CVS vs Online Passport Photos: 2025 Comparison
If you're getting a U.S. passport or visa photo, CVS is one of the most common options. But is it still the best?
In this guide, we compare CVS's in-store photo service with a modern online passport photo generator to help you decide what's faster, cheaper, and more reliable.
CVS Passport Photo: What You Get
- Price: $16.99 for two printed photos
- Process: Taken in-store by staff
- Digital File: ❌ Not included
- Location: Must visit a physical store
- Preview Before Payment: No
Reddit users frequently report rejections from USCIS or embassies due to improper CVS photos—background issues, incorrect sizing, or shadowing.
Online Passport Photo Generator: What You Get
- Price: $3.99 (or free preview before payment)
- Take Photo Anywhere: Use your phone + a blank wall
- Instant AI Compliance Check: Head size, eye level, face proportion
- Digital Download: JPG + 4x6 print layout
- Print Anywhere: Use Walgreens/CVS self-serve printers for $0.39
- Free Preview: See your photo before you pay
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | CVS | Online Generator |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $16.99 | $3.99 |
| Includes Digital File | ❌ | ✅ |
| Requires Store Visit | ✅ | ❌ |
| Preview Before Paying | ❌ | ✅ |
| AI Compliance Check | ❌ | ✅ |
| Printable Layout | ❌ | ✅ (4x6 layout) |
| Time Required | 20–40 mins | ~3 mins |
What a Compliant Photo Looks Like
A proper U.S. passport photo requires:
- Neutral expression
- Even lighting, no shadows
- White or off-white background
- Proper head size and eye height
*Our tool overlays these measurements on your preview so you can see compliance before downloading.
Printing at CVS for $0.39
You can use our 4x6 layout to print four 2×2 passport photos at any CVS photo kiosk for just $0.39.
Why More People Are Switching in 2025
- Faster: No lines, no commute—just shoot + upload
- Cheaper: Save over 75% per photo
- Less Risky: See the result before you submit
- Flexible: Retake as many times as you want
Try It Now – Free Preview
Upload your photo and get a full preview before you pay. Works for U.S. passport, visa, green card, and more.
Generate My Passport Photo →FAQ
Does CVS give you a digital copy?
No. CVS only provides printed photos. You can't get a digital JPG unless you take it yourself.
Will a CVS photo get rejected?
Possibly. Many users report their CVS photos being rejected by USCIS due to background or sizing errors.
Can I print a digital passport photo at CVS?
Yes. Use our 4x6 layout and print it at any CVS photo kiosk for just $0.39.
Passport Photo FAQs
Print at CVS
Learn how to print your own passport photo at CVS for under $0.50. Read guide →
Print at Online
Learn how to print your own passport photo at Online for under $0.50. Read guide →