US Passport Photo Requirements 2026: Complete Guide
Current US Passport Photo Specifications
The US Department of State requires passport photos measuring exactly 2x2 inches (51x51mm) with a plain white background. The head must measure between 1 inch and 1-3/8 inches (25-35mm) from the bottom of the chin to the top of the head, which corresponds to a head-to-frame ratio of 50-69 percent. This is notably smaller than the 70-80 percent required by most other countries, meaning US passport photos show more shoulder and background area. The photo must be in color with natural skin tones, taken within the last 6 months, and show the applicant in their current everyday appearance. Eyeglasses have been prohibited since November 2016. Expression must be neutral with both eyes open and mouth closed. The photo must be correctly exposed with no shadows on the face or background.
Digital vs Print Requirements
For online passport renewals (Form DS-82 online), you must upload a digital photo meeting specific technical requirements: 600x600 to 1200x1200 pixels in JPEG format, file size between 240 KB and the portal maximum, in sRGB color space. The State Department provides a free online photo tool that checks your digital photo for compliance before submission. For in-person and mail-in applications (Forms DS-11 and DS-82 paper), you must submit two identical printed photos at exactly 2x2 inches on photo-quality paper. The printed photos should be attached to the application with staples, not glue, and should not be bent or creased. Photos can be printed at home, at retail locations, or at professional studios.
Where to Get US Passport Photos
Several national retail chains offer passport photo services: CVS, Walgreens, Walmart, Costco, and Rite Aid all provide US passport photos with compliance guarantees. Prices typically range from 10 to 15 USD for two prints. USPS post offices also offer passport photo services at many locations. Professional photo studios offer higher quality with more controlled lighting but at higher prices. For the most economical option, take the photo at home using a smartphone and our Passport Photo Tools editor to ensure correct sizing and positioning, then print at home or at a retail photo kiosk. When using a retail service, verify the prints meet the 2x2 inch size requirement with a ruler before leaving the store.
Special Cases: Infants, Medical Exceptions, Religious Coverings
Infant passport photos follow the same 2x2 inch specification but with relaxed expression requirements: babies may have their eyes closed or partially open, and a non-neutral expression is acceptable. The baby must be the only person visible in the photo. For applicants who cannot remove eyeglasses due to medical conditions, a signed medical statement from a doctor must accompany the application. Religious head coverings are permitted only when worn daily as a part of religious practice, and a signed statement confirming this must be included with the application. The covering must not cast any shadow on the face, and the full face from hairline to chin must be visible. Active military personnel may wear a uniform but must not wear a hat or helmet.
Common US Passport Photo Rejection Reasons
The State Department's automated and manual review systems reject photos for specific reasons that can be avoided with preparation. The top rejection reasons are: wearing eyeglasses, shadows on the face or background, head size outside the 50-69 percent range, overexposure or underexposure affecting facial detail, photo older than 6 months, incorrect dimensions deviating from the 2x2 inch square, a non-neutral expression including slight smiles, digital alteration or filters applied to the image, and hair or accessories obscuring the face. The State Department's free online photo checking tool is the definitive compliance verification for digital submissions. For printed photos, use a ruler to verify exact 2x2 inch dimensions and visually check for even lighting and a clean white background before submitting.
Prêt à créer votre photo de passeport ?
Utilisez notre outil en ligne gratuit pour créer des photos de passeport conformes pour tout pays.
Ouvrir l'éditeur