If you’ve ever misplaced your passport, you know how scary that moment can be. Luckily, getting a replacement passport is much easier than trying to get a brand new one for the first time. Read on to learn from Penn State everything you need to know about how to replace your passport in case it gets lost or stolen.
Check if You Lost Your Passport or if It Was Stolen
First, check if you lost your passport or if it was stolen. If you lost it, you can replace it by following the steps below. If your passport was stolen, you will first have to report it to the police.
You’ll have to include a copy of the police report when you apply for a replacement passport. Otherwise, your application will be rejected. If you’re not in the U.S. when this happens, you will also have to contact the nearest U.S. Embassy is there is such a need.
Get a Police Report
If your passport was stolen, you will have to get a police report before you can replace it. You can do this by going to the police station in the area where you were at the time of the theft. The report should state that your passport was stolen and give the details of the theft. If you are in the U.S. when this happens, go to the local police station and file a stolen passport report.
Renewing Your Passport- Step by Step
If you are abroad and your passport is lost or stolen, you should contact the U.S. Embassy near you to find out the necessary steps. If you are in the U.S., bring the following documents to the local passport office: a completed form DS-11 for the renewal of a passport, or a form DS-82 for a passport card, a police report if your passport was stolen, the passport you’re replacing, if you have it, proof of U.S. citizenship, such as a birth certificate, naturalization certificate or a certificate of citizenship, your expired passport, and 2 extra passport photos with your head facing the camera.
How Long it Takes to Renew a Lost or Damaged Passport
Most people will be able to get a new passport in two to three weeks. However, if you need to renew your passport because you lost it, it will take a bit longer. If you are in the U.S., processing times vary depending on where you apply.
If you are abroad, it could take even longer. If you need to get a new passport quickly, you can use a passport expediting service. These companies can help you get the passport you need in as little as a few days or less. Depending on the service, you may have to pay an extra fee.
Get Your Passports Replaced Instantly!
If you’ve lost your passport, don’t panic, because you can replace it by bringing a completed form DS-11 to the nearest passport office. Make sure you bring documentation that proves you are a U.S. citizen, such as a birth certificate or naturalization certificate. Read Penn State now for more details about passport application and renewal.
