Damaged Passport Replacement Guide
What counts as a damaged passport, how to replace it, and whether you can still travel with it.
What Counts as a Damaged Passport?
The U.S. Department of State considers a passport "damaged" if any of the following conditions affect its usability, legibility, or integrity. A damaged passport must be replaced before it can be used for travel.
Definitely Damaged
- Water damage affecting ink or pages
- Torn, missing, or detached pages
- Cover separated from the binding
- Unauthorized markings or writing
- Holes punched through data pages
- RFID chip failure (in e-passports)
- Laminated pages that were not originally laminated
Usually Acceptable
- Slight bending of the cover from normal use
- Minor corner creases or wear
- Faint discoloration from age
- Small tears on blank pages (not data pages)
- Normal wear from being carried in a bag
Do not attempt to repair a damaged passport. Using tape, glue, or any other adhesive to fix torn pages or a detached cover may invalidate the document entirely. Always apply for a replacement instead.
Normal Wear vs. Damage
Border agents and airlines have discretion when deciding whether to accept a worn passport. If an agent cannot read your personal data page, scan the chip, or verify your photo, you may be denied boarding or entry.
The Safe Rule
If you are unsure whether your passport is too damaged, replace it before traveling — especially if your trip is non-refundable or time-sensitive. A replacement application costs the same as a renewal and is far cheaper than missing a flight or being turned away at a border.
Airlines are increasingly strict about document condition because they face fines if they transport passengers with invalid passports. A border agent's decision at your destination may differ from the airline's at departure. Do not risk it.
How to Replace a Damaged Passport
A damaged passport cannot be renewed by mail using Form DS-82. You must apply in person at a passport acceptance facility using Form DS-11, the same form used by first-time applicants.
Gather Your Documents
Bring the damaged passport, proof of citizenship (certified birth certificate or naturalization certificate), photo ID, photocopy of ID, and a new passport photo.
Complete Form DS-11
Fill out Form DS-11 using the State Department's online Form Filler. Do NOT sign it until you are at the acceptance facility.
Bring the Damaged Passport
Submit your damaged passport with the application. The agent will keep it and send it to the State Department for cancellation.
Pay the Fees
Pay the standard passport fee plus the $35 execution fee at the acceptance facility. You can also add $60 for expedited service.
Wait for Your New Passport
Routine processing takes 4-8 weeks. Expedited takes 3-4 weeks. If you need it faster, a registered courier can help.
Documents You Need
- The damaged passport (must be submitted)
- Certified birth certificate or naturalization certificate
- Valid government-issued photo ID + photocopy
- One new 2x2 inch passport photo
- Payment for fees (check or money order)
Can I Travel With a Damaged Passport?
If your passport has minor wear and all data is clearly legible, you may be fine. But if there is any water damage, torn pages, or a detached cover, you risk being denied boarding or entry.
If Your Trip Is Soon
Apply for expedited replacement immediately. Add the $60 expedited fee for 3-4 week processing. If you need it faster, a registered courier can help with 24-hour to 14-day processing.
If You Are Already Abroad
Visit the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate. They can issue an emergency limited-validity passport that will get you home. You will need to apply for a full-validity replacement once you return.
Replacement Fees
Because a damaged passport requires in-person application using Form DS-11, you pay the same fees as a first-time applicant — including the $35 execution fee.
| Service | Fee | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Large Passport Book (Adult) | $130 | Payable to U.S. Department of State |
| Passport Card (Adult) | $65 | Payable to U.S. Department of State |
| Execution Fee | $35 | Paid at acceptance facility |
| Expedited Service | $60 | 3-4 week processing |
| 1-2 Day Delivery | $22.05 | Return shipping only |
How to Prevent Passport Damage
Use a Passport Cover
A rigid or padded cover protects against bending, moisture, and wear in your bag.
Keep It Dry
Never carry your passport in a pocket where it might get wet. Use a waterproof pouch at beaches or pools.
Store It Flat
Avoid folding or cramming your passport into tight spaces. Store it flat in a safe place.
Do Not Laminate
Laminating any page invalidates the passport. Do not use adhesive protectors on data pages.
Frequently Asked Questions About Damaged Passports
Can I travel with a slightly damaged passport?
It depends. Normal wear such as light bending or minor corner wear is usually acceptable. However, water damage, torn pages, a separated cover, or unreadable data will likely get you denied boarding. When in doubt, replace it before traveling.
How do I replace a damaged passport?
You must apply in person using Form DS-11, just like a first-time applicant. Bring the damaged passport, proof of citizenship, photo ID, a new passport photo, and payment for fees plus the $35 execution fee. You cannot renew a damaged passport by mail.
Can I renew a damaged passport by mail?
No. A damaged passport cannot be renewed by mail using Form DS-82. You must apply in person at an acceptance facility using Form DS-11 and pay the execution fee. See our first-time application guide for the full process.
What counts as a damaged passport?
The State Department considers a passport damaged if it has water damage affecting ink or pages, torn or missing pages, a cover separated from the binding, unauthorized markings, holes punched through data pages, RFID chip failure, or laminated pages that were not originally laminated.
How much does it cost to replace a damaged passport?
Because a damaged passport requires in-person application using Form DS-11, you pay the same fees as a first-time applicant: $130 for a large book plus a $35 execution fee. Expedited service adds $60. See our Passport Fees guide for complete pricing.
How long does it take to replace a damaged passport?
Routine replacement takes 4-8 weeks. Expedited replacement takes 3-4 weeks with an additional $60 fee. If you need it faster for urgent travel, a registered passport courier can help with 24-hour to 14-day processing.
Can I repair my damaged passport?
No. Do not attempt to repair a damaged passport using tape, glue, or any other adhesive. Doing so may invalidate the document entirely. Always apply for a replacement instead.
What if my passport is damaged but I need to travel soon?
Apply for expedited replacement immediately. Add the $60 expedited fee for 3-4 week processing. If your trip is within 14 days, visit a regional passport agency with proof of travel or use a registered courier for 24-hour to 14-day processing.
Will the airline accept a damaged passport?
Airlines are increasingly strict about document condition because they face fines if they transport passengers with invalid passports. A border agent's decision at your destination may differ from the airline's at departure. If your data page is unreadable, your photo is obscured, or the chip is damaged, you risk being denied boarding.
Can a courier help with a damaged passport replacement?
Yes. A registered passport courier can expedite the replacement of a damaged passport in 24 hours to 14 days by delivering your application to a regional passport agency. This is especially helpful if you cannot get an agency appointment or do not live near a regional agency. FastPassportCenter.com offers this service nationwide.
Need a Replacement Fast?
If you are traveling soon and your passport is damaged, a registered courier can help you get a replacement in as little as 24 hours.
Get Emergency Replacement Help