Only one passport photo is required when applying for most passport services, especially a new passport or a passport renewal. However, this photo needs to perfectly adhere to the U.S. Department of State's guidelines. Your application will be denied or delayed significantly if your photo does not meet all of the requirements.
In fact, problems with pictures is one of the main reasons passport application delays occur. It could be that the photos are not the right dimensions or the quality is not high enough. In other cases, the applicant does not follow the guidelines for the correct background or what to wear.
It is important that you familiarize yourself with the guidelines below and read through the frequently asked questions to guarantee that your passport photos meet the requirements.
IMPORTANT NOTE: glasses are no longer allowed in passport photos.
What type of paper are the photographs to be printed on?
The photos should be printed on thin photo-quality paper.
Can hats or religious headgear be worn for the passport photo?
Unless worn daily for religious reasons, all hats or headgear should be removed for the photo. In all cases, no item or attire should cover or otherwise obscure any part of the face.
Can work uniforms be worn for the passport photo?
Uniforms should not be worn in photographs except in the case of religious attire that is worn daily. Otherwise, normal street attire should be worn.
Can eyeglasses be worn for the passport photo?
Eyeglasses are no longer allowed in passport photos.
Can sunglasses or tinted glasses be worn for the passport photo?
Dark glasses or nonprescription glasses with tinted lenses are not acceptable unless you need them for medical reasons. A medical certificate may be required.
Can a parent or guardian appear in the passport photo of a minor child?
No, the minor child must be the only subject in the photo. Nothing used to support the minor child, whether by mechanical or human means, should be in the camera's frame.
Are photos that are copied from recent driver licenses or other official documents acceptable?
No, only original photographs are acceptable. Copied or digitally scanned photos of photos will not be accepted. In addition, photos must not be retouched to alter the applicant's appearance in any way.
May photos be taken with a digital camera or cell phone?
Yes, a digital camera or cell phone can be used to take your passport photo. You can also print the image at home. However, the image-quality criteria described on this website must be met. For more information, visit Passport Photos with a Digital Camera.
1. How can you get a passport when you're in a hurry?
2. What exactly does a passport expediter do?
3. Are passport expediting services legitimate?
4. How can I identify a reliable passport expeditor?
5. Is expedited passport service worth it? Get answers to these questions and more in our Ultimate U.S. Traveler's Guide to Passport Expediters. You can also visit our library of articles about passport expediting.
About the Author: For over 20 years, the U.S. Passport Service Guide team has helped hundreds of thousands of travelers with their travel document questions and shared advice about how to make traveling abroad simpler, safer, and more enjoyable.
