# Travel >> Travel Preparation >> Passports

How to Apply for Passport Renewal

As a citizen of the United States, you must have a valid passport in order to go to and leave most foreign countries. A U.S. passport is only valid for 10 years after its issue date, though, so you must renew it. Follow these steps to renew this essential travel document by mail.

Instructions

- 1
  Verify that your passport is either approaching its expiration date or has already expired.
- 2
  Know when you can renew your passport by mail. You must be able to submit your undamaged current passport, which was issued within the past 15 years. You also must have been over 16 when it was issued. As well, you must either still go by the same name as is stated on the passport or be able to document a name change. If you do not meet these requirements, you must complete the passport renewal in person at an appropriate facility.
- 3
  Download the passport renewal application from the Bureau of Consular Affairs website. Complete the application.
- 4
  Mail the application to the address indicated on the document, along with your recent passport, 2 passport photos and the applicable fee for the U.S. Department of State. Await your passport renewal.