There are several ways that you can go about replacing a lost United States passport. The application can be done online or in person. You can also download the DS-11 form and mail it in with the required supporting documents. The quickest and easiest way is to make use of an expediting company.

Report Loss

The first step is always to report the lost US passport so that it can be cancelled. You can also just download and include a DS-64 form with your application. Even if you do find it, it can’t be validated again and should be returned to the Department of State.

If In A Foreign Country

If you happen to be traveling at the time, you should contact the local US embassy or consulate. Because all passports are printed in America and then posted abroad, they will not be able to expedite the process. If you are not able to wait, they will be able to issue you with a temporary passport.

Expediting

If you are abroad, you can apply with an expediting company if you want to get a full passport in a hurry. Some of these companies allow you to do this through their website. If you want to apply directly to the Department of State from abroad the same forms and documents are still required but the admission process is different. Check with your consulate or embassy to see what the correct procedure would be in that country.

Replacement In The U.S.

If you are in the US, it is possible to have your application expedited. You can either mail in the application, which should be done on a DS-82 form, or you can submit it at a Post Office, passport agency or other official location. Routine applications should take 4-6 weeks and expedited applications 2-3 weeks if overnight delivery is arranged for sending and receiving.

24-Hour Service

An expediting company can ensure much faster delivery and you could get your passport within 24 hours if you have pre-booked a flight. There will normally be a range of options that you can choose from. These will range from a day to a couple of weeks.

Documents

There are certain original damaged US passport documents that are required regardless of how you choose to apply. They will be returned to you and have to be accompanied by copies. If they are going to be posted then you should use tracking and protective envelopes. If they are going to the Department of State, you should clearly mark on the envelope if they are to be expedited.