Do I Need A Police Report For Lost Passport? Steps to Know
Losing your passport can be very stressful. It’s important to act fast to avoid identity theft and keep your travel plans on track. A police report isn’t legally needed for a lost or stolen passport. But, it can help a lot in getting a new one.
Immediate Actions After Discovering a Lost Passport
If you find out your passport is missing, act fast. First, report it to your local police. Give them any copies of important documents like your birth certificate or driver’s license. This helps them start looking for your passport.
Filing an Official Report with Local Authorities
Go to the police department where you last had your passport. Tell them it’s missing or stolen. This report is key to getting a new passport.
Gathering Essential Documentation
- Certified copy of your birth certificate
- Government-issued photo ID (e.g., driver’s license)
- Any other identification documents you have
Having these documents ready will speed up the process of getting a new passport. You’ll need them when you contact the U.S. State Department.
Contact Information for Emergency Services
If you’re abroad and your passport is lost or stolen, call the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate right away. They can help with emergency services and getting a new passport. This might include an emergency passport to help you travel quickly.
| Statistic | Value |
|---|---|
| Waiting period for replacement passport when lost abroad | Up to 8 weeks |
| Possibility of obtaining limited-validity emergency passport | Quickly, at times on the same day |
| Regular passport replacement cost | Approximately $130 |
| Assistance services offered by credit card and insurance companies | Helping in changing travel arrangements and covering costs |
| State Department emergency financial assistance for U.S. citizens abroad | For passport replacements |
Do I Need A Police Report For Lost Passport
It is not always necessary to obtain a police report for a lost or stolen passport. But, it can be helpful in some cases. The U.S. Department of State doesn’t ask for a police report to replace a lost passport. Yet, having one can confirm what happened and help with identity theft issues.
For U.S. citizens abroad, local police in the country where the passport was lost or stolen can make an official report. This report is useful when you apply for a new passport with the U.S. Department of State.
Even if you might worry about travel delays, it’s wise to report the loss or theft to the police. This is more important if your passport was stolen. Reporting it helps make a record and can stop someone else from using your passport. This is a key passport security measure.
| Reporting a Lost or Stolen Passport | Time Estimates |
|---|---|
| Public reporting burden for reporting a lost or stolen U.S. passport | Estimated to average 5 minutes per response |
| Estimated collection burden for gathering data, providing information/documents, and reviewing the final collection | Around 5 minutes |
| OMB Control No. for the U.S. Department of State’s form regarding a lost or stolen U.S. passport book and/or card | 1405-0014 |
| OMB Expiration Date for the aforementioned form | 11-30-2021 |
Steps to Report Your Passport to the State Department
If your passport is lost or stolen, the first thing to do is report it to the U.S. Department of State. The State Department offers three ways to do this: online, by mail, or in person. Each method has its own steps to make sure your new passport is issued quickly and safely.
Online Reporting Methods
The easiest way to report a lost or stolen passport is online. The State Department has a form filler tool on their website. It helps you fill out Form DS-64, the official report for lost or stolen passports. After you submit it, the State Department will cancel your old passport to protect your identity.
Mail-in Report Options
You can also report your passport by mail. Just download and print Form DS-64 from the State Department’s website. Fill it out, sign it, and send it to the address listed. Reporting by mail might take longer than online.
In-Person Reporting Procedures
If you prefer to report in person, you can visit a local Passport Agency or Acceptance Facility. You can also go to a U.S. embassy or consulate abroad. You’ll need to bring both Form DS-64 and Form DS-11, the Application for a U.S. Passport. The online form filler can help you with both forms if you’re applying for a new passport.
Required Forms for Passport Replacement
To replace a lost or stolen passport, you need to fill out specific forms. You’ll need Form DS-64 to report the loss or theft. Then, you’ll need Form DS-11 to apply for a new passport. You must submit these forms in person when you apply.
The Department of State offers an online form filler to help. This tool can save you time and reduce mistakes. You’ll also need to provide documents like proof of citizenship and identity.
| Form | Purpose |
|---|---|
| DS-64 | Report loss or theft of a U.S. passport |
| DS-11 | Application for a new U.S. passport |
In 2019, about 186,000 U.S. passports were reported lost or stolen. Replacing a passport abroad can cost between $110 to $165. In the U.S., it takes 4 – 6 weeks to get a new passport. Expedited service takes about 2 – 3 weeks.
Children under 18 must apply in person using Form DS-11. They can’t renew by mail. Also, if you’ve changed your name, you’ll need to fill out Form DS-5504 and provide certified documents of the name change within a year of getting your passport.
Emergency Passport Options for Urgent Travel
When you face a sudden travel emergency, getting a passport fast is key. Luckily, the U.S. Department of State has several ways to speed up the passport application. This is for those who need to travel urgently.
Limited-Validity Passport Solutions
If you can’t get a regular passport in time, a limited-validity emergency passport is an option. It’s good for up to a year and can be gotten at U.S. embassies and consulates. Getting an emergency passport at the U.S. Embassy usually takes 1-2 business days.
The cost is $135 for kids and $165 for adults. This is a fast way to get a passport when you’re in a hurry.
Expedited Processing Services
For those in the U.S., the Department of State offers expedited passport services. By paying extra, you can get your passport in 5-7 weeks instead of the usual 8-11 weeks. This is great for those with tight travel schedules.
