Losing a passport right before an international trip generates panic,
in even the most seasoned traveler. According to the US Department of
State, a stolen or lost U S online passport should be reported
immediately to prevent identity theft. If a replacement is needed
quickly, travelers may take certain steps to get their new document to
ensure that their travel plans will not be interrupted.
Form DS-64
People should start by filling out Form DS-64. The form has spaces
for personal information, the card and book numbers for old passports
and a paragraph explaining where, when and how the documents were lost.
People must also explain any actions they took in an attempt to recover
their passports. The form may be mailed to the State department, if
travelers are not immediately seeking new documentation and the address
is available on the State Department website.
Form DS-11
Applicants for new passports should submit Form DS-11 and pay the
processing fee. Applicants should complete Form DS-11 but should wait to
sign it until in the company of their acceptance agent. In addition to
the proper forms, applicants will have to prove US citizenship by
bringing identification. Acceptable identification may include a
driver's license, a naturalization certificate, a military ID or a
government ID. Agencies may also accept secondary forms of signature ID
such as employee ID cards, social security cards and letters from an
identifying witness.
Photocopies Of ID
Applicants must photocopy their identifying documentation. The
photocopy should have images of both the back and front of identifying
documents and should be printed on white 8 1/2 by 11 inch paper. Images
may be increased in size but may not be decreased in size. Also, images
may only appear on one side of the page and the page must be clear of
other markings or images.
Photograph
The State Department mandates a photograph for replacement passports. Each photograph must depict the applicant's current appearance and must adhere to stringent State Department guidelines. Most applicants utilize a professional photo service to ensure compliance.
The State Department mandates a photograph for replacement passports. Each photograph must depict the applicant's current appearance and must adhere to stringent State Department guidelines. Most applicants utilize a professional photo service to ensure compliance.
In Person Or Online?
Applicants replacing lost or stolen passports must apply in person.
If scheduled to travel within two weeks, people may set appointments
with a regional passport office. Appointments are made using an
automated process after which applicants are given an office address,
appointment time and confirmation number. Applicants should bring all
documentation, including a copy of their travel itinerary or e-ticket
and should expect to pay the regular fee plus an additional rush fee.
Expedited Services
Travelers may find help with their expedited new US passport
replacement from a private expediter. Before choosing a service,
applicants should ensure that the company has a good reputation by
checking to see if customers have left positive or negative comments
online. Also, applicants should call the telephone number of the service
to verify that it is a working number.
