How to Print 2×2 Passport Photos: Complete 2025 Guide
Looking to print 2×2 passport photos? You have several options ranging from $0.10 at home to$16.99 at stores. This comprehensive guide covers all methods to print passport photos cheaply and correctly in 2025.
💡 Quick Answer
The most cost effective way is to create a 2×2 passport photo online, arrange it in a 4×6 layout, then print it for $0.39 at Walmart, CVS, or Walgreens. This gives you 4 passport photos for under $0.50 total.
All Ways to Print 2×2 Passport Photos (Price Comparison)
Method
Cost Per Photo
Total Cost
Time
Quality
Home Printer
~$0.10
$0.40
5 minutes
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Walmart Photo Center
$0.09
$0.37
1 hour
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
CVS Photo Print
$0.10
$0.39
1 hour
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Walgreens Photo Print
$0.10
$0.39
1 hour
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
CVS Passport Service
$7.50
$14.99
15 minutes
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Walgreens Passport Service
$8.50
$16.99
15 minutes
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
1. Print at Home (Cheapest - $0.40 total)
Home printing is the most economical option if you already have a photo printer.
What You Need:
Photo printer (inkjet or dye-sublimation)
4×6 photo paper or cardstock
A 2×2 passport photo in 4×6 layout
Color printer ink
Step-by-Step:
Create your passport photo with correct 2×2 dimensions
Arrange 4 copies in a 4×6 inch layout
Print on photo paper with highest quality settings
Cut out individual 2×2 photos with precision
Best for: People with photo printers who need photos immediately
Before printing, ensure your photo meets these official requirements:
Size: Exactly 2×2 inches (51×51 mm)
Head size: 1 to 1⅜ inches from chin to top of head
Background: White or off-white
Expression: Neutral facial expression
Eyes: Both eyes open and looking directly at camera
Recent: Taken within the last 6 months
Quality: High resolution, in focus
Format: Color photo, no filters or editing
Common Printing Mistakes to Avoid
Printing on regular copy paper instead of photo paper
Using incorrect print dimensions (not 2×2 exactly)
Low print quality settings that reduce sharpness
Cutting photos imprecisely with dull scissors
Not calibrating printer colors properly
Printing photos that are older than 6 months
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I print passport photos on normal paper?
While possible, regular paper is not recommended. Photo paper provides better quality, durability, and color accuracy. Most passport agencies prefer photos printed on photo paper for official applications.
What is the cheapest way to print passport photos?
The cheapest method is creating a 4×6 layout with 4 passport photos and printing it at Walmart ($0.37) or at home (~$0.40). This costs about $0.09-0.10 per passport photo.
How many passport photos should I print?
Most passport applications require 2 photos, but printing a 4×6 layout gives you 4 photos for the same cost. Extra photos are useful for visas, renewals, or replacing rejected photos.
Can I use my phone to print passport photos?
Yes, you can take a passport photo with your phone, upload it to a photo printing app (Walmart, CVS, Walgreens), and pick it up at the store. Ensure the photo meets all official requirements before printing.
💰 Bottom Line
For most people, the best approach is: 1) Create a compliant 2×2 passport photo online, 2) Download the 4×6 print layout, 3) Print at Walmart/CVS/Walgreens for $0.37-0.39. This saves 95% compared to in-store passport photo services while maintaining professional quality.