Losing your passport before an international trip can be an absolute nightmare. Without a valid passport, you won’t be able to board your flight, and standard processing times for a new one can take weeks—sometimes even months. If you find yourself in this situation, don’t panic. Emergency expedited passport services offer a solution for travelers in Delaware (DE) and New Hampshire (NH) who need a fast replacement.
This guide walks you through the steps to secure a same-day passport or emergency lost passport replacement, ensuring you can continue with your travel plans without unnecessary delays.
Step 1: Report the Lost or Stolen Passport Immediately
Before you apply for a new passport, you must report your old one as lost or stolen. This prevents identity theft and unauthorized use of your passport.
- Complete Form DS-64(Statement of Lost or Stolen Passport)
- This form officially notifies the U.S. State Department that your passport is no longer in your possession.
- You can fill it out online and print it or print a blank form and complete it by hand.
- If you’re using an expedited service, you will need to include this form in your application package.
- File a Police Report (Optional but Recommended)
- If your passport was stolen, it’s a good idea to file a police report with your local authorities.
- While not required, this report can help prove your case if you encounter any security issues while applying for a replacement.
Step 2: Gather the Required Documents
To qualify for emergency passport processing, you must provide specific documentation that verifies your identity, citizenship, and travel plans.
1. Proof of Identity
To confirm who you are, you need a valid, government-issued ID. The best options include:
- Driver’s license (must be issued at least six months ago)
- State-issued ID (front and back copies required)
If your ID was issued in the last six months, or if it’s expired, you’ll need to provide two additional forms of ID, such as:
- Social Security card
- Voter registration card
- Employee or student ID
- Medicare or health insurance card
If you don’t have a primary ID, bring as many secondary forms of ID as possible to support your application.
2. Proof of Citizenship
To prove your U.S. citizenship, you must provide one of the following:
- A previously issued U.S. passport (even if expired)
- An original or certified copy of your U.S. birth certificate
- A Certificate of Naturalization (if applicable)
A hospital birth certificate is not accepted. Make sure you have the correct version, which includes a registrar’s seal.
3. Passport Photos
Your new passport will require a recent passport-compliant photo. Many people get rejected for small mistakes, so follow these rules carefully:
- Must be taken within the last six months
- Must be in color
- No glasses, hats, or head coverings (unless for religious or medical reasons)
- Must have a plain white or off-white background
- A neutral facial expression (no smiling, frowning, or exaggerated expressions)
Most CVS, Walgreens, and post offices offer passport photo services. Make sure to ask for two copies of your photo in case one is rejected.
4. Proof of Urgent Travel (Travel Itinerary)
Since emergency passport services are reserved for urgent travel cases, you must provide proof that you are traveling soon.
Acceptable documents include:
- A flight confirmation, plane ticket, or e-ticket
- Hotel reservations (for land travel)
- A business travel letter (if traveling for work)
Personal statements about your travel urgency are not accepted. Only official documents will be considered.
5. Passport Fees
Passport fees must be paid via check or money order. You’ll need two separate payments made to the U.S. Department of State:
- $190.00 – Passport processing fee
- $19.53 – 1-2 day express return shipping fee
Checks must be exact. If the amount is incorrect, your application will be rejected.
Step 3: Schedule an Emergency Passport Submission
For travelers in Delaware and New Hampshire, emergency passport applications must be submitted within 14 days of travel (or 28 days if a visa is required). Processing usually takes one to three business days, with overnight return shipping for fast delivery.
It’s recommended to schedule your appointment six to 14 days before your departure to ensure enough time for processing.
Step 4: Visit an Acceptance Facility for Your Appointment
Now that you have all your documents, you’ll need to visit a passport acceptance facility (such as a post office or passport agency) to submit your application.
At the appointment, you will present all original documents and photocopies. You must sign your passport application (Form DS-11) in front of the agent. If using an expedited passport service, you’ll provide a letter of authorization to allow them to process your application on your behalf.
Processing Time Options:
- Standard expedited processing: 5-7 days
- Emergency expedited processing: 1-3 days
- Same-day processing (only available in certain cases)
Expedited Passport Processing in Delaware and New Hampshire
For travelers in Delaware and New Hampshire, emergency expedited passport services can help you replace a lost or stolen passport in record time.
If you’re in Dover, Wilmington, Concord, or Manchester, don’t let a lost passport ruin your travel plans. Fast-track options are available to replace your passport within days, not weeks.
Get a Fast Replacement with Prompt Passport Services
Losing a passport before a trip can be overwhelming, but a fast replacement is possible. Prompt Passport Services offers emergency expedited passports to help you stay on schedule.
- Same-day and 24-hour processing available for urgent cases
- Fast-track passport services in Delaware and New Hampshire
- Emergency lost passport replacements with delivery in as little as 1-3 business days
Don’t let a lost or stolen passport delay your travel. Start your expedited passport process today with a reliable fast-track service. Contact Prompt Passport Services today.
