US passport photo maker (2x2 inch)
Take a photo against a plain wall, and we size it to the State Department rules: a 2 × 2 inch photo with your head 1 to 1⅜ inches tall, on a white background. Download a 4×6 sheet with six photos and print it for a few cents.
1Choose country and photo size
2Add your photo
Or drop a photo here. Face the camera in front of a plain light wall, no glasses.
3Adjust
Replaces the background and cleans the edges around your hair. Hold Compare on the photo to see the difference.
4Check
- Checks appear after you add a photo.
5Download
Digital photo
For online applications.
Print sheet
Print at 100% scale. A 4×6 in sheet prints at any photo kiosk or pharmacy.
US passport photo requirements
- Size 2 × 2 inches (51 × 51 mm), in color.
- Head 1 to 1⅜ inches (25–35 mm) from the bottom of the chin to the top of the head.
- Eyes 1⅛ to 1⅜ inches (28–35 mm) from the bottom of the photo.
- Plain white or off-white background with no shadows.
- Taken in the last 6 months, neutral expression or natural smile, both eyes open.
- No glasses. Head coverings only for religious or medical reasons, with a signed statement.
- Printed on matte or glossy photo paper, not edited or filtered.
Renewing online?
The online renewal system asks for a digital photo taken with a camera and not edited. Upload your original photo there; use this tool for mailed applications and to check your framing.
Checked against official guidance in September 2026. Rules change, so confirm with the U.S. Department of State – Passport photos before you apply.
How to take a photo that gets accepted
- Stand about 1 m (3–4 ft) in front of a plain white or light wall, facing a window for soft, even light.
- Ask someone to take the photo at eye level from about 1.2 m (4 ft), or use a timer. Keep your shoulders in the frame.
- Look straight at the camera with a neutral expression, mouth closed, both eyes open.
- Remove glasses, hats and headphones. Religious head coverings are usually allowed if your whole face is visible.
- Upload the photo, check the green head guides and the checklist, then download or print.
Frequently asked questions
What size is a US passport photo?
2 × 2 inches (51 × 51 mm). The head must be 1 to 1⅜ inches from chin to the top of the head, and the eyes 1⅛ to 1⅜ inches from the bottom edge.
Can I take my own passport photo at home?
Yes. The State Department accepts photos taken by anyone, as long as they meet the size, background and quality rules. Use a plain white wall and soft, even light.
Can I wear glasses in my passport photo?
No. Glasses are not allowed in US passport photos unless you have a signed medical statement.
Where can I print the photos?
Download the 4×6 inch (10×15 cm) sheet and order it as a standard photo print at a pharmacy, supermarket or photo kiosk, or print it at home on photo paper at 100% scale. Cut along the grey lines.
Is my photo uploaded anywhere?
No. Face detection, cropping and background removal run inside your browser. Your photo never leaves your device and we never see it.