A lost US passport is a bummer, especially if you have plans to travel or if you are already out of the country. Luckily, it is easy to replace. Once you report it missing and it has been cancelled by the authorities, the process is irreversible and you cannot reactivate it. Make sure it really is gone before you notify the authorities.
Inform The US State Department
The first step is to inform the US State Department in Washington if the item has been lost within the United States. If you are overseas, notify the nearest US Embassy or Consulate. This should be done immediately so that it may be inactivated to prevent its being used illegally by someone else.
Form DS-64
The loss may be reported either by making a brief telephone call or by completing, signing and submitting a special form called a DS-64. This form is available over the Internet from the website of the American State Department. If you happen to find someone else’s US passport, this should be mailed in a sturdy envelope to the US Department of State in Washington.
If You Find It
If your missing passport turns up after you have reported that it has been either lost or stolen, send it to the State Department. If you wish, they will cancel it and return it to you. Otherwise, they will destroy it.
Replacement
The next thing you need to do is request a replacement. If you are within the USA, you can apply in person either at a Passport Agency or at an Acceptance Facility. There are a couple dozen or so Passport Agencies throughout the country and a greater number of Acceptance Facilities. This can be a post office, a library, clerk or the court or other type of government office.
Form DS-11
The application form is called a DS-11. You will also need to bring your DS-64, proof of United States citizenship, two photographs and proof of identity. There will also be a fee. The specifications for the pictures are very exact so make sure you mention to the photographer why you are having them made.
Expedited Services
Getting a replacement if you are in a hurry to leave the country or if you are already overseas is reasonably easy. There are a lot of private agencies that are prepared to take this on board for you. They offer several levels of service, depending on how quickly the replacement is required. The sooner you need it, the higher the fee.
Whether you need to replace a lost United States passport within a one or two weeks or a couple of days, the procedure for securing a new one is essentially the same. As well as submitting the expedited new U.S. passport documents required for a non-urgent replacement, you will need to provide evidence of when you are planning to travel. Most levels of expedited service are available over the Internet. If you require same-day service, this too is available. It just takes a phone call.
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