Finding a mistake in your passport after it arrives can be concerning. A passport printing error can involve incorrect personal information, a photo issue, or another mistake made during the production process.
Before using the passport for international travel, check the information carefully.
Check Your Passport as Soon as It Arrives
When your passport arrives, look through it before putting it away.
Check:
- Full name
- Date of birth
- Place of birth
- Passport number
- Sex
- Photo
- Expiration date
Compare the information with your application and supporting documents.
What Counts as a Passport Printing Error?
A printing error is generally different from information that you entered incorrectly on your application.
For example, if you provided the correct date of birth but the passport was printed with a different date, that is different from accidentally entering the wrong date on your application.
The cause of the error can affect how you should correct it.
What If Your Name Is Incorrect?
Check your passport carefully if your name does not appear as expected.
Names can sometimes look different because of formatting or spacing. However, if your passport contains incorrect information, address the issue before traveling.
You may need supporting documentation depending on the type of correction.
What If Your Date of Birth Is Wrong?
A wrong date of birth is another issue you should address.
Compare your passport with your birth certificate or other citizenship documents.
If the information does not match because of a government printing error, contact the U.S. Department of State for instructions on correcting the passport.
What If Your Passport Photo Has a Problem?
Your passport photo should accurately represent you and meet U.S. passport photo requirements.
If the passport contains a printing or production problem involving the photograph, contact the Department of State for guidance.
Do not alter the passport yourself.
Should You Travel With a Passport That Has an Error?
If you notice incorrect information, address the problem before your trip whenever possible.
Even a small error can raise questions when airlines or border officials check your passport.
If you have upcoming international travel, explain the issue and your departure date when seeking assistance.
Do Not Write on or Alter Your Passport
Do not try to fix a printing error yourself.
Do not cross out information, add new information, remove pages, or make other changes to your passport.
A passport is an official government document. If information needs to be corrected, follow the appropriate replacement or correction process.
What If the Error Was on Your Application?
Not every passport mistake is a government printing error.
If you accidentally entered incorrect information on your application, the correction process may be different.
Gather your application documents and compare them with the passport to determine where the mistake occurred.
What If You Have a Trip Coming Up?
If you discover a passport printing error shortly before international travel, take action as soon as possible.
Have your passport, travel itinerary, and supporting documents available when contacting a passport service or the Department of State.
Depending on the circumstances, you may have options to correct or replace your passport before your trip.
How The Passport Office Can Help
The Passport Office assists travelers with passport applications, renewals, corrections, and expedited passport services.
If you find an error in your passport, our team can help you understand the next steps and determine what documentation you may need.
We have locations in Washington DC, Seattle, Atlanta, Orlando, Tampa, Miami, Hollywood, and Clearwater.
We also offer virtual appointments for travelers nationwide.
Final Thoughts
Address a passport printing error before you use the passport for international travel. Compare the information in your passport with your application and citizenship documents, and don’t try to make changes yourself.
If you have a trip coming up soon, seek assistance as early as possible so you have time to address the problem.