Only
one passport photo is required when applying for most passport
services, especially a new passport or a passport renewal. However, this photo needs to perfectly adhere to the U.S. Department of State's guidelines. Your application will be denied or
delayed significantly if your photo does not meet all of the requirements.
In fact, problems with pictures is one of the main reasons passport application delays occur. It could be that the photos are not the right dimensions or the quality is not high enough. In other cases, the applicant does not follow the guidelines for the correct background or what to wear.
It is important that you familiarize yourself with the guidelines below and read through the frequently asked questions to guarantee that your passport photos meet the requirements.
IMPORTANT NOTE: glasses are no longer allowed in passport photos.
Passport Photo Requirements
- U.S. passport photo size is 2x2 inches
- Between 1 inch and 1 3/8 inches from the bottom of the chin to the top of the head
- Taken within the past 6 months, showing current appearance
- Color (NOTE: Black and white photos are no longer accepted.)
- Plain white or off-white background
- Printed in either matte or glossy quality photo paper
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Passport Photo Do's
- Face the camera directly, showing a full face
- Have a neutral facial expression
- Keep both eyes open
- Wear normal attire
- Reproduce skin tones accurately
- Verify that all requirements are met before sending your photo
Passport Photo Don'ts
- Don't take a selfie
- Don't wear glasses
- Don't wear a uniform
- Don't use a colored background
- Don't allow shadows
- Don't apply image filters
- Don't digitally edit your photo
- Don't allow another person in the photo
- Don't send a damaged (holes, creases, or smudges) photo
- Don't send a blurry, grainy, or pixelated photo
Passport Photo FAQ
What type of paper are the photographs to be printed on?
The photos should be printed on thin photo-quality paper.
Can hats or religious headgear be worn for the passport photo?
Unless
worn daily for religious reasons, all hats or headgear should be
removed for the photo. In all cases, no item or attire should cover or
otherwise obscure any part of the face.
Can work uniforms be worn for the passport photo?
Uniforms
should not be worn in photographs except in the case of religious
attire that is worn daily. Otherwise, normal street attire should be
worn.
Can eyeglasses be worn for the passport photo?
Eyeglasses
are no longer allowed in passport photos.
Can sunglasses or tinted glasses be worn for the passport photo?
Dark
glasses or nonprescription glasses with tinted lenses are not
acceptable unless you need them for medical reasons. A medical
certificate may be required.
Can a parent or guardian appear in the passport photo of a minor child?
No,
the minor child must be the only subject in the photo. Nothing used to
support the minor child, whether by mechanical or human means, should
be in the camera's frame.
Are photos that are copied from recent driver licenses or other official documents acceptable?
No,
only original photographs are acceptable. Copied or digitally scanned
photos of photos will not be accepted. In addition, photos must not be
retouched to alter the applicant's appearance in any way.
May photos be taken with a digital camera or cell phone?
Yes, a digital camera or cell phone can be used to
take your passport photo. You can also print the image at home. However, the image-quality criteria
described on this website must be met. For more
information, visit Passport Photos with a Digital Camera.
More Passport Photo Information
- Where to Get a Passport Photo
- 9 Things That Can Get Your Passport Photo Rejected
- What To Wear For A Passport Photo: How To Balance Style And Compliance
- 4 Things You Can't Wear When Taking Passport Photos
- Taking passport photos with a digital camera.
- Make Your Own Passport Photo with Free Online Tool
Top 5 Questions About Expedited Passport Couriers
2. What exactly does a passport expediter do?
3. Are passport expediting services legitimate?
4. How can I identify a reliable passport expeditor?
5. Is expedited passport service worth it? Get answers to these questions and more in our Ultimate U.S. Traveler's Guide to Passport Expediters.
You can also visit our library of articles about passport expediting.