2026 US Passport Photo Requirements

Avoid application delays by ensuring your photo meets every official Department of State standard.

The Golden Rule for 2026

The most common reason for passport processing delays is an invalid photo. Your photo must be an exact representation of how you look right now. It must be unaltered, high-resolution, and printed on photo-quality paper.

Photo Basics

✓ Size & Dimensions

  • Total Size: 2 x 2 inches (51 x 51 mm) exactly.
  • Head Size: Head must measure between 1 inch and 1 3/8 inches (25-35 mm) from chin to top of head.
  • Centering: Head must be vertically centered.

✓ Quality & Color

  • Color Only: Black and white photos are not accepted.
  • Resolution: High resolution, not blurry, grainy, or pixelated.
  • Paper: Matte or glossy photo-quality paper.
  • Condition: No holes, creases, or smudges.

Pose & Expression

We recommend a neutral facial expression with both eyes open and mouth closed. While a natural smile is technically permitted, it is safer to maintain a neutral expression to ensure biometric facial recognition software works correctly.

  • Face the camera directly (full face view).
  • No tilting of the head.
  • Eyes completely open and visible.
  • No hair covering the eyes or eyebrows.

Attire & Prohibited Items

Strictly Prohibited 🚫

  • Eyeglasses: Even daily prescription glasses must be removed. Use contact lenses or go without. *Only exception: Signed doctor's note for medical necessity.*
  • Uniforms: No uniforms, clothing that looks like a uniform, or camouflage attire.
  • Head Coverings: Hats and head coverings are not allowed.
  • Headphones: No wireless hands-free devices or headphones.

What to Wear ✅

  • Everyday Street Wear: Wear what you normally wear on a daily basis.
  • Darker Colors: It is often better to wear a color that contrasts with the white background (avoid white shirts).
  • Religious/Medical Attire: If you wear a hat or head covering daily for religious or medical purposes, you may wear it, but you must submit a signed statement verifying its daily use.

No AI or Filters

Do not use social media filters, AI generation, or photo retouching apps.

The Department of State explicitly prohibits digitally altering photos to remove red-eye, change the background, or smooth skin. Such alterations alter your biometric data and will result in immediate rejection.

Infants & Children

Taking photos of infants can be challenging. Here are the official allowances:

  • Eyes: It is acceptable if an infant's eyes are not completely open (unlike adults).
  • No Other People: No hands, arms, or other people can be visible in the photo.
  • Tip: Lay the baby on their back on a plain white sheet. Ensure no shadows are cast on their face.

Ready to Apply?

Once you have your verified photo, proceed to our Expedited Passport guide to get your travel documents as fast as possible.

View Expedited Options