Although the majority of people choose to go to a professional studio for a passport photograph, many AAA branches offer a good alternative option seeing as their photo services are more affordable.
In this article you will learn more about the AAA passport photo service, as well as about a number of alternative options. The best alternative that we recommend is Smartphone iD – an app designed to help you take your passport photo from the comfort of your own home .
Last update: 7/16/2024
Does AAA take passport photo?
Yes, AAA does take passport photos at many of their locations! There is no appointment necessary and the photos are guaranteed to meet U.S. Passport and Immigration Services requirements.
Here are some things to keep in mind:
- There is a fee for passport photos, but AAA Plus and Premier members receive free photos (with some limitations).
- Not all AAA offices offer this service, so it’s best to call your local branch to confirm before you go.
Do all AAA branches take passport photos?
No, not all AAA locations take passport photos. While it is a common service offered, it’s not guaranteed at every branch.
Here’s what you can do to find out for sure:
- Call your local AAA branch: This is the most direct way to confirm if they offer passport photo services.
- Use the AAA branch locator on their website to find a branch near you: https://branches.northeast.aaa.com/
AAA passport photos near me
To find an AAA branch that offers passport photo services near you, visit the AAA website 🙁https://northeast.aaa.com/membership/benefits/passport-photos.html) and enter your zip code or city and state. The website will display a list of nearby AAA locations, along with information about the services they provide, including passport photos.
Does AAA take digital passport photos?
AAA itself doesn’t take digital passport photos, but it can provide you with a digital copy of your printed passport photos for an additional fee. The usual cost is around $6 depending on your AAA membership level.s.
Here’s a breakdown of AAA’s service:
- They will take two printed passport photos that meet US official specifications
- You can request a digital copy of the photos for an extra fee via email.
In short, AAA provides printed passport photos, but you can get a digital copy of those photos for a fee.
Does AAA process passport applications?
While AAA does offer passport photo services, they do not process passport applications. To apply for a passport, you will need to visit a designated passport acceptance facility, such as a post office, courthouse, or library. These facilities are authorized by the U.S. Department of State to accept passport applications and forward them for processing.
However, some AAA branches may host passport events in partnership with the U.S. Postal Service. During these events, you can apply for a passport, get your passport photo taken, and submit your application all in one place. Check with your local AAA branch to see if they offer this service.
AAA Passport Photo Costs
The standard AAA passport photograph fee for 2 United States passport-sized photographs (2 x 2 inches each) is $16. That being said, you can become a member of AAA in order to qualify for a discount.
Basic plan AAA members only have to pay $12 for their passport photographs.
To get a second set of photos costs $6 regardless of whether you’re a member or a non-member.
Digital photo cost is $6 via email.
High level members benefit from additional perks including:
- Plus level members: Qualify for one free set of passport photos per year
- Premier level members: Qualify for four free sets of passport photographs per household per year
AAA Working Hours
It’s always a good idea to double check the opening hours of your local AAA before heading in store. Most AAA’s are open between 9 am and 18.00 pm. However if you don’t have the time to visit your closest AAA or can’t find one near you, you can always use the handy app, Smartphone iD. With Smartphone iD you can select the American template and you will be guided to taking the perfect passport photo that you can be proud of for years to come.
What to Remember While Taking an AAA Passport Photo?
If you use Smartphone iD to take your photos you don’t need to worry about the requirements like the size of the photograph. That being said regardless of where you take your photo there are some mandatory rules that need to be adhered to. These are mainly to do with facial expression, clothing and pose but keep reading to learn more.
AAA Passport Photo Requirements
- Off-white or plain white background
- Neutral facial expression – no smiling
- No extravagant clothing or uniforms
- The face must be completely visible in the photograph
- Jewelry may not obscure facial characteristics
- No glasses or headphones on in the photograph
Alternative Places to Have Your Passport Photo Taken
If by any chance the AAA branches close to you do not offer passport photo services, you can look to other locations, including:
- Smartphone iD (Best alternative, see more below)
- Photography studios and stores with professional photographers
- Big retail stores, including Walmart and Target
- Passport offices in your town
- Pharmacies such as Walgreens and CVS
- Delivery Companies, including UPS, FedEx, USPS, Rite Aid and PostalAnnex
Best Alternative to AAA Passport Photo Service- Smartphone iD
If you’re in need of a great alternative to AAA passport photo services, why not take your photograph from the comfort of your own home? Smartphone iD is an incredible app designed to help you and your loved ones take compliant photos at home in just a few easy steps. The app is programmed with the dimensions of all countries for official verified photographs.
With Smartphone iD, you can have as many takes as you need, maximizing your chances of taking the perfect passport photo. The app also saves energy and time because you don’t need to go instore.
Furthermore, unlike with AAA, if you use Smartphone iD, you will receive your photograph in digital format and it can be used an unlimited number of times. What’s more is that the correct template can be ordered by post or printed any time. Finally, Smartphone iD only costs $4, making it a high quality and affordable option!
With Smartphone iD, you no longer need to
- Struggle with unreliable passport photo apps
- Adjust or modify the photograph yourself
- Overspend on two tiny photographs
- Waste fuel and time travelling instore
- Think about opening hours – our app works 24/7
Sources
https://northeast.aaa.com/membership/benefits/passport-photos.html
https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/passports/how-apply/photos.html
