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Photo Guide

U.S. Passport Photo Requirements

Bad photos cause more application rejections than anything else. Here are the exact specs — and the easiest ways to get a compliant photo.

The official specs

Size2 × 2 inches (51 × 51 mm)
Head size1 to 1⅜ in (25-35 mm) from chin to crown
BackgroundPlain white or off-white, no shadows
Taken withinLast 6 months
ExpressionNeutral, both eyes open, mouth closed
GlassesNot allowed (since Nov 2016)
Head coveringOnly religious/medical, with signed statement
UniformsNot allowed (except religious daily wear)

Do / Don't

Do
  • Face the camera directly, full face visible
  • Use even, shadow-free lighting
  • Wear normal everyday clothing
  • Keep hair off the face outline
  • Print on matte or glossy photo paper
Don't
  • Smile widely or show teeth
  • Wear glasses, sunglasses, or tinted lenses
  • Use filters, retouching, or beauty mode
  • Wear headphones, hats, or uniforms
  • Submit a selfie with visible arm/phone

3 ways to get a compliant photo

1. Online photo tool — cheapest & fastest

Take a photo at home against a white wall, upload it, and get a government-compliant digital file with a compliance guarantee — typically under $10 versus $15-20 at a pharmacy.

Guaranteed
Recommended Service

iVisa Passport Photos — compliance guaranteed

Upload a selfie, get a government-compliant passport photo in minutes. Automatic background removal, size check, and expert review — accepted or your money back. Digital or printed delivery.

Secure application Fast processing
Get my photo
via iVisa — official partner

2. Pharmacy / retail — $15-20

CVS, Walgreens, Walmart, and AAA all take passport photos. Reliable but pricier, and quality varies by staff training.

3. DIY print — free-ish

The State Department's own photo tool can crop your photo to spec. Risk: home printers often produce wrong color balance or paper weight — a common rejection cause.

Baby & child passport photos

Infants are the only applicants allowed to have eyes partially closed or mouth open. Lay the baby on a white sheet, photograph from above, and ensure no hands or toys are visible. No other person may appear in a child's photo.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I take a passport photo with my phone?
Yes — a modern smartphone works if you follow the rules: plain white background, even lighting, no shadows, neutral expression, camera at eye level 4-6 feet away. Use a compliance tool to crop and verify.
Can I wear glasses in my passport photo?
No — glasses of any kind (including clear lenses) are banned in U.S. passport photos since 2016. Only exception: a signed doctor's statement for medical necessity.
What size is a U.S. passport photo?
Exactly 2×2 inches (51×51 mm), with the head measuring 1 to 1⅜ inches (25-35 mm) from chin to crown. Printed on matte or glossy photo paper.
Can I smile in a passport photo?
A neutral expression or natural, slight smile is allowed — but no teeth showing, eyes fully open, facing the camera directly.
How recent must the photo be?
Taken within the last 6 months and reflecting your current appearance. Significant changes (major weight change, facial surgery, new face tattoos) require a new photo.