United States passport photo requirements
| Photo size | 2 × 2 in (51 × 51 mm) |
|---|---|
| Head height (chin to top of hair) | 25–35 mm |
| Background | white or off-white |
| Glasses | not allowed (signed doctor's note for medical exception) |
| Digital file | max 10 MB · min 54 KB |
| Taking it yourself | Allowed |
2x2 in, head 1 to 1-3/8 in chin to top of hair; taken within 6 months, no filters/AI edits. Online renewal upload accepts 54 KB-10 MB, no pixel spec stated.
Source: official guidance. Rules change; confirm with the issuing authority before you submit.
Tips for a photo that passes
- Face the camera straight on with a neutral expression, mouth closed and both eyes open.
- Stand about 50 cm (20 in) in front of a plain wall and face a window for soft, even light, so there are no shadows on your face or behind you.
- Have someone else take the photo at eye level from about 1.2 m (4 ft), rather than a close-up selfie that distorts features.
- Take off your glasses. No hats or head coverings unless worn daily for religious or medical reasons.
- Keep hair away from your eyes and make sure the top of your head and your chin are both visible.
How to make your United States Passport photo here
- Upload or take a photo using the tool above.
- We detect your face, scale your head to 25–35 mm, center it and replace the background with white or off-white.
- Check the green guide lines, fine-tune if needed, and download your digital file and 4×6 print sheet.