US Passport Photo – Free 2×2 Inch Maker
US passport photos must be 2 inches by 2 inches (51×51 mm), with the head measuring 1 ⅛ to 1 ⅜ inches (25–35 mm) from chin to crown, on a plain white or off-white background. The State Department rejects roughly 1 in 10 photos for size or background issues. PicPassport enforces these specs automatically when you crop.
Background color is strictly plain white or off-white per 22 CFR 51.27. Cream, grey, or patterned backgrounds are not accepted. The background must be uniform with no shadows cast by the subject and no objects visible.
Glasses have not been permitted in US passport photos since 2016. The rule was introduced to prevent reflections and shadows from interfering with biometric face recognition systems. This applies to all types of eyewear including prescription lenses and clear frames.
Head coverings are not permitted except for religious reasons. If you wear a religious head covering, you must submit a signed statement confirming it is worn daily as part of your religious practice. The full face from chin to crown must be clearly visible regardless of the head covering.
Expression must be neutral with both eyes open and the mouth closed. Smiling is not permitted. The photo must have been taken within the last 6 months and must accurately reflect your current appearance. For digital submission via the DS-82 online renewal program, the file must be a JPEG between 50 KB and 10,000 KB at a minimum resolution of 600×600 pixels. PicPassport exports a 600×600 px JPEG that meets these requirements directly.
Official US Passport Photo Requirements
- Size: 2×2 inches (51×51 mm) / 600×600 px at 300 DPI
- Background: Plain white or off-white, no patterns or shadows
- Head height: 1 inch to 1⅜ inches (25–35 mm) from chin to top of head
- Recency: Taken within the last 6 months
- Glasses: Not permitted (rule in effect since 2016)
- Head coverings: Not permitted except for religious reasons (must submit a signed statement)
- Expression: Neutral, both eyes open, mouth closed
- Pose: Full face from the front, looking directly at the camera
How to Make Your US Passport Photo
- Take or select a photo. Stand in front of a plain white wall in good, even lighting. Look straight at the camera with a neutral expression. Upload the photo using the tool above.
- Adjust the crop. The tool automatically detects your face and sets the crop. Drag the frame if needed so your head fills 70–80% of the frame with the correct head height.
- Download and print. Click Download to save your 2×2 inch photo or a print-ready 4×6 inch sheet. Print at 300 DPI at any pharmacy or photo shop.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Shadows on the face or background. Use diffuse, even lighting and stand a few feet away from the wall.
- Head too small or too large. Your head must measure between 1 and 1⅜ inches (25–35 mm) from chin to crown in the final 2×2 photo.
- Wearing glasses or a hat. Both are rejected unless a religious head covering exception applies.
- Non-white background. A cream, gray, or patterned background will cause your application to be rejected. The background must be plain white or off-white.
Official Source
Requirements sourced from the US Department of State passport photo guide, which sets binding photo specifications for all US passport and travel document applications under 22 CFR 51.27.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I wear glasses in a US passport photo?
No. Since 2016, the US Department of State does not accept passport photos with glasses, regardless of whether they have tinted lenses. Wearing glasses will result in your application being rejected.
What background is required for a US passport photo?
The background must be plain white or off-white with no patterns, textures, or shadows. This tool automatically removes the background and replaces it with the correct white color.
How recent does my passport photo need to be?
Your photo must have been taken within the last 6 months to reflect your current appearance. If your appearance has changed significantly since your last passport, you must submit a new photo.
Can I smile in my passport photo?
No. You must have a neutral expression with both eyes open and your mouth closed. Smiling, squinting, or any other expression is not permitted for US passport photos.
Where can I print my passport photo?
You can print at most pharmacies (CVS, Walgreens, Rite Aid), FedEx/UPS stores, or Walmart Photo Center. Download the 4×6 inch print sheet from this tool and print it at 300 DPI to get two correctly-sized 2×2 inch photos.
What happens if my passport photo is rejected?
If your photo is rejected, you will need to submit a new one that meets all requirements. Common rejection reasons include incorrect size, wrong background color, shadows on the face, glasses, or a hat. Use this tool to ensure your photo meets all official requirements.
What does the State Department require for facial expression?
The State Department requires a neutral expression with both eyes open and your mouth closed. No smiling, squinting, or any other expression is permitted for US passport photos.
Can I submit my US passport photo digitally for online renewal?
Yes. The DS-82 online renewal program accepts a digital photo upload. The file must be a JPEG between 50 KB and 10,000 KB, with a minimum resolution of 600×600 pixels. PicPassport exports a 600×600 px JPEG that meets these requirements directly.
See general passport photo FAQ →