# Travel >> Travel Preparation >> Passports

Line by Line Instructions for Passport Renewal

A U.S. passport is a required document for travel to anywhere outside the United States, because it indicates that you are a citizen of this country. Every 10 years, you are required by law to reapply for a passport renewal if you intend to continue traveling internationally. However, the passport renewal process is different from applying a passport for the first time.

Form DS-82
Copy of your U.S. passport (must be undamaged)
Marriage License or court certificate of name change (if you have changed your name)
New passport photo

Instructions

- 1
  Enter your name, Social Security number, address and phone number into the areas listed on Form DS-82.
- 2
  Affix your passport photo to the area indicated on the first page of the application.
- 3
  Enter your previous passport ID and issue date as indicated on your current passport.
- 4
  Re-enter your name, description of appearance, emergency contact number and travel plans on page 2 of the application.
- 5
  Print out and sign the application in black ink in the area indicated on page 1.
- 6
  Mail the completed application along with your current U.S. passport and a check for the current passport fee made out to "Department of State" to The National Passport Processing Center at P.O. Box 90155 Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, 19190-0155.
  
  If you have changed your name, supply proof of the change (such as a court order or marriage license) with your renewal application.