USPS vs Online Passport Photos: 2025 Comparison
The U.S. Postal Service (USPS) offers passport photo services at select locations, usually as part of a passport application appointment. Online passport photo generators let you take your photo from home. Here’s how they compare in terms of cost, convenience, and flexibility.
USPS Passport Photo
- 💰 Price: $15.00 for two printed photos
- 📍 Available at select post offices (appointment often required)
- ⏱️ Only offered during passport service hours
- ❌ Digital file not included
- ⚠️ Limited control over photo retakes
Online Passport Photo Generator
- 💰 Price: Around $3.99
- 🏠 Take photo at home with a phone or camera
- ✅ Automated background removal & compliance checks
- 📥 Digital file included + printable 4×6 layout
- 🖨️ Print anywhere for $0.39–$0.50
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | USPS | Online Generator |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $15.00 | $3.99 |
| Requires Appointment | ✅ | ❌ |
| Digital File Included | ❌ | ✅ |
| Available Anytime | ❌ | ✅ |
| Background Removal | ❌ | ✅ |
| Compliance Guarantee | ❌ | ✅ |
Why Many People Switch to Online
USPS is convenient if you’re already applying for a passport in person, but an online generator is cheaper, faster, and gives you unlimited retakes from home.
- No scheduling or travel required
- Free preview before payment
- Instant download and printing anywhere
Tip: You can still print your online-generated 4×6 layout at a USPS-partnered store like Walgreens or CVS.
Get Your Compliant Photo Now
Upload your image, preview it for free, and download a perfect 4×6 layout ready for printing—cheaper and faster than USPS.
Check Photo Compliance →Passport Photo FAQs
Print at USPS
Learn how to print your own passport photo at USPS 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 →