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Passport Photo Requirements

The complete guide to U.S. passport photos — size, background, expression, clothing, and the most common mistakes that get photos rejected.

Photo Size Requirements

2×2″
Overall Size
1-1 3/8″
Head Size
6 Months
Max Age of Photo

Your head must measure between 1 inch and 1 3/8 inches (25-35 mm) from the bottom of your chin to the top of your head. The photo must be printed on matte or glossy photo-quality paper. Photos printed on regular printer paper will be rejected.

Background

The background must be plain white or off-white. There can be no patterns, textures, shadows, or objects visible. Stand about 4 feet away from the wall to avoid casting a shadow.

Correct

  • Plain white or off-white wall
  • No shadows on the background
  • Even, natural lighting
  • No patterns or textures

Incorrect

  • Colored walls (blue, beige, gray)
  • Shadows behind the head
  • Brick, wood, or textured walls
  • Objects visible in the background

Expression and Pose

  • Face the camera directly with your head centered
  • Maintain a neutral expression or a natural smile (both eyes open)
  • Both ears should be visible
  • Do not tilt, turn, or angle your head
  • No broad grins or exaggerated expressions

Glasses and Head Coverings

Glasses Are Not Allowed

As of November 1, 2016, glasses are no longer permitted in U.S. passport photos. The only exception is if you have a signed statement from a doctor saying you cannot remove them for medical reasons.

Head coverings are only allowed for religious or medical reasons. You must include a signed statement explaining why you wear it. Your full face must be visible from the hairline to the chin and from ear to ear.

Hats, headbands, and decorative hair accessories are not allowed unless for religious or medical reasons. Wear clothing you would normally wear on a daily basis. Uniforms and camouflage clothing are prohibited.

Common Mistakes That Get Photos Rejected

1
Wrong size — too small, too large, or head size outside the 1-1 3/8 inch range
2
Wrong background — colored, textured, or shadowed backgrounds
3
Glasses — still the #1 reason for rejection
4
Smiling too broadly — a natural smile is fine, but a grin showing teeth can be rejected
5
Photo too old — must be taken within the last 6 months
6
Digital alterations — do not retouch, filter, or edit your photo
7
Wrong paper — must be photo-quality paper, not regular printer paper
8
Shadows — shadows on the face or background are not allowed

Where to Get Your Photo Taken

USPS / Post Offices

Many post offices offer passport photo services for approximately $15.

They typically know the requirements well and can ensure compliance.

Pharmacy / Retail

CVS, Walgreens, Walmart, and Costco offer passport photos.

Prices range from $13-17 for two photos.

Online Services

Take your own photo and use an online formatting service.

Cost is usually $5-8. Print at a local store or photo lab.

DIY Passport Photos

You can take your own passport photo at home if you follow the rules carefully:

  1. Use a plain white wall as your background
  2. Stand about 4 feet away from the wall to avoid shadows
  3. Have someone else take the photo (selfies are not accepted)
  4. Use a camera with good resolution (no smartphone filters)
  5. Crop the photo to exactly 2 x 2 inches with proper head sizing
  6. Print on photo-quality paper at a store or photo lab

For online passport renewals (when available), digital photos must be JPEG format, between 54KB and 10MB, at least 600 x 600 pixels, with a 1:1 aspect ratio.