Passport Help Center

Guides, tools, and resources for every passport situation — from lost passports to name changes to urgent travel needs.

Common Passport Issues

Report it immediately and apply for a replacement.

Requirements for children under 16 and teens 16-17.

Size, background, expression, and common mistakes.

Current fees for adults, minors, expedited service, and delivery.

Update your passport after marriage, divorce, or court order.

Book vs. card, large vs. standard, and which to choose.

Water damage, torn pages, separated covers, or unauthorized markings mean you need a replacement. You cannot renew a damaged passport by mail.

Second passports are issued for conflicting visas or frequent business travel. You must submit a written request explaining the need.

You can select M or F as your gender marker without medical documentation. Update it during your next renewal.

If your passport has a printing error and was issued less than 1 year ago, use Form DS-5504 at no charge.

Check your passport application status online at travel.state.gov.

Locate passport offices, post offices, and clerk of courts near you.

Get DS-11, DS-82, DS-64, DS-3053, and all other passport forms.

Browse answers to the most common passport questions by category.

Use our interactive Path Finder tool on the homepage to get step-by-step guidance based on your specific situation and travel timeline.