I need a printed photo.
Follow the printed-photo checklist below, then prepare and measure your print.
See the print checklist ↓Home / Start here
YOUR PASSPORT PHOTO, EXPLAINEDUS passport photo requirements.
US passport photo requirements.
Know what to get right.
Start with how you’re applying. Then check your photo, follow the right output instructions, and use the detailed guides wherever you need help.
Find my photo requirements ↓THE PRINTED PHOTO2 × 2 inches
The square is only the start.
- Check the head inside it.
- Use a clear, recent original.
- Measure the finished print.
Paper or online?
I need a digital upload.
Keep your original camera file. The renewal portal lets you position it. A 4×6 print sheet is not the file to upload.
See the upload route ↓Check these before you print.
For a paper application, use a color photo taken within six months. The State Department specifies a 2-inch square with a chin-to-crown height of 1 to 1⅜ inches.
01
Size and position
Center your head. Check the photo boundary separately from head height.
Measure head size and framing ↗02
Light and background
Use even light and a plain white or off-white background without shadows.
Set up your phone photo ↗03
Face and expression
Face forward with visible eyes. The checklist requests neutral; detailed guidance also permits a closed-mouth smile.
Compare smile and expression examples ↗04
The original image
Avoid filters, retouching and background replacement. Retake a flawed source.
Find the problem and the next action ↗05
The physical print
Use matte or glossy photo-quality paper. Check sharpness and measure after printing.
Follow the print-and-measure checklist ↗What about my situation?
Can I keep my glasses on?
Remove glasses. A medical exception requires a signed doctor’s note. Check the official clothing and glasses guidance linked below.
What should I wear?
Choose everyday clothing. Uniforms and camouflage are excluded. Religious or medical head coverings require documentation and must leave your face visible. The official page explains the exceptions.
Can I take my baby’s photo at home?
Start with a safe setup and the infant-specific guidance. Our baby passport photo guide walks through the practical choices.
Can I use this checklist for a US visa?
Use the visa instructions for your application. See our DS-160 photo size and file guide rather than assuming a passport print meets the upload rules.
My photo was already rejected. Where do I start?
Read the reason and instructions in your notice first. Then use the photo rejection guide to identify what needs to change. Follow your notice for the deadline and submission method.
Renewing online? Keep the original.
The portal accepts JPG, JPEG, PNG, HEIC and HEIF, with a file size from 54 KB to 10 MB. Use a recent color original, not a scan or photograph of a print. Position or crop it within the application.
Its instructions ask you to look directly at the camera, keep your eyes visible and avoid showing teeth. Check the portal’s current guidance before uploading.
Compare online renewal and mailed photo requirements ↗Where are you in the process?
I still need to take it.Follow the phone setup guide ↗I have a photo ready.Open the free photo checker ↗I need somewhere to print.Compare printing options ↗I want to check my print.Measure the sheet before cutting ↗
A check helps you review.
FormFitPhoto cannot certify acceptance, establish the photo’s date or confirm your identity. Review the complete photo and follow your application instructions.
Go straight to the source.
State Department: printed passport photo requirements and examples
State Department: uploading a digital photo for online renewal
By FormFitPhoto · Reviewed October 9, 2026. Independent guidance. How we write and check our guides.