirmed appointment.
What if I find my old passport after reporting it lost?
Do not use it. A reported-lost passport is permanently cancelled in State Department records and will flag in any border or airline check. Destroy it or mail it to the State Department.
Can I get a passport at a passport agency without an appointment?
No. All 26 U.S. passport agencies require a confirmed appointment. Walk-ins are not permitted.
What documents do I need to replace a lost passport?
DS-64 (loss report), DS-11 (new application), certified proof of citizenship, a valid government-issued photo ID, and two recent passport photos.
Need help with your passport application?
We handle the form, photo check, and tracking. Pay only after eligibility is confirmed.
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