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What Are the Requirements for a Passport Picture?

by Marissa Willman

Overview

All applications for a U.S. passport must be accompanied by a photo of the applicant. The U.S. Department of State has strict guidelines that passport pictures must abide by. Submission of passport pictures that do not meet U.S. regulations can result in a significant delay in the issuance of a passport. The requirements for a passport picture include regulations for image size, the subject's appearance and the quality of the photo.
Dimensions

All pictures for U.S. passports must measure 2 by 2 inches. The subject's head must measure between 1 inch and 1 3/8 inch from the bottom of the chin to the top of the head and take up roughly half of the photo. The subject's eyes should be between 1 1/8 inches and 1 3/8 inches from the bottom of the picture.

Subject

The passport picture must offer an unobstructed view of the subject's head against a white background. The upper chest and shoulders must also be included in the frame. The subject's head should be centered in the photo and cannot be obstructed with a scarf, hat or any headgear. If the applicant usually wears eyeglasses, however, they should be worn in the passport picture. The subject should maintain a neutral expression without smiling or showing his teeth. Everyday clothing should be worn for the picture.
Clarity

Passport photos must be submitted in color. Black-and-white photographs will be rejected. The contrast and brightness of the picture should be such that the subject does not appear too dark or washed out. The applicant's color and appearance should look natural in the passport picture. Sufficient lighting from the front should be directed toward the subject's face to prevent shadows behind the subject or on the face. Use the U.S. Department of Travel website (see Resources) to view examples of acceptable photos.
Production

U.S. regulations do not require passport pictures to be taken by a professional photographer, although many portrait studios, drugstores and photo labs offer passport photo services. The applicant is free to take passport pictures at home with a digital camera as long as they meet the requirements. Passport photos can be printed professionally, through a digital image printer at a retail store or at home. Passport photos must be printed on thin paper with high resolution that does not appear pixilated.
Other Regulations

Passport photos must be no older than 6 months when the passport application is submitted. The Department of State requires a current photo that reflects how the applicant looks at the time of application. Two identical photos must be submitted with the application. Headgear or uniforms are permitted in passport pictures if the applicant wears these items daily for religious reasons. Such passport pictures require a signed statement from the applicant verifying daily use of the items.