If you want to take a digital passport photo from the comfort of your own home (while still meeting all of the government’s requirements), instead of waiting in long lines and wasting precious time, then this article is for you.
Last update:2/28/2025
What is a U.S. digital passport photo and when is it needed for U.S. documents?
A U.S. digital passport photo is an electronic image that meets the specific requirements set by the U.S. Department of State for passport applications and renewals. This type of photo is required for individuals who choose to renew their passports online through the MyTravelGov portal.
To be accepted, your digital passport photo must meet the following criteria:
- Resolution: At least 600 x 600 pixels
- Color: Must be in color; black and white photos are not accepted
- Format: Must be in JPEG file format
- Size: Must be at least 54 kilobytes and no more than 10 megabytes
- Compression: The compression ratio must be less than or equal to 20:1
Requirements for US Digital Passport Photo?
There are a number of rules for taking your own digital passport photo from home, including that you may not smile and must maintain a neutral facial expression. By familiarizing yourself with the guidelines you will successfully be able to take your own picture using just a smartphone.
The rules for digital passport photos
- No smiling
- Shadows on the face are not allowed
- No spectacles
- Cannot be shirtless
- No uniform (including camouflage attire)
- Must have a plain white or off-white background
- No hats or head coverings (there are some exceptions for religious or medical reasons)
- Earbuds or headphones are not allowed
- Jewelry in the way of the face is not allowed
- No clothing that matches the background
Technical Specifications
| File size | The photograph should be a minimum of 54 kilobytes and no larger than 10 megabytes. |
| Dimensions | Dimensions – a minimum of 600 by 600 pixels and no more than 1200 by 1200 pixels |
| File format | Your photograph should be in JPEG file format. |
| Resolution & Quality | The photograph must be in full color at 24 bits per pixel. It must be in sRGB color space (common output for digital cameras). |
How Does the Government’s Photo Tool Work?
If you are sure that your photo is in line with the ICAO standards (no shadows on the face, correct background, and lighting, etc), you can use the official government tool to crop your photo yourself. After you have uploaded your photo, which you can only do if it is the right format, the official government photo tool will:
- Crop and Size using the tool
- Click “Accept and Proceed”
- Click “Download Image to Device”
Also, there is no human or even automated software to verify the photograph with this tool, meaning that it could get rejected later on in the process. Basically, If the tool rejects your photo for whichever reason, a message with an explanation will appear.
Comment télécharger une photo d’identité numérique ?
Lors du renouvellement de votre passeport en ligne, vous devez télécharger une photo numérique dans l’outil photo dans le cadre du processus de demande. Pour ce faire, suivez ces étapes :
- Capture a compliant photo
- Have someone else take your photo; selfies are not accepted.
- Ensure the photo is in color, taken within the last six months, and has a plain white or off-white background.
- Do not scan a printed photo.
- Have someone else take your photo; selfies are not accepted.
- Check photo specifications
- The image must be in JPEG format.
- Dimensions should be at least 600 x 600 pixels.
- The file size should be between 54 kilobytes and 10 megabytes.
- Prepare the image for upload
- Use the highest quality settings on your camera to ensure a sharp and clear image.
- Do not edit or alter the photo using software or mobile apps, as this can cause compression or distortion.
- Upload the photo
- During the online passport renewal application, select your compliant JPEG file from your device and upload it as prompted.
- Ensure there’s enough space around your head and shoulders to allow the system to properly crop the image.
- During the online passport renewal application, select your compliant JPEG file from your device and upload it as prompted.
- Photo tool verification
- The tool will perform an initial quality check of your photo.
- If your photo does not pass, a message box will appear explaining the reasons why it was rejected.
- If your photo passes the first check, a confirmation message will appear stating that your photo has been saved and will be reviewed along with your application.
- The tool will perform an initial quality check of your photo.
- Final approval
- After you submit your application, a passport office employee will review your photo.
- If a new photo is required, you will receive an email with instructions on how to submit a replacement.
- After you submit your application, a passport office employee will review your photo.
Pro tip
If you’re unsure whether your photo meets the requirements, use our online passport photo tool to verify compliance. Our service will generate a 2×2 digital photo that’s ready for upload in just minutes, sent directly to your email.
Find examples here
Top US Examples of Rejected Passport Photos
Bonus
Follow these steps to successfully renew your passport online and track your application status:
- Confirm you meet the requirements – Ensure you are eligible for online renewal, including having a valid passport that is undamaged and issued within the last 15 years.
- Create your account – Register on the MyTravelGov portal to access the online renewal system.
- Start your application – Provide your personal details as required in the online form.
- Enter your most recent passport info – Input the details of your current passport, including issue and expiration dates.
- Enter travel plans – If you have upcoming travel, provide your departure details to determine if expedited processing is needed.
- Upload a digital photo – Use a compliant passport photo that meets the U.S. State Department’s requirements (you can use our online passport photo tool to ensure compliance).
- Sign and pay – Electronically sign your application and pay the renewal fee using a debit or credit card.
- Enroll in email updates – Subscribe to email notifications to receive updates on your application status and expected processing time.
Where can I get a digital passport photo in the USA?
