How to Recover a Lost Passport

Assuming that you've retraced your steps and discovered that your passport is gone for good, chances are you need to replace it fast. The process for replacing the passport depends on whether you are in the U.S. or overseas.

Things You'll Need

• DS-11: Application for a U.S. Passport
• Form DS-64: Statement Regarding a Lost or Stolen Passport
• Social Security Number
• Primary Evidence of U.S. Citizenship (one of the following): Previously issued, undamaged U.S. Passport, Certified birth certificate issued by the city, county or state, Consular Report of Birth Abroad or Certification of Birth, Naturalization Certificate, Certificate of Citizenship
• Photocopy of Identification
• Applicable Fees
• Two Passport Size Photos
• Additional Requirements for Applicants Under 17:
• Both parents or guardians with photo identification
• Photocopy of parent/guardian's photo identification
• Evidence of parental relationship: Minor's certified U.S. birth certificate with both parents' names, minor's certified Foreign Birth Certificate with both parents' names, Minor's Report of Birth Abroad with both parents' names, Adoption Decree with adopting parents' names, Court Order establishing custody, Court Order establishing guardianship

Instructions

In the U.S.

1. Report that ur passport is lost or stolen by calling toll free 1-877-487-2778 (TTY 1-888-874-7793).

2. Gather all of the appropriate documents.Photocopies should be on plain white, letter-size standard paper stock, showing the front and the back of your ID.

3. Verify the current fees with the U.S. State Department.

4. Fill out the DS-11 Application and the Form DS-64: Statement Regarding a Lost or Stolen Passport. You will be required to sign these in person, at the Passport Acceptance Facility.

5. Choose a passport acceptance facility with the option of purchasing passport photos to ensure the photos you take are acceptable.

6. Apply in person at an approved Passport Acceptance Facility. The U.S. Department of State has a search engine online to assist in locating a Passport Acceptance Facility.

Overseas

1. Report your passport lost or stolen toll free at 1-877-487-2778 (TTY 1-888-874-7793) or at the nearest consulate or embassy.

2. Gather the required information to report to the U.S. consulate or embassy. This includes personal data such as your date and place of birth, social security number, passport number (if available) and any documents or cards that can assist in proving your identity, and contact information from family and friends who can vouch for your identity in the United States. Have them call Overseas Citizens Services at [phone].

3. Visit the nearest consulate or embassy and be prepared to be interviewed, provide all available documentation and to file an affidavit concerning the circumstances under which your passport was lost.

References

• US Department of State