Can I travel with a damaged passport?

No. Any damage to the data page, photo, or significant wear makes a passport invalid for travel. You need an emergency replacement.

What if I'm in a country without a US embassy?

Contact the nearest US consulate or the embassy in a neighboring country. Some countries have honorary consuls who can provide limited assistance.

How long is an emergency passport valid?

Emergency passports are typically valid for 1 year and cannot be renewed. You must apply for a new 10-year passport when you return to the US.

Can I get an emergency passport for my child?

Yes, but both parents must consent unless you have sole custody documentation. The process is the same but requires additional parental consent forms.

How to get an emergency passport while traveling

If you're a US citizen abroad with a lost, stolen, or damaged passport, contact the nearest US embassy or consulate immediately. Emergency passports take 1-3 business days and cost $165 plus expedite fees.

Report and document the situation. File a police report if your passport was stolen. Take photos of any damage if it was damaged. You'll need this documentation for your emergency passport application.
Contact the nearest US embassy or consulate. Call or visit during business hours. Many have after-hours emergency numbers for urgent situations. Schedule an appointment online if possible - walk-ins may face long waits.
Gather required documents. Bring any form of US identification (driver's license, expired passport, birth certificate copy), proof of US citizenship, passport photos (2x2 inches), and evidence of immediate travel needs (airline tickets).
Complete Form DS-11. Fill out the passport application form. You can download it online or get it at the embassy. Don't sign it until you're in front of the consular officer.
Pay the fees. Emergency passport fee is $165. If you need it the same day, add $60 expedite fee. Most locations accept cash, money orders, or credit cards. Check specific embassy payment methods.
Wait for processing. Emergency passports typically take 1-3 business days. Same-day service is available in life-or-death emergencies or if you have proof of travel within 24-48 hours.

Can I travel with a damaged passport?: No. Any damage to the data page, photo, or significant wear makes a passport invalid for travel. You need an emergency replacement.
What if I'm in a country without a US embassy?: Contact the nearest US consulate or the embassy in a neighboring country. Some countries have honorary consuls who can provide limited assistance.
How long is an emergency passport valid?: Emergency passports are typically valid for 1 year and cannot be renewed. You must apply for a new 10-year passport when you return to the US.
Can I get an emergency passport for my child?: Yes, but both parents must consent unless you have sole custody documentation. The process is the same but requires additional parental consent forms.