Obtaining a digital passport photo is required for various U.S. documents, including passport applications and renewals. Here are several options:
Professional photographers
Professional photography studios offer high-quality digital passport photos that meet U.S. Department of State requirements. Here are five common studios across the U.S.:
- Calagaz Photo and Digital Imaging
- Location: 90 Springdale Blvd, Mobile, AL 36606
- Price: $16.99 for two identical passport photos
- Note: Photos are ready in minutes.
- Karen Vaisman Photography
- Location: 5624 Silver Valley Ave, Agoura Hills, CA 91301
- Price: Contact for pricing
- Note: Studio-quality passport photos.
- PostNet
- Locations:
- 60 Chelsea Corners, Chelsea, AL 35043
- 3327 N Eagle Rd#110, Meridian, ID 83646
- 13303 W Maple St, Ste 139, Wichita, KS 67235
- Price: Varies by location
- Note: Offers high-quality passport photo services.
- Locations:
- Staples
- Locations:
- 1036 Highway 72 East Athens, AL 35611
- 128 Sunset Blvd New Castle, DE 19720
- 2321 Sir Barton Way Suite 140, Lexington, KY 40509
- Price: $24.99 for two passport photos
- Note: Photos are ready in 10 minutes.
- Locations:
- FedEx Office
- Locations:
- 1200 Brickell Ave, Miami, FL 33131
- 1111 Bagby St, Houston, TX 77002
- 250 Broadway, New York, NY 10007
- Price: $14.95 for two passport photos
- Note: No appointment necessary; photos available in minutes.
- Locations:
Retail pharmacies
Several retail pharmacies provide passport photo services, often including a digital copy:
- Walgreens
- Locations:
- 711 Third Ave, New York, NY 10017
- 617 W 7th St, Los Angeles, CA 90017
- 1625 W Sunset Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90026
- Price: $16.99 for two printed photos
- Digital copy: Free digital copy sent via email upon request
- Note: No appointment needed; photos ready in minutes.
- Locations:
- CVS
- Locations:
- 510 C St, San Diego, CA 92101
- 241 W 57th St, New York, NY 10019
- 170 SE 3rd Ave, Miami, FL 33131, United States
- Price: $16.99 for two printed photos
- Digital copy: Available for an additional $3.99
- Note: Walk-ins welcome; photos typically ready in minutes.
- Locations:
Pro tip
If you already have a digital passport photo and need physical prints, use our 10×15 cm (4×6 inches) template to print your photos at retailers like Walmart or Target. This is a cost-effective option, with printing costs often less than $0.50 per print.
Digital passport photos near me
For a convenient and affordable solution, use Smartphone iD to take a compliant passport photo from home. Our online tool ensures your photo meets official requirements, providing you with a digital copy ready for submission. This eliminates the need to visit a physical location, saving you time and effort.
How to Take a digital passport photo at home?
Thanks to modern technology, taking a digital passport at home has never been easier, use the following simple steps to achieve success by taking a passport photo from the comfort of your own home.
- Choose a place to position your smartphone that will ensure good lighting on your face.
- Open the Smartphone iD app that can assist you in taking a compliant photograph.
- Take a picture using the handy head and shoulders guidelines.
- Choose the right template for the USA.
- The photo is sent to be validated by an expert who will ensure that the picture complies with government requirements
FAQS
Does CVS have digital copy of passport photo?
Yes, especially photographs that are printed at CVS from a camera using film come with a free CD that has a digital copy of the photograph.
Does Walgreens do digital passport photos?
No. Walgreens doesn’t provide digital copies of passport photos.
Can you get a digital copy of your passport photo?
Yes certainly. You can use a passport photo tool application such as Smartphone iD to successfully take a government-compliant digital passport photo. You are not allowed to use a scanned passport photo according to the ICAO rules.
Does the post office do digital passport photos?
No. The post office only offers hardcopy passport photos.
How to convert digital passport photo?
Generally, you can use the Windows Photos app to resize any image, passport photos included. If you are sure that your picture is compliant with government guidelines then use the below steps to convert your image to passport size:
- Open your passport photo that you intend to resize.
- Click “Resize”
- Select “Define Custom Dimensions”
- Enter the dimension in pixels (600 x 600)
How to take a digital passport photo with iPhone?
Follow these simple steps to achieve success by taking a passport photo with your iPhone.
- Choose a place to position your smartphone that will ensure good lighting on your face.
- Open the Smartphone iD app that can assist you in taking a compliant photograph.
- Take a picture using the handy head and shoulders guidelines.
- Choose the right template for the USA.
- The photo is sent to be validated by an expert who will ensure that the picture complies with government requirements
Where can you print a digital passport photo?
Generally, photography stores and photography studios will print your digital passport photo, as will big retail stores including Costco, Walmart, and Target. You can also print photos at post or passport offices near you.
Additionally, you could choose to print your photos at Pharmacies such as Walgreens, CVS, and Duane Reade. There are also delivery companies to choose from including UPS, FedEx, and USPS. The best place to print digital passport photos is with Smartphone iD – and the pictures will be delivered to your doorstep.
Can you take a digital passport photo on your phone?
Yes, you can. basically, There are a number of apps (including Smartphone iD) designed to assist in this process, complete with templates for countries all over the world.
Sources
https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/passports/how-apply/online-renewal-photo.html
https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/passports/how-apply/photos.html
