USA Passport Photo Checklist (2025 Official Requirements)
Complete checklist for US passport photos. Ensure 100% compliance with State Department requirements and avoid rejection with our step-by-step guide.
Essential Requirements
Critical specs: 2×2 inches exactly, plain white background, neutral expression, eyes open and visible, head 1-1⅜