What should you do first if you lose your passport?
First, report the passport lost or stolen so no one can use it, then arrange a replacement. For US citizens abroad, that means contacting the nearest US embassy or consulate, which can issue an emergency or replacement passport. If it was stolen, file a police report too. At home, you report the loss and apply for a new passport through the State Department.
If you lose your passport abroad (US citizens)
- Search thoroughly and retrace your steps — check your hotel, the last places you visited and your transport provider.
- File a police report if it was stolen, and keep a copy. Some embassies and insurers ask for it.
- Contact the nearest US embassy or consulate. Tell them your travel dates; they'll explain how to apply and whether you can get a passport quickly.
- Bring what you can: a passport photo, ID such as a driver's license, a copy of the lost passport, proof of travel plans and the police report.
- Fill out the forms: Form DS-64 reports the passport lost or stolen, and Form DS-11 applies for a new one.
- Get your emergency passport. If you need to travel soon, the embassy may issue a limited-validity passport that you later replace with a full one.
- Fix your visas and entry stamps. If the lost passport had a visa, contact the issuing country's authorities; you may also need an exit permit in some countries.
If you lose your passport at home
Report it lost or stolen with Form DS-64 and apply for a new one with Form DS-11 in person. If you have travel coming up soon, ask about expedited service or an appointment at a passport agency. Details and current fees are on travel.state.gov.
Once reported lost, a passport is invalid, even if you find it later.
FAQ
Should I contact the police if I lose my passport?
If it was stolen, yes. Even for a simple loss, a police report can help with the embassy, your insurer and proving you didn't misuse it.
How long does it take to replace a lost passport?
An emergency passport abroad can sometimes be issued in a day or a few days. A regular replacement at home takes weeks unless you pay for expedited service.
Is it better to say a passport was lost or stolen?
Tell the truth. The forms ask about the circumstances, and false statements on passport applications are a federal offense.
What documents do I need to replace a lost passport?
Proof of citizenship, ID, a passport photo, Form DS-64 and Form DS-11, plus the fees. Abroad, also bring proof of travel and any police report.
What are the risks of losing a passport?
Missed travel and identity theft. Reporting it quickly invalidates it so others can't use it.