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Reviewed July 31, 2026

Replace a damaged U.S. passport

Apply in person with Form DS-11 when damage goes beyond normal wear and may affect travel or document security.

Direct answer

If a valid U.S. passport has damage beyond normal wear, apply in person for a new passport with Form DS-11. Submit the damaged passport and a signed statement explaining the damage.

When this process applies

Use this route when you still have the passport but it has water damage, mold, stains, significant tears, unofficial markings, missing pages, or another condition that may interfere with travel or document security. Normal wear, such as folded pages or a small bend, does not by itself require replacement.

What to prepare

  • Form DS-11, completed but not signed until the acceptance agent instructs you.
  • The damaged passport book or card.
  • A signed statement describing how the passport was damaged.
  • Current citizenship evidence, photo identification, and the required photocopies for a DS-11 application.
  • One compliant passport photo.
  • The current application and execution fees, using payment methods accepted by the filing location.

Steps

  1. Confirm that the problem is damage rather than normal wear or a lost or stolen passport.
  2. Complete Form DS-11 and use the official fee and form guide to verify the current requirements.
  3. Locate an authorized passport acceptance facility. Check whether the location requires an appointment.
  4. Bring the damaged passport, signed statement, supporting documents, photo, photocopies, and payments.
  5. Sign Form DS-11 only when the acceptance agent tells you to sign it.
  6. Keep the receipt and track the application after it enters the Department of State system.

Important distinctions

  • Lost or stolen: use the reporting process because the passport must be canceled.
  • Damaged after a major disaster: a separate disaster replacement route may apply, including a possible fee waiver.
  • Outside the United States: contact the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate for instructions.

Fees and processing

Passport fees and service options can change. Use the Department of State fee calculator and current processing-time page before filing. A passport agency appointment is generally reserved for qualifying urgent travel and is not guaranteed.

Official sources

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