When applying for a U.S. passport, submitting a correctly formatted passport photo is essential. Failing to meet the official requirements can lead to application delays or rejections, making it important to get it right the first time. In this guide, we’ll cover the current passport photo standards set by the U.S. Department of State and explain how USPassport.com can assist you in obtaining a perfect, compliant passport photo.

Official U.S. Passport Photo Requirements

According to the U.S. Department of State, all passport photos must meet strict criteria. Here are the official guidelines you need to follow:

1. Photo Size and Dimensions

  • The photo must be 2 x 2 inches (51 x 51 mm).
  • The face should be between 1 and 1 3/8 inches (25-35 mm) from the bottom of the chin to the top of the head.

2. Background and Lighting

  • The background must be plain white or off-white, with no patterns or shadows.
  • The lighting should be even, with no glare or harsh reflections.

3. Appearance and Expression

  • You must have a neutral facial expression or a natural smile.
  • Both eyes should be open, and your face must be clearly visible.
  • No glasses are allowed (even if you wear them regularly) unless you have a signed medical statement.

4. Clothing and Accessories

  • Wear everyday clothing. Uniforms, costumes, or camouflage attire are not permitted.
  • No hats or head coverings are allowed, except for religious or medical reasons (with official documentation).

5. Photo Quality

  • The image must be in color (not black and white).
  • It must be high-resolution with no blurring, pixelation, or overexposure.
  • The photo should be recent (taken within the last six months).

For the complete list of requirements, visit the U.S. Department of State website.

Common Reasons Passport Photos Are Rejected

Even minor photo mistakes can lead to passport application delays. Some of the most common reasons for rejection include:

  • Incorrect size or dimensions.
  • Poor lighting or shadows on the face.
  • Smiling too widely or making an exaggerated expression.
  • Wearing glasses, hats, or headgear without proper documentation.
  • Using a low-quality printer or blurry image.‍

How we Can Help You Get It Right

At USPassport.com, we understand the importance of accuracy when it comes to passport applications. We offer expert assistance to help you meet the official photo requirements and avoid costly mistakes.

1. Professional Photo Review

  • If you have had passport photos taken yourself elsewhere, our team can review your passport photos to ensure they meet State Department's guidelines.
  • We’ll flag any issues, such as incorrect size, poor lighting, or disallowed attire, before submission.

2. Fast and Reliable In-House Photo Processing

  • Our in-house photography studio at our Sherman Oaks office is set up purely to take government-compliant passport photographs.
  • If you would like us to take your passport photos for you, give us a call (1-800-545-0000), schedule an appointment or walk-in any time. The process will take less than 5 minutes.

3. Stress-Free Passport Application

  • In addition to providing photographs, our specialists will guide you through the entire passport application process, ensuring all documents—including photos—are accurate.
  • With us preparing your application for you, you’ll have peace of mind knowing your application is in good hands.

Key Takeaways

Submitting a correct passport photo is a crucial step in the passport application process. By following the official guidelines and working with, you can avoid the frustration of application delays or rejections.

If you’d like to streamline your application, we invite you to explore our services and see how we can assist you to help you submit a flawless passport application.