Can I create a US passport photo online?

Yes. You can upload a phone picture, crop it to the US 2x2 passport photo format, and download a digital file or a print-ready 4x6 sheet. Always check the final photo against current US Department of State requirements before submitting it.

Can I use the digital photo for online passport renewal?

Use a digital photo only if you are eligible for online renewal and the file meets the upload rules. The image should be recent, in color, unfiltered, and saved as a JPG, PNG, HEIC, or HEIF file within the State Department size limits.

Where can I print a 2x2 passport photo in the US?

You can print a prepared 4x6 sheet at many photo counters or labs, including CVS, Walgreens, Walmart, Target, and FedEx Office where available. Keep the full 4x6 sheet visible in the checkout preview so the 2x2 photos are not cropped or resized.

What are the main US passport photo requirements?

A printed US passport photo must be 2x2 inches, in color, recent, taken on a plain white or off-white background, and show a clear front view of your face. Glasses are generally not allowed unless you have a medical exception.

Can I take a baby passport photo at home?

Yes. Place the baby safely on a plain white or off-white sheet, keep the camera straight above the face, and make sure the child's eyes are open if possible. Do not use hands, toys, shadows, or filters in the final image.

What happens if my generated photo is rejected?

If an authority rejects a compliant photo generated with Passport-Selfie, contact customer service so the team can review the case and help resolve the issue.

2x2 Passport Photos Online in the USA

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. For a focused upload checklist, see the online passport renewal photo guide.

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.