Quick answer
Short answer
A passport that will not scan usually has a failed electronic chip. The document may still be accepted at manual inspection, but it will fail automated kiosks and e-gates, so replacement before international travel is strongly recommended.
Why chips fail
The antenna and chip sit inside the cover. Bending, heat, moisture, and ordinary wear can break the connection permanently. There is no repair.
Can you still travel?
Sometimes, with delays. But automated border systems in many countries assume a working chip, and boarding decisions are made by people who do not have time to debate it.
Replacement path
A chip failure is generally handled as a damaged passport, meaning in-person replacement rather than mail renewal.
Fix a non-scanning passport
Answer a few questions and see which passport route still fits your travel date.
Keep reading
XpressPass is a private passport assistance service and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or operated by the U.S. Department of State or any other government agency. Government passport fees are separate from XpressPass service fees. Passport issuance decisions are made solely by the U.S. government.