My CVS passport photo was rejected — what should I do?

If your passport photo from CVS was rejected, you’re not alone. While CVS is a convenient place to get photos taken, mistakes in background, sizing, or lighting can lead to rejection by the U.S. Department of State or other authorities.

Common Reasons for Rejection

• Background not pure white or uneven lighting
• Head size too small or too large compared to official requirements
• Shadows on the face or background
• Expression not neutral (smiling, tilted head)
• Blurry or low-resolution image

Why CVS Photos Sometimes Fail

CVS staff use in-store cameras and printers, but results can vary by location. Without automated compliance checks, photos may not meet exact U.S. passport standards—especially for head position and background uniformity.

How to Fix the Problem

• Retake your photo with an online passport photo generator
• Use a plain white background with even lighting
• Ensure your head size and eye height match official measurements
• Download a compliance-checked 4×6 layout and print it at CVS for $0.39

Why an Online Generator Is More Reliable

Online tools can detect and fix common mistakes instantly—before printing. This eliminates guesswork and significantly reduces the chance of rejection.

Step-by-Step to Get a Replacement Photo

1. Take a photo at home in good lighting, against a plain white wall
2. Upload it to an online passport photo generator
3. Preview and confirm it passes compliance checks
4. Download the 4×6 layout and print at CVS for $0.39

Tip: Keep a digital copy of your compliance-approved photo so you can reprint anytime without retaking.

Get a Guaranteed-Compliant Photo Now

Avoid another rejection—upload your photo, preview for free, and print at CVS or any store near you.