Replace a Damaged U.S. Passport
Expedited Damaged Passport Replacement Services
If your U.S. passport is damaged, it may no longer be valid for international travel.
Texas Tower Passport and Visa helps travelers replace damaged passports quickly by guiding you through the correct forms, required documents, and expedited processing.
What Counts as a Damaged Passport?
A passport is considered damaged if it is significantly altered or no longer in good condition.
Common examples include:
- Water damage (spills, washing machine, rain exposure)
- Torn or missing pages
- Detached or loose cover
- Heavy wear that makes information hard to read
- Ink damage or stains on the data page
- Unauthorized markings or alterations
Normal wear and tear (light bending or minor scuffs) is usually acceptable, but if there’s any doubt, it’s safer to replace it.
Is My Passport Too Damaged?
When in doubt, replace it — border agents make the final decision.
✅ Usually OK to Travel
- Light wear or minor bending
- Slight cover scuffing
- Small creases that do not affect readability
- Pages fully intact and attached
- Photo page is clear and undamaged
🚫 Likely Not Accepted
- Water damage or warped pages
- Torn, missing, or loose pages
- Detached or peeling cover
- Stains or ink on the data/photo page
- Anything that makes your information hard to read
⚠️ Important: Damaged Passports Cannot Be Renewed
If your passport is damaged, you cannot use the standard renewal process.
You must apply for a new passport using Form DS-11 and submit your damaged passport with your application.
How the Damaged Passport Process Works
Step 1 — Complete Form DS-11
A damaged passport requires a new application using Form DS-11.
Step 2 — Write a Damage Statement
You must include a signed statement explaining how your passport was damaged.
Step 3 — Gather Required Documents
Include your damaged passport, proof of citizenship, ID, passport photo, and Texas Tower documents.
Step 4 — Visit a Passport Acceptance Facility
Apply in person. The acceptance agent will review your documents and seal your application package.
Step 5 — Mail the Sealed Envelope to Texas Tower
Do not open the sealed envelope. Mail it directly for expedited processing.
Choose Your Processing Speed
Choose Your Processing Speed
Same Day
$225
For immediate or emergency travel
Requires FedEx First Overnight with Signature Release
2–3 Days
$158
For urgent upcoming travel
5–10 Days
$89
For upcoming travel that is not immediate
Damaged Passport Checklist
| What You Need | Notes |
|---|---|
| Completed DS-11 application | Access form DS-11 Must be submitted with the application |
| Damaged passport | Must be submitted with application |
| Signed damage statement | Explain how the passport was damaged |
| Proof of U.S. citizenship | Original Birth certificate, naturalization certificate, or other accepted proof |
| Valid photo ID | Driver’s license or other accepted ID |
| Photocopy of ID | Front and back copy |
| Passport photos | Submit two photos. Use CVS, Walgreens, FedEx, or a professional passport photo provider |
| Travel itinerary | Required for expedited passport service. View Sample Rush Request letter. |
| Two Texas Tower authorization letters | One goes inside the sealed envelope, and one stays outside for Texas Tower. Get your Texas Tower Authorization form. |
| Texas Tower order form | Include it with the package sent to our office. You can download the Texas Tower Order Form here. |
When Should You Replace a Damaged Passport?
📌 When in Doubt, Replace It
Airlines and border officials can deny boarding or entry if a passport appears damaged.
If your passport has water damage, tears, or a loose cover, it’s safer to replace it before traveling.
⚠️ Important: Do Not Open the Sealed Envelope
Once the passport acceptance facility seals your application package, do not open it.
Opening the envelope can delay or void the application. Mail the sealed package directly to Texas Tower Passport and Visa.
Damaged Passport Fees
U.S. Government Fees
- Passport Agency Fee: $190
- Acceptance Facility Execution Fee: $35
Texas Tower Service Fees
- Same Day Processing: $225.00
- 2–3 Day Processing: $158.00
- 5–10 Day Processing: $89.00
Mail Your Package To
Texas Tower Passport and Visa Services
2020 Montrose Blvd. Suite 400
Houston, TX 77006
📞 713-874-1420
📧 info@texastower.net
Need to Replace a Damaged Passport Fast?
If your passport has water damage, torn pages, or a loose cover, it may not be accepted for travel.
Call 713-874-1420 before mailing your documents so Texas Tower Passport and Visa can help confirm your application is complete and ready for expedited processing.