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U.S. Passport Photo Requirements

Complete guide to U.S. Department of State passport photo specifications. Improper photos are the #1 reason for application rejection — get it right the first time.

Official Specifications

Passport Photo Requirements

These specifications are set by the U.S. Department of State. Photos that don't meet every requirement will be rejected, delaying your application.

Photo Dimensions

  • •Exactly 2 x 2 inches (51 x 51 mm)
  • •Head must measure 1 to 1 3/8 inches (25–35 mm) from chin to top of head
  • •Full face must be visible and centered
  • •Photo must be in color, printed on matte or glossy photo-quality paper

Background

  • •Plain white or off-white background only
  • •No patterns, textures, or objects in the background
  • •No shadows on the face or background
  • •Digital photos must have a uniform white background

Lighting & Exposure

  • •Even lighting across the entire face — no shadows
  • •No red-eye or flash reflections
  • •Face must be properly exposed — not too dark or too bright
  • •Natural skin tones must be accurately represented

Facial Expression

  • •Neutral expression with both eyes open
  • •Mouth closed — no wide smiles or exaggerated expressions
  • •A natural, slight smile is acceptable
  • •Face the camera directly with full face in view

Attire & Accessories

  • •No glasses permitted (since November 2016)
  • •No uniforms or camouflage clothing
  • •No hats or head coverings (except religious attire worn daily)
  • •No headphones, earbuds, or hands-free devices
  • •No large jewelry that obscures facial features

Photo Quality

  • •Must be taken within the last 6 months
  • •No digital alterations, filters, or retouching
  • •No selfies — use a tripod or have someone take the photo
  • •Photo must be clear with no pixelation or blur
  • •Printed on high-quality photo paper (not regular printer paper)

The #1 Reason for Passport Application Rejection

Incorrect passport photos are the single most common reason applications get rejected by the State Department. Even minor issues — like a slightly off-white background, a shadow behind the ear, or a head that's 1mm too small — can cause your entire application to be returned. Fast Passport Center reviews your photo as part of our document pre-check service, catching issues before they delay your travel plans.

Avoid Rejection

Top 10 Photo Mistakes to Avoid

These are the most common reasons passport photos get rejected. Check each one carefully before submitting.

#1 Wrong photo size

The photo must be exactly 2x2 inches. Drugstore photo booths sometimes crop incorrectly — always measure before submitting.

#2 Wearing glasses

Remove glasses completely. Even prescription glasses with clear lenses are not allowed. No exceptions without a signed doctor's note.

#3 Shadows on face or background

Use diffused, even lighting from the front. Avoid overhead lights that cast shadows. A professional photo studio ensures shadow-free results.

#4 Incorrect head size

Your head must occupy 50–69% of the photo height (1 to 1 3/8 inches from chin to crown). Photos where the head is too small or too large are rejected.

#5 Colored or patterned background

Use only a plain white or off-white background. Cream, beige, or light gray backgrounds are acceptable if they're solid and uniform.

#6 Smiling too much or mouth open

Keep a neutral expression. A very slight natural smile is OK, but no teeth showing and no exaggerated expressions.

#7 Photo more than 6 months old

If your appearance has changed — weight change, new facial hair style, different hair color — take a new photo, even if it's been less than 6 months.

#8 Selfie or front-facing camera

Selfies distort facial proportions. Always have someone else take your photo or use a tripod with a rear-facing camera at eye level.

#9 Digital editing or filters

No Photoshop, no beautifying filters, no AI enhancement. The photo must be a true, unaltered likeness of you.

#10 Wearing a hat or head covering

Remove all headwear. Religious head coverings worn daily are allowed but must not cast shadows or cover your hairline. A signed statement may be required.

Getting Your Photo

Where to Get a Passport Photo

You have several options for getting a compliant passport photo. Choose based on your budget, timeline, and comfort level.

Pharmacies & Retail Stores

Walgreens, CVS, Walmart, and FedEx Office all offer passport photo services. Most charge $12–$17 for two identical 2x2 photos. They use standardized equipment that meets State Department requirements, but always verify the final product matches all specifications.

