What To Know
- You can apply in person at a passport acceptance facility or submit your application by mail to the National Passport Processing Center.
- You will need to apply for a new passport card and report the lost or stolen card to the National Passport Information Center.
- Can I apply for a passport card and a passport book at the same time.
Your passport card is an essential travel document that grants you access to land and sea ports of entry into the United States. However, if your passport card becomes damaged, it’s crucial to replace it promptly to avoid travel disruptions. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll provide you with step-by-step instructions on how to replace damaged passport card, along with essential tips and resources.
Steps to Replace a Damaged Passport Card
1. Gather Required Documents:
- Original damaged passport card
- Completed Form DS-64
- Two recent passport-style photos
- Proof of U.S. citizenship (e.g., birth certificate, naturalization certificate)
- Payment for the passport card fee
2. Apply in Person or by Mail:
- You can apply in person at a passport acceptance facility or submit your application by mail to the National Passport Processing Center.
- If applying by mail, follow the instructions provided in Form DS-64 carefully.
3. Fees and Processing Time:
- The current fee for a passport card is $65.
- Processing time varies depending on the method of application and the time of year. Expect a turnaround time of 4-8 weeks for routine processing.
4. Track Your Application:
- Once your application is submitted, you can track its status online or by calling the National Passport Information Center.
5. Receive Your New Passport Card:
- Upon approval, your new passport card will be mailed to the address you provided on the application.
Tips for Replacing a Damaged Passport Card
- Act Promptly: Replace your passport card as soon as possible to avoid travel delays.
- Check Expiration Date: If your passport card is expired, you’ll need to apply for a new one, not a replacement.
- Keep a Copy: Make a photocopy of your passport card for your records in case of emergencies.
- Use a Passport Holder: Protect your passport card from damage by using a durable passport holder.
Resources for Replacing a Damaged Passport Card
- [National Passport Information Center](https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/passports/apply-renew-passport.html)
- [Form DS-64 Application for Passport](https://travel.state.gov/content/dam/passports/forms/ds-64.pdf)
- [Passport Acceptance Facilities](https://iafdb.travel.state.gov/)
Questions We Hear a Lot
Q: Can I replace my passport card if it’s only slightly damaged?
A: No, you can only replace a passport card if it’s physically damaged to the point that it cannot be used for travel.
Q: What if my passport card is lost or stolen?
A: You will need to apply for a new passport card and report the lost or stolen card to the National Passport Information Center.
Q: Can I apply for a passport card and a passport book at the same time?
A: Yes, you can apply for both documents simultaneously using Form DS-11.
Q: What happens if I have multiple damaged passport cards?
A: You will need to replace each damaged passport card individually by following the steps outlined in this guide.
Q: Can I expedite the processing of my passport card replacement?
A: Yes, you can request expedited processing for an additional fee. However, this does not guarantee a specific delivery date.
