If you’re applying for a US passport, the photo requirements are strict — but straightforward once you know the rules. This guide covers every requirement from the US State Department, plus how to take a compliant photo at home in minutes.
Quick summary: US passport photo requirements
- Size: 2×2 inches (51×51mm)
- Digital resolution: 600×600 pixels minimum at 300 DPI
- Background: Plain white or off-white
- Face height: 50–69% of total image height (about 1–1⅜ inches)
- Expression: Neutral, mouth closed
- Eyes: Open, visible, looking directly at camera
- Glasses: NOT permitted (banned since 2016)
- Head coverings: Not permitted except for religious reasons
- Photo age: Taken within 6 months
- Format: JPEG or high-quality print
Detailed requirements
Size and format
US passports require a 2×2 inch (51×51mm) square photo. For digital submissions:
- Minimum 600×600 pixels
- Maximum 1200×1200 pixels
- Color photo (not black and white)
- JPEG format for digital uploads
Face requirements
Your face must:
- Occupy 50 to 69% of the image height (measured from chin to crown of head)
- Be directly facing the camera — no side profiles or angled shots
- Have both eyes open and clearly visible
- Show a neutral expression — a natural smile with your mouth closed is acceptable; showing teeth is generally not
Background
- Must be plain white or off-white (cream, very light gray acceptable)
- No patterns, textures, or objects in the background
- No shadows on the background behind you
- Must be well-lit and distinct from your face
Lighting
- Even lighting across your face — no shadows on one side
- No harsh shadows cast on background
- No glare or red-eye
- No harsh flash directly at face
What’s NOT allowed
- Glasses (banned since 2016 for US passports)
- Hats or head coverings (unless for religious reasons, with documentation)
- Headphones, headsets, or wireless devices
- Uniforms (except religious)
- Other people or objects in frame
- Digitally altered or filtered photos
Where to submit your US passport photo
In-person application
Print your 2×2 photo and bring it to:
- A US Passport Acceptance Facility
- Passport agency (for urgent travel)
- Certain post offices
Online renewal (passportrenew.state.gov)
The State Department launched online passport renewal for eligible adults. You’ll upload a digital photo meeting these specs:
- JPEG file
- 600×1200 pixels
- White background
- Taken within 6 months
Taking your photo with PassportSnap
PassportSnap is built around the US State Department specification as the default:
- Open PassportSnap and ensure United States is selected
- Use the guided camera to position your face in the oval
- The app verifies the 50–69% face height and white background
- Export the 600×600 pixel JPEG or the 4×6 print layout
The 4×6 print layout includes 2 copies of your 2×2 photo (the standard requirement for paper applications) with cut guides — perfect for printing at Walgreens, CVS, or Walmart Photo.
Common rejection reasons (and how to avoid them)
| Rejection reason | How to avoid |
|---|---|
| Face too small | Zoom camera closer, or let PassportSnap auto-crop |
| Background not white | Stand against a white wall |
| Shadows on background | Move away from the wall; use indirect natural light |
| Photo too old | Take a fresh photo with PassportSnap |
| Glasses visible | Remove them before shooting |
| Eyes closed or partially closed | Take multiple shots; PassportSnap detects eye openness |
Frequently asked questions
Q: Can I smile in my US passport photo?
A natural, closed-mouth expression is generally acceptable. A big, teeth-showing smile is not recommended as it may distort your facial features. The requirement is “neutral expression.”
Q: Can I wear makeup in my passport photo?
Yes. Everyday makeup is acceptable as long as it doesn’t significantly alter your appearance.
Q: Do I need to print 2 photos?
For in-person passport applications, yes — you’ll need 2 identical photos. PassportSnap’s 4×6 print layout includes 2 copies for exactly this reason.
Q: How recent does my passport photo need to be?
Your passport photo must have been taken within the past 6 months.
Q: Can I use a photo taken on my phone?
Yes, as long as it meets all the specifications above. The PassportSnap app ensures your phone photo meets all US State Department requirements.