Pros

  • Convenient — thousands of locations nationwide
  • Relatively affordable at $12–$17
  • Same-day service at most locations

Cons

  • Quality varies by store and employee
  • Not all locations offer the service
  • May not catch subtle issues like shadowing

Post Offices & Acceptance Facilities

Many U.S. Post Office locations and passport acceptance facilities offer on-site photo services for a fee (typically $15). This can be the most convenient option if you're already visiting for a DS-11 application appointment.

Pros

  • One-stop shop — photo and application in one visit
  • Staff familiar with passport requirements
  • No separate trip needed

Cons

  • Not available at all acceptance facilities
  • Limited hours — only during facility operating times
  • May have longer wait times

Professional Photography Studios

Professional photographers are trained in passport photo specifications and use studio-grade lighting equipment. This is the most reliable option and recommended if you've had photos rejected before or have specific needs like infant photos.

Pros

  • Highest quality and consistency
  • Expert can handle tricky cases (infants, medical needs)
  • Multiple retakes at no extra cost

Cons

  • More expensive — typically $25–$50
  • Requires advance appointment scheduling
  • Not always conveniently located

DIY at Home (with Caution)

You can take your own passport photo using a digital camera or smartphone (rear camera only — no selfies). The State Department offers an online photo cropping tool. Print at home on high-quality photo paper or use a photo printing service.

Pros

  • Most affordable — essentially free
  • Take as many attempts as needed
  • Full control over timing and conditions

Cons

  • Highest rejection risk if you miss a spec
  • Requires editing/cropping know-how
  • Print quality depends on your equipment
  • Selfies are not accepted

Questions Answered

Photo Requirements FAQ

Common questions about passport photos, answered by registered passport specialists.

Can I use a digital photo for my passport application?
Yes, the State Department accepts digital photos for online renewals. The digital file must meet all the same requirements as a physical photo: 2x2 inch dimensions (600x600 pixels minimum), plain white background, proper lighting and composition. For in-person DS-11 applications at acceptance facilities, you'll typically need physical printed photos.
What if I'm applying for a baby's passport?
Infant passport photos have the same size and quality requirements, but there are special considerations: the baby's eyes must be open (no sleeping photos), no one else's hands or body parts can be visible, and the baby should be laid on a white sheet or held in a car seat covered with a white cloth. No pacifiers or toys in the photo.
Can I wear makeup in my passport photo?
Yes, you can wear everyday makeup. However, avoid heavy contouring, dramatic eye makeup, or anything that significantly alters your natural appearance. The photo should look like you on a normal day. The goal is identifiability at border control.
My passport photo was rejected — what now?
If the State Department rejects your photo, they'll return your application with a letter explaining the issue. You'll need to submit a new, compliant photo and resubmit. This adds significant delays — typically 2–4 weeks. That's why Fast Passport Center includes document pre-review in our service: we catch photo issues before they reach the State Department.
Is there a difference between passport book and passport card photos?
No. The photo requirements are identical for passport books and passport cards. The same 2x2 inch photo specification applies to all U.S. passport products.
Can I wear a religious head covering in my photo?
Yes, but only if you wear it daily for religious purposes. The covering must not cast shadows on your face, and your full face must be visible from the bottom of the chin to the top of the forehead. You may also need to submit a signed statement explaining that the head covering is worn for religious reasons.
What about facial piercings and tattoos?
Facial piercings and tattoos are generally acceptable as long as they don't obscure your facial features or create shadows. However, if your piercings or tattoos are extensive enough to affect identification, consider removing visible piercings for the photo. The photo must be a clear, recognizable likeness of you.
How do I crop my photo correctly for digital submission?
Use the State Department's free online photo tool at travel.state.gov. The tool helps you crop and position your photo to meet exact specifications. Do not use third-party apps that add filters or alter the image. The final image must be at least 600x600 pixels.

Ready to Apply?

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Fast Passport Center's document pre-review catches photo issues before they reach the State Department — saving you weeks of delay. Start your application and our experts will verify every document, including your photo.

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