Size and framing
The photo is 2 × 2 inches (51 × 51 mm). The head, from the bottom of the chin to the top of the head, must measure between 1 and 1⅜ inches (25 to 35 mm). The face should be centred and looking straight at the camera.
Background and quality
Plain white or off-white background with no shadows, no pattern and no objects. The photo must be in colour, sharp and not retouched or filtered.
Expression and clothing
Neutral expression or a natural smile, both eyes open. Glasses are generally not allowed. Wear what you wear every day, but no uniform.
Digital photo (online applications)
For online uploads the State Department asks for a square JPEG between 600 × 600 and 1200 × 1200 pixels and under about 240KB. Use the US passport photo maker and then the 200KB tool if you need a smaller file.
Before you submit
Taken within the last 6 months, no filters, no shadows. Always read the current rules on travel.state.gov because requirements can change.
The official specifications
| Item | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Size | 2 × 2 inches (51 × 51 mm) |
| Head size | 1 to 1⅜ inches (25 to 35 mm) from chin to top of head |
| Background | Plain white or off-white, no shadows |
| Taken | Within the last 6 months |
| Expression | Neutral, or a natural slight smile; both eyes open |
| Glasses | Not allowed in most cases (a medical statement may apply) |
| Paper | Printed on matte or glossy photo paper, no filters or retouching |
Digital photo for online applications
The online passport renewal and many other services ask for a digital photo: a square JPG, between 600×600 and 1200×1200 pixels, with a file size of about 240KB or less. Use the US passport photo maker to crop to a square, then the compressor if the file is too large. Confirm the current limits on travel.state.gov.
Checklist before you submit
- Is the photo less than 6 months old?
- Is the background plain white or off-white, with no shadow behind your head?
- Is your whole head visible, face forward, eyes open and looking at the camera?
- Is your head the right size in the frame?
- Are glasses, hats, headphones and uniforms removed?
- Is the picture sharp, with natural colours and no filters?
Common mistakes
Selfies (they distort the face), shadows from a lamp, wearing white clothes against a white wall (the head looks lost), a big smile, and phone filters such as beauty mode. Photos with red-eye or glare on glasses are also rejected.
Which forms use this photo?
The same 2×2 inch photo is used for a first passport (DS-11), renewals (DS-82), passport cards and many visa services. Always read the form instructions, because digital and printed photo rules differ.
Print copies at home
Use the print sheet maker to place several 2×2 inch copies on a 6×4 inch sheet, then print at 100 percent scale on photo paper and cut carefully. See how to print passport photos at home.
Questions
What size is a US passport photo?
2 × 2 inches (51 × 51 mm), with the head between 1 and 1⅜ inches tall.
Can I wear glasses in a US passport photo?
In most cases no. Glasses are generally not allowed, although a signed medical statement may apply in special cases.
Can I take my own US passport photo?
Yes, if it meets the rules. Use a plain white background, even light and a neutral expression, and do not use filters.
How old can a US passport photo be?
It should have been taken within the last 6 months.
Does PicFitter guarantee acceptance?
No. Check the official State Department requirements; this tool only helps with the crop and size.