US Passport Photos — Online or Printed
Choose your application method to view specific photo requirements. All specifications are based on U.S. Department of State official guidelines.
| Specification | Official requirement |
|---|---|
| Photo size | 2 × 2 inches (51 × 51 mm), square |
| Head height | 1 to 1⅜ inches (25–35 mm), chin to top of head |
| Photo age | Taken within the last 6 months |
| Background | Plain white or off-white |
| Quantity (paper) | 2 identical printed photos |
Always confirm the latest rules on the official government site before you submit.
Official pages list rules; these notes highlight mistakes we see when people crop at home before online upload or print.
- Online renewal needs one digital JPEG; mail-in usually needs two identical prints—do not mix up the paths.
- A cream or textured wall often fails even when the crop size is perfect. Retake on a plain white or off-white wall.
- Head height errors are common after phone selfies. Use a crop guide that shows chin-to-crown limits before you upload.
- Beauty filters and AI background tools are a frequent reason for delay. Prefer a clean retake over heavy editing.
Crop your photo free online
Browser-based passport photo tool — process locally on your device, no watermark on downloads.
Works in your browser. No app download required.
Can I print my own passport photo at home?
Will a home-printed photo be accepted?
What size should I print?
Can you smile in a US passport photo?
Use a neutral expression with your mouth closed. A very slight smile may pass, but a wide smile showing teeth is usually rejected.
Can you take your own passport photo?
Yes. Home and phone photos are accepted when they meet official size, background, lighting, and expression rules.
What should I wear for a passport photo?
Everyday clothing that contrasts with the background. Avoid uniforms and camouflage (except religious or daily attire). No hats unless for religious or medical reasons.
What size is a US passport photo?
2×2 inches (51×51 mm) square. Your head must measure 1 to 1⅜ inches from chin to top of head.
How do I take a passport photo at home?
Stand before a plain wall in even daylight, face the camera with a neutral expression, then crop to 2×2 with head-size guides.
Can I wear glasses?
Generally no—glare causes rejections. Glasses are only allowed with a signed medical statement.
Where can I get a digital passport photo?
Take one at home and crop it online, or ask a store for a digital copy. Online renewal needs a JPEG that meets upload size limits.
How much do passport photos cost at stores?
Walgreens and CVS typically charge about $17 for two prints. Walmart, Costco, and AAA are often less; Staples is similar to drugstores. Taking your own photo is free.
What is the new digital passport photo system?
US online renewal now scans uploads for correct 2×2 crop, head size, plain background, and face position. Filters and AI edits often fail automatically. Crop with head guides before you upload to travel.state.gov.
Is there a passport photo checker?
Yes. Our free tool includes a pre-download checklist—confirm background, expression, head size, and recency before you save your file. It is not an official government review.
Why was my passport photo rejected?
Common reasons include wrong head size, shadows, busy background, glasses glare, or heavy editing. Read the rejection message and take a new photo rather than re-editing the same file.
- • No other person visible—only the child
- • Eyes open when possible; lying-down photos are allowed for infants
- • Same head-size rules after cropping
Digital Photo Requirements:
- • High-resolution digital photo
- • Clear and in focus
- • In color
- • No computer software alterations
- • Proper lighting and background
Available formats:
- • US Passport (Online) - 2×2 inch digital
- • US Passport (Online) - High resolution
Printed Photo Requirements:
- • 2 identical printed photos required
- • 2 × 2 inches (51 × 51 mm)
- • Printed on matte or glossy photo paper
- • No creases, tears, or damage
- • Taken within last 6 months
Available format:
- • US Passport (2×2 inch)