Passport photo requirements, USA
When preparing passport photos in the United States, it's essential to follow the official guidelines from the US Department of State. Below, you'll find a concise summary of these requirements:
- Your passport photo should be in full color, accurately reflecting your natural skin tones.
- The photo's dimensions must be 2 inches by 2 inches (2x2 inches or 5.1x5.1 centimeters).
- Ensure that your head is centered within the frame, measuring between 1 inch and 1 3/8 inches (25-35mm) from the bottom of your chin to the top of your head.
- Choose a background that is plain white or off-white, free from any patterns or shadows.
- Keep a neutral expression or a natural smile, with both eyes open and directly facing the camera, while keeping your mouth closed.
- Note: Eyeglasses are generally not allowed, except for medical reasons.
- Head coverings are permitted solely for religious or medical reasons, as long as your entire face is visible from the bottom of your chin to the top of your forehead.
- Avoid wearing uniforms, clothing resembling uniforms, or camouflage attire in your photo.
Digital passport photo for online renewal
If you are renewing a US passport online, start with a digital photo rather than scanning or photographing a printed passport picture. The US Department of State says online renewal photos must be recent, in color, free of filters or retouching, and uploaded as a JPG, PNG, HEIC, or HEIF file between 54 KB and 10 MB.
For the best result, have someone else take the photo, stand several feet from a plain white or off-white wall, keep your shoulders visible at the bottom of the frame, and avoid sending the file through text messages because compression can reduce quality. The online renewal portal may let you crop the photo, but an employee still reviews it after submission.
Print your passport photo after creating it online
If you want printed copies without paying full-service pharmacy passport photo prices, create a 4x6 print-ready sheet first and order it as a standard photo print. The safest workflow is to keep the full 4x6 file visible in the checkout preview and avoid any automatic crop, zoom, border, or fit-to-frame change.
Start with the complete 4x6 passport photo printing guide, or use the CVS and Walgreens guides if you already know where you want to print.
Sources and last review
Last reviewed: May 10, 2026. Passport photo rules and retailer services can change, so verify official requirements before submitting your application.
- US Department of State passport photo requirements
- US Department of State digital photo upload guidance
- Retail prices, pickup availability, and kiosk behavior may vary by location and promotion.






