SESKStuff Everyone Should Know
SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/trav-printing-error-free-fix

Your new passport has a printing error. What does the State Department charge to fix it?

Nothing, if the passport is still valid.

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  1. Half the renewal fee
  2. The full renewal fee
  3. Nothing, if it is still valid ✔

Why: The State Department corrects its own printing errors for free if the passport is still valid. You mail Form DS-5504, the passport, a photo, and proof of the error.

Huh, didn't know that: Report an error within a year and the new passport keeps a full 10 year (adult) or 5 year (under 16) validity.

The dad joke
The passport office fixed my typo for free. I tried to tip them in stamps.
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References

Answer: Nothing, if it is still valid. The State Department corrects its own printing errors for free if the passport is still valid. You mail Form DS-5504, the passport, a photo, and proof of the error.

  1. State Dept: Change or correct a passport travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/passports/have-passport/change-correct.html
    We will correct the error at no charge if the passport is still valid.
    Checked 2026-10-11.

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