Replace a Damaged U.S. Passport
If your U.S. passport is damaged beyond normal wear and tear, you generally need to replace it in person using Form DS-11. US Passport Assist helps you prepare the application and supporting package before your acceptance-facility visit.
Normal wear (a bent cover, faded edges) usually still qualifies for mail renewal — our eligibility check sorts this honestly.
Government fees$130 government application fee, paid to the U.S. Department of State, plus a separate $35 acceptance fee paid directly to the acceptance facility (accepted payment methods vary by location). Optional expedited service adds the State Department's $60 expedite fee plus $26.87 for 1–3 day return delivery of a passport book ($86.87 together).
When Does a Passport Need to Be Replaced?
Passport damage may include:
- Water damage, including stains or mold
- Significant tears
- Unofficial markings on the personal-information page
- Missing or torn visa pages
- A hole punch or other major damage
Normal wear, such as small bends, pages fanning out from use, or slightly frayed edges, does not require passport replacement. A damaged passport should be replaced before you travel.
What Do You Need to Apply?
You will generally need:
- Your damaged passport and a signed statement explaining the damage
- Proof of U.S. citizenship — your damaged passport alone may not be accepted as citizenship evidence
- A government-issued photo ID
- One printed passport photo that meets government requirements
- Applicable government fees
US Passport Assist will explain which documents and copies are required, guide you through the damage statement, and help you prepare your DS-11 application package. Additional requirements apply to applicants under age 18.
How Does the Application Process Work?
- Provide Your Information
Complete the online application and provide the information needed to prepare your damaged passport replacement package.
- We Prepare and Review Your Application
US Passport Assist prepares Form DS-11, reviews your information and passport photo, and provides a personalized document checklist.
- Receive Your Application Package
We mail the prepared application package to you with the required form, personalized checklist, and clear instructions for your acceptance-facility visit.
- Visit a Passport Acceptance Facility
Bring your prepared package, damaged passport, and required supporting documents to an authorized passport acceptance facility. Do not sign the application until instructed by the acceptance agent.
- Submit and Track Your Application
Pay the applicable government fees and submit your application through the acceptance facility. After submission, you can follow the progress of your passport application.
US Passport Assist helps you prepare your replacement application, organize the required documents, and understand each step before your in-person visit.
Common questions
How damaged is too damaged for a passport?
Water damage, significant tears, missing or unreadable pages, a hole punch, or a separating cover all count as damage requiring in-person replacement. Normal wear from carrying and stamping does not — if you’re unsure, our intake asks the exact State Department questions and routes you honestly.
More answers in the FAQ hub.