Can you lose your US passport?

Asked by: Fabian Monahan  |  Last update: May 19, 2026
Score: 4.2/5 (47 votes)

Yes, you can lose your U.S. passport, and it's vital to report it as lost or stolen immediately to the State Department to invalidate it and protect against identity theft, which you can do online or by mail, followed by an in-person application process for a replacement passport.

Can you lose your American passport?

If your passport is lost or stolen, report the loss/theft to the local police in the area in which it occurred within 24 hours. In order to replace the passport, it will be necessary for you to appear personally at the Embassy.

Can your U.S. passport be revoked?

The State Department has the sole authority to issue, limit, deny or revoke passports.

What can someone do with my lost passport?

Open fraudulent accounts: Stolen passport numbers help criminals open bank accounts, apply for loans, or get credit cards in your name, leading to financial damage that can take years to fix.

What are the dangers of losing your passport?

Delays and extra costs – Emergency passport processing can take time, require travel to an embassy, and result in missed flights and added hotel bookings. Increased vulnerability – A stolen passport can lead to identity theft or be used for fraud.

Lost Passport Abroad! - What to do - How we got emergency passports

25 related questions found

What is the most common way people get their identity stolen?

How identity theft happens

  • Steal your wallet or purse to get ID, credit, or bank cards.
  • Go through your trash to retrieve bank statements or tax documents.
  • Install skimmers at ATM machines, cash registers, and fuel pumps to digitally steal information from your bank card.

Can I get a new passport if I lose it?

Yes, you can get a new passport if you lost yours, but you must apply in person using Form DS-11, the same form for first-time applicants, and submit it with Form DS-64 (Report of Lost or Stolen Passport), proof of citizenship, a valid ID, a passport photo, and fees, treating the process like a new application because a lost passport can't be renewed. You must report the loss immediately, either online for fast cancellation or by submitting Form DS-64, to prevent misuse, then follow the in-person application steps. 

What do I do if I lost my passport?

If you lose your passport, immediately report it as lost or stolen online or by mail (Form DS-64) to invalidate it, then apply for a replacement in person using Form DS-11, proof of citizenship, ID, photo, and fees, making an appointment at a passport agency if traveling soon (within 3 weeks) or contacting a local embassy/consulate if abroad.
 

Do all passports have a chip?

Believe it or not, there are actually numerous high-tech security features in your passport, including an RFID microchip. RFID microchips have been embedded inside all passports issued since 2007 and securely store your personal information.

What stops a U.S. citizen from getting a passport?

You can't get a U.S. passport if you aren't a citizen, have serious criminal issues (like felony drug charges, outstanding warrants, or being on parole for certain crimes), owe significant back child support ($2,500+), have severe overdue federal taxes, or if you're a minor with insufficient parental consent. Other reasons include failing to provide proper ID, owing money to the State Department, or facing a court order preventing travel.
 

What can void your passport?

Check the expiry date is in line with the rules for the country you're visiting, including before your departure and after your return date. Check for damages - Make sure your passport is not torn, water-damaged, or has any loose or missing pages, as this could make it invalid.

Can you fly if you lost your passport?

You cannot fly internationally without a physical passport, but you can fly domestically within the U.S. with another acceptable ID like a driver's license; if you lose it before an international flight, you must report it lost/stolen to the State Department and apply for an emergency passport through an embassy/consulate or via expedited services, as the airline won't let you board. If you're already abroad, contact the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate for an emergency passport to return home. 

Is it better to report a passport lost or stolen?

1. Report the loss or theft to U.S. authorities. While it can be a good idea to report a stolen passport to the local police — the information you provide will help them if it does turn up — reporting your lost or stolen passport to the U.S. government is also very important.

What are the requirements if you lose your passport?

Additional Requirements

  • Affidavit of Loss or Damage to be executed at the Embassy.
  • Original and photocopy of Birth Certificate issued by PSA (if) Marriage Certificate issued by PSA/NSO (if married and using the LAST NAME of the husband)
  • Photocopy of lost passport.
  • Written police report (denuncia)

How serious is losing a passport?

Yes, losing your passport is very bad and a major hassle, causing significant travel delays, extra costs, and a high risk of identity theft, as it's a crucial document containing personal information like your photo, birth date, and nationality. You'll need to report it lost immediately and apply for an emergency replacement at the nearest embassy or consulate, which can be a lengthy and stressful process, potentially ruining your trip and forcing you to stay put until a replacement arrives. 

How much for a lost passport?

Replacing a lost U.S. passport costs the same as a new application, typically $130 for the book fee plus a $35 execution fee (totaling $165) for adults applying in the U.S., using Form DS-11 and DS-64; expedited service costs an extra $60. If applying abroad, costs vary by country, so check the embassy/consulate website, but expect similar base fees, potentially with local payment methods. 

What happens if I lost my US passport?

To replace a lost or stolen passport, you must submit Form DS-11 in person. If you have already reported your passport lost or stolen, the passport is no longer valid and must not be used for travel. If you attempt to use your reported lost or stolen U.S. passport, you may encounter issues when traveling abroad.

Is it cheaper to renew a passport or just get a new one?

Passport renewal for adults generally costs the same as a new passport book ($130 application fee + $35 execution fee for first-timers), but renewals by mail (Form DS-82) skip the $35 execution fee, making the renewal cost $130, while a new passport book is $165 total; the primary difference is that renewals are simpler (mail-in) if you qualify, avoiding the in-person acceptance agent visit for new applicants (Form DS-11).
 

Can someone else use my lost passport?

Once a passport has been reported lost or stolen, it is no longer valid and should not be used for travel. This is to ensure that it is not used for fraudulent purposes. Attempted use of a passport that was reported lost or stolen may result in difficulties and or delays at ports of entry.

How long does a lost passport take?

Replacing a lost U.S. passport typically takes 4-6 weeks (routine) or 2-3 weeks (expedited with a $60 fee), but can be much faster (days) for urgent travel (within 14 days) by making an appointment at a passport agency for emergency issuance. Processing times start after your application is received, not from when you report it lost. 

How to tell if someone is using your SSN?

To check if someone is using your Social Security number (SSN), review your credit reports at AnnualCreditReport.com, create a My Social Security account at ssa.gov/myaccount to check your earnings, and monitor bank/credit card statements for unfamiliar activity; report any discrepancies immediately to the FTC at IdentityTheft.gov. Look for new accounts, unexpected loans, or different work history on your statements and reports. 

What are three clues that someone has stolen your identity?

Clues That Someone Has Stolen Your Information

  • You see withdrawals from your bank account that you can't explain.
  • You don't get your bills or other mail.
  • Merchants refuse your checks.
  • Debt collectors call you about debts that aren't yours.
  • You find unfamiliar accounts or charges on your credit report.

What is the #1 type of identity theft?

Financial identity (ID) theft is the most common type of identity theft. However, ID theft can happen in many forms. Early detection is key to minimizing damage when your personal information is stolen. There are measures you can take to help better protect yourself and your personal information.