Whether your passport is lost, stolen, or you just need a new one fast, the U.S. government has your back. They offer emergency passport issuance and urgent travel solutions. Knowing your options and following the right steps can make getting a passport smooth, even in emergencies.
Lost Passport Procedures When Abroad
If your passport is lost or stolen while traveling, act fast. First, contact the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate immediately. They will help with consular assistance for lost passports and explain the travel document requirements for a new one.
To get a new passport, you must visit the embassy in person. Take any documents you have, like a police report, proof of U.S. citizenship, and ID. If it’s an emergency, the embassy might give you a temporary passport to get back to the U.S.
Keep in mind, U.S. embassies and consulates don’t issue passports on weekends or holidays. But, they have after-hours duty officers for emergencies. So, don’t wait if you’re in a hurry.
| Location | Emergency Passport Processing Time | Fees |
|---|---|---|
| Rome | Same day before 12:00 pm | €6 for passport photos |
| Venice, Palermo, Genoa | No emergency passport services | N/A |
| Milan | Same day before 12:00 pm | €5 for passport photos |
Once a U.S. passport is reported lost or stolen, it’s canceled. No more travel with that passport. Stay alert and act fast to fix your lost passport issue abroad smoothly.
Identity Verification Requirements for Replacement
Replacing a lost or stolen U.S. passport requires verifying the applicant’s identity. This step is key to keeping the passport system safe and reliable. The U.S. Department of State has clear rules and documents needed to confirm who you are.
Acceptable Documentation List
Valid driver’s licenses, government IDs, or military IDs are the main IDs accepted. These documents prove your identity and make you eligible for a new passport.
Secondary Identification Options
- Social security card
- Credit or debit card
- Employee ID
If you don’t have these IDs, the agency might accept other documents. Or, you might need someone who knows you well to fill out Form DS-71 and come with you.
Reporting a lost or stolen U.S. passport takes about five minutes on average. It has an OMB Control Number of 1405-0014. You must report any lost or stolen passport books or cards. Once reported, your passport is canceled and can’t be used for travel.
Passport Replacement Fees and Processing Times
Losing your passport can be stressful. But knowing the replacement process and fees can make it easier. The cost to replace a passport is about $130, not including extra fees for fast service.
If you need a passport fast, the U.S. Department of State has an expedited service. It costs an extra $60. This can cut the wait time from 8-11 weeks to 5-7 weeks.
In emergencies, some passport agencies can issue a new passport in 24 hours. But, you must show proof of urgent travel plans to get this service.
When paying for a new passport, you can use a check, money order, or credit card. There are extra fees for both the U.S. Department of State and local services, like the City of Houston. They charge an extra $35 per applicant.
Applicants need a recent passport photo, taken in the last 6 months. Minors must have all legal guardians present or a consent form (DS-3053).
Getting a new passport can seem hard. But with the right info and preparation, it can be smooth and quick. This way, you can get your travel documents back fast.
Security Measures After Reporting a Lost Passport
After you report your passport lost or stolen, it’s key to take extra steps to protect yourself. Start by watching your credit reports for any odd activity. This could mean someone is trying to steal your identity. You might want to put a fraud alert on your credit file. This alerts creditors to check your identity before giving you new credit.
Your reported passport is not good for traveling abroad, even if you find it later. If you do find your passport, you can’t use it anymore. You’ll need to get a new one. These steps help protect you from someone using your lost or stolen passport.
It’s important to keep an eye on your personal info and money after losing a passport. By being careful, you can lower the chance of identity theft. This makes the process of getting a new passport easier and safer for you.
Common Queries
Do I need a police report for a lost passport?
A police report is not required but can be useful. It helps confirm how your passport was lost or stolen. The U.S. Department of State suggests reporting a lost passport right away.
What are the immediate actions I should take after discovering a lost passport?
First, file a police report. If you have original documents, provide copies. You’ll also need a certified birth certificate, driver’s license, and other IDs.
For those abroad, contact the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate for help.
Do I need a police report to replace a lost passport?
A police report is not needed but can be helpful. It proves the loss or theft. For those abroad, local authorities might give a report.
How do I report a lost or stolen passport to the State Department?
You can report it online, by mail, or in person. The online tool helps fill out the necessary forms.
What forms do I need to replace a lost or stolen passport?
You need Form DS-64 to report the loss and Form DS-11 for a new passport. Both are required for in-person applications.
What are the emergency passport options for urgent travel needs?
The Department of State offers emergency passports valid for up to a year. These can be issued at U.S. embassies and consulates abroad. For domestic needs, expedited services are available for a fee.
What should I do if I lose my passport while abroad?
Immediately contact the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate. You’ll need to apply for a new passport in person. They might issue an emergency passport if needed.
What documents do I need to verify my identity when replacing a lost passport?
You can use a valid driver’s license, government ID, or military ID. If not available, other documents like a social security card or credit card might work. If these are not possible, the agency may accept other IDs or require a witness.
What are the replacement passport fees and processing times?
As of 2024, adult passport books cost $130 plus a $35 execution fee. Expedited service adds $60. Routine service takes 6-8 weeks, while expedited service takes 2-3 weeks.
What security measures should I take after reporting a lost or stolen passport?
Keep an eye on your credit reports for any odd activity. Consider a fraud alert on your credit file. Remember, your reported passport is invalid for travel, even if found later.
