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CVS vs Walgreens Passport Photos: 2025 Comparison

CVS and Walgreens are the two most popular U.S. retailers for passport photos. Both offer quick in-store service, but differences in price, quality, and flexibility may make one a better choice for you. Here’s a head-to-head comparison for 2025.

Price

Both CVS and Walgreens charge $16.99 for two printed passport photos. Neither includes a digital file unless you specifically request it (and some stores may not provide one at all).

In-Store Experience

CVS

  • Thousands of locations nationwide
  • Usually no appointment needed
  • Standard turnaround: 5–10 minutes
  • Limited customization — you get what’s taken

Walgreens

  • Wide store network, often with extended hours
  • No appointment needed
  • Standard turnaround: 5–10 minutes
  • Some reports of resizing issues when printing from digital files

Common Issues Reported

  • Background color not pure white
  • Head size outside official requirements
  • Shadows or uneven lighting
  • No preview before payment

Side-by-Side Comparison

FeatureCVSWalgreens
Price$16.99$16.99
Digital File Included
Requires Appointment
Typical Wait Time5–10 mins5–10 mins
Common IssuesShadows, background colorResizing, head size

Cheaper & More Flexible Alternative

Instead of paying $16.99 at either store, you can create your own compliance-checked passport photo online and print it at CVS or Walgreens for under $0.50.

  • Take your photo at home with a smartphone
  • Use an online passport photo generator to crop and check compliance
  • Download a 4×6 layout with four 2×2 photos
  • Print it at CVS or Walgreens for $0.39–$0.50

Tip: Keep your layout file so you can reprint anytime without retaking the photo.

Get Your Compliant Photo Now

Upload your image, preview it for free, and download a perfect 4×6 layout ready for printing at the store of your choice.

Print at CVS

Learn how to print your own passport photo at CVS for under $0.50. Read guide →

Print at Walgreens

Learn how to print your own passport photo at Walgreens for under $0.50. Read guide →