Damaged passport? Picture heavy

SarahJayne25

I got asked for ID the other day. The woman in the pub had just been on a course, and told me they wouldn't usually accept my passport because it looks worn and the security pages are faded - as if it had been in a washing machine (it hasn't) it was issued in 06 and it just looks like general wear and tear to me.

I'll be flying in a couple of weeks, if someone in the pub asked me this, then what are airport security going to think? Are they really that strict with slightly worn passports?

The alternative traveling to a passport office and paying £103 for fast track for a new one, but I don't have a 'professional' to sign it.

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I tried to upload pictures, but it won't let me because I'm a new member. the edges of the passport are slightly worn, small eyeliner marks on the inside of about 3 pages.

Is there anywhere I can take it to check other than a passport office?

agrinnall

I'm too old to need to prove my age in pubs so I'm able to leave my passport safely at home to maintain it in good condition, but I'm sure airport staff are used to seeing passports in a wide range of conditions, and as long as the photo page is still OK I would expect you to be fine.

torbrex

You know better than anyone where your passport has been and yet you trust the word of a woman in the pub enough to make you doubt the validity of it :eek:

Forget about her and go on holiday.

Neil49

The important part is the machine readable code line across the bottom of the photo page. This is what gets swiped through the machines and checks your status. As long as you can see that the photo looks something like you then just go on holiday.

pelirocco

My passport is pretty battered , the print on the cover is wearing off , its covered in teeth marks where i tend to hold it in my mouth when searching through bags , and its covered in security labels , never been an issue at an airport yet

Bob_the_Saver

I don't know if fast track applications are different but a normal renewal
doesn't need a 'professionals' signature.

jetsetterjoe

If you don't want to take the risk, head to the passport office and ask them.

If it means £103, then it's better than no holiday, right?

If in doubt...

smudge56

The passport office can't tell you if the passport will be accepted or not - they can only advise. If the data page is damaged - eg the laminate is lifted it would be a good idea to replace it. If you do decide to get a new passport DON'T take it out for ID - get yourself a photo driving licence - the new passports are not as sturdy, the chip can be damaged and if you get the data page wet - the photo disappears and the page turns green.
You won't need your form certified if you can still be recognised from the photo in your old passport

cb4fwh

When I travelled to the US in September, I had my passport checked at Heathrow before being allowed to check-in. It passed (just!) & it was strongly suggested that I get it replaced (I have!)

Mine had previously been through the washing machine though, and the page attached to the outside purple 'cover' had ripped near the spine. US customs also suggested that I got it changed but let me through.

They both stated that as the photo page was intact, they were happy to let me continue on my holiday!

van22663

Depends what country you are flying to & who is on passport control on the day im afraid.
Good luck

Snap-ant

This month is the busiest period for Passports - 70% extra

If you do decide to renew your passport - you would only need to get a counter signatory if your appearance has changed greatly.
A passport is £72.50 & the Post Office do a service which costs an extra £8.75 where they will check it & post it on securely.
The turnaround for this is usually 14 working days but being a busy time it will take longer.