US Passport Photo Specifications

US Passport Photo Size Diagram

Detailed US Passport Photo Requirements

The US Department of State has strict requirements for passport photos. Below is a comprehensive guide to ensure your photo is accepted.

Photo Basics

• Your photo must be in color — black and white photos are not accepted
• Must be a recent photo, taken within the last 6 months
• The photo must be clear and in focus, with no blurriness or pixelation
• No filters or editing — do not apply social media filters or digitally alter your appearance
• Must reflect your current appearance

Size and Dimensions

• Photo size: exactly 2 × 2 inches (51 × 51 mm)
• Your head (from the bottom of the chin to the top of the head) must measure between 1 inch and 1⅜ inches (25–35 mm)
• Your eyes must be located between 1⅛ inches and 1⅜ inches (28–35 mm) from the bottom of the photo
• Printed on matte or glossy photo-quality paper

Pose and Expression

• Face the camera directly — your head must not be tilted or turned
• Maintain a neutral facial expression or a natural smile
• Both eyes must be open and clearly visible
• Keep your mouth closed — no smiling with teeth showing
• Ensure your face is fully visible from the bottom of your chin to the top of your forehead, and ear to ear

Background

• Use a plain white or off-white background
• No patterns, textures, or objects visible behind you
• No shadows on your face or behind your head
• Sufficient contrast between your face and the background

Glasses

Glasses are NOT allowed in US passport photos (effective November 1, 2016). This applies even if you wear glasses daily. The only exception is a signed statement from your doctor explaining a medical reason why you cannot remove them.

Head Coverings and Hats

• No hats or head coverings are allowed, unless worn daily for religious purposes
• If worn for religious reasons, your full face must still be visible from the bottom of your chin to the top of your forehead
• Your facial features from the chin to the top of the forehead and both sides of the face must be clearly visible
• No headphones, earbuds, or wireless hands-free devices

Clothing

• Wear normal everyday clothing
• Do not wear uniforms, except religious clothing worn daily
• Avoid wearing white or very light-colored tops that may blend with the white background
• Camouflage clothing is not permitted

Children and Baby Photos

• The child must be the only person in the photo — no parent's hands or arms visible
• The child's eyes must be open and visible (for children under 1, one or both eyes may be partially closed)
• No toys, pacifiers, or other objects visible in the photo
• A plain white or off-white sheet may be used as a background for babies
• The photo must show the child's full face from chin to top of head

Source: US Department of State — Passport Photo Requirements

How to Take a US Passport Photo at Home

You don't need a professional studio. Follow these simple steps to take a compliant US passport photo at home using your smartphone.

1

Use a Smartphone or Digital Camera

Any modern smartphone camera (iPhone, Samsung Galaxy, Google Pixel, etc.) is more than capable of taking a passport-quality photo. Make sure the lens is clean and the camera is set to the highest resolution.

Place your phone on a tripod or ask someone to take the photo for you. Selfies tend to have the wrong angle and distortion.

2

Find Good Lighting

Stand facing a window with natural daylight for the best even lighting. Avoid direct sunlight, which creates harsh shadows. If using indoor lighting, use multiple light sources from different angles to eliminate shadows.

Tip: Don't worry if your background isn't perfectly white. Our AI tool will automatically remove and replace the background with the required white color.

3

Dress Appropriately

Wear your normal everyday clothing. Avoid uniforms and white tops that blend with the background. If you wear religious head coverings daily, you may keep them on as long as your full face is visible.

Make sure your hair does not cover your eyes or cast shadows on your face.

4

Pose Correctly

Stand about 4 feet (1.2 meters) in front of the camera with your head facing directly forward. Keep your shoulders relaxed and your head level — not tilted. Ensure your entire face from chin to forehead is visible.

5

Maintain a Neutral Expression

Keep your face relaxed with a neutral expression. Both eyes must be open and your mouth closed. You may have a very slight, natural smile — but no teeth showing and no squinting.

Good and Bad Examples of US Passport Photos

Comparison of acceptable and unacceptable passport photos

Frequently Asked Questions