Walk-In Passport Find an office near meNear me

Passport photo requirements

The State Department's rules for a U.S. passport photo. A photo that breaks one of these is the most common reason an application is delayed.

  1. 2 x 2 inches (51 x 51 mm); head between 1 and 1 3/8 inches (25-35 mm) from chin to top of head.
  2. One color photo taken in the last 6 months, on a white or off-white background.
  3. No filters, edits or retouching.
  4. No eyeglasses, sunglasses or tinted glasses, unless you include a signed doctor's note for a medical reason.
  5. No hats or head coverings unless worn daily for religious reasons (signed statement) or medical reasons (signed doctor's statement).
  6. No uniforms, clothing that looks like a uniform, or camouflage; remove anything covering your face unless for documented religious or medical reasons.
  7. Face the camera with a neutral expression (a closed-mouth smile is fine), both eyes open and visible.

Some acceptance facilities take passport photos on site; check the listing or call before you go. Find one near you.

Source: State Department photo requirements (page updated March 24, 2026), checked October 27, 2026.