💡 How-To
How to Get a Passport Photo Taken Correctly
Passport photos get rejected for tiny mistakes " — wrong size, shadows, glasses, or wrong expression. Here are the exact requirements and where to get them taken.
Passport Photo Requirements (US)
| Requirement | Specification |
|---|---|
| Size | 2 x 2 inches (51 x 51 mm) |
| Background | Plain white or off-white |
| Head position | Centered, facing camera directly |
| Expression | Neutral or slight smile (mouth closed) |
| Eyes | Open, looking directly at camera |
| Glasses | NOT allowed (since 2016) " — remove all eyewear |
| Hats/head coverings | Only for religious or medical reasons (with documentation) |
| Recency | Taken within last 6 months |
Where to Get Passport Photos
- CVS/Pharmacy: $15 " — walk-in, available at most locations
- Walgreens: $15 " — walk-in, quick service
- UPS Store: $15 " — professional quality
- Post Office: $15 " — available at many locations
- AAA: $10 " — members only, cheapest professional option
- Walmart: $8 " — cheapest in-store option
- DIY with phone: Free (but risky " — may not meet requirements)
Common Rejection Reasons
- Glasses: #1 reason for rejection " — even prescription glasses are not allowed
- Shadows: Shadow on face or background " — use even lighting
- Wrong size: Photos must be exactly 2x2 inches
- Not recent: Must be taken within last 6 months
- Head too small/large: Head must be 1-1.375 inches from chin to top
- White clothing on white background: Creates invisible shoulders
DIY passport photo tip: If taking your own photo: stand 3 feet from a white wall, use natural light from a window (no flash), keep a neutral expression, and remove all glasses. Use a free app like "Passport Photo Maker" to crop to the exact 2x2 inch size. Print at CVS or Walgreens for $0.35.
⚠️ What NOT to do:
- Don't wear glasses " — even prescription glasses will get your photo rejected
- Don't smile with teeth showing " — neutral expression only
- Don't take the photo yourself with a selfie " — wrong angle and distance
- Don't use a photo older than 6 months " — they can reject it
- Don't wear white on a white background " — wear a contrasting color
The bottom line: Get passport photos at CVS, Walgreens, or Walmart ($8-15). Remove ALL glasses, keep a neutral expression, and stand against a plain white background. Photos must be 2x2 inches, taken within 6 months. The #1 rejection reason is glasses " — remove them even if you need them.