USPS Passport Photo — Price, Low Cost Options, Requirements & Printing
USPS Passport Photo (2026 Guide)
Quick Answer
Price: $15.00 in-store (2 photos) or $0.39 DIY printing
Time: 15-30 minutes in-store
What you need: 2x2 inch photos, white background
Alternative: Bring your own photo for $0.39
The United States Postal Service (USPS) offers passport photo services at select locations, usually in combination with passport application acceptance. Here's how to get a 2×2 passport photo at USPS in 2026, and how to save money by preparing your own.
Option 1: Take Your Photo at USPS
- 💰 Price: $15.00 for two printed 2×2 photos
- 📍 Only available at select post offices with passport services
- ⏱️ Usually requires an appointment
- ❌ No digital file provided
- ⚠️ Limited hours and availability
To check if your local post office offers passport photo service, use the USPS Post Office Locator and filter by “Photo Services”.
Option 2: Bring Your Own 2×2 Photo
USPS will accept a compliant printed 2×2 passport photo if you bring one with your application. This means you can take your own photo at home and print it cheaply before your appointment.
Steps to Prepare Your Own 2×2 Photo
- Take your photo against a plain white background with good lighting
- Ensure head size is between 1" and 1 3/8"
- Face the camera directly with a neutral expression
- Use an online passport photo generator to crop, check, and prepare your image
- Print it on photo paper at any store or home printer
Why Bring Your Own Photo?
- Save money — under $0.50 vs $15.00
- Unlimited retakes until you’re happy with the result
- Keep a digital file for future use
Tip: If you prepare your own 2×2, you can print it on a 4×6 layout (4 inches by 6 inches) with multiple copies and cut them out.
Common Rejection Reasons & How to Avoid Them
Top Rejection Reasons:
- Head size too small or large - Head should be 1-1⅜ inches from chin to top
- Wrong background - Must be pure white, not off-white or cream
- Shadows on face - Use even lighting, avoid harsh flash
- Blurry or pixelated image - Use high resolution (300 DPI)
- Incorrect dimensions - Must be exactly 2×2 inches
Related Resources
Official Requirements
Learn the complete 2x2 passport photo requirements
US Passport Photo Requirements →Frequently Asked Questions
How much do USPS passport photos cost?
USPS charges $15.00 for two 2x2 passport photos taken in-store. You can bring your own photo printed for under $0.50 by creating photos online first.
How long do USPS passport photos take?
USPS passport photos are typically ready in 15-30 minutes when taken in-store. Processing time depends on appointment availability.
Are USPS passport photos accepted?
Yes, USPS passport photos are accepted by the U.S. State Department when they meet official requirements: 2x2 inches, white background, proper head size and positioning.
Does USPS require appointments for passport photos?
USPS typically requires appointments for passport photos at locations that offer photo services. Call ahead to confirm availability.
Which USPS locations take passport photos?
Only select USPS locations offer passport photo services, usually those that also accept passport applications. Use the USPS locator to find locations with photo services.
Create Your USPS-Ready Passport Photo
Upload your photo, preview it with official measurements, and download a 4×6 print layout that meets U.S. passport requirements — perfect for USPS submission or any passport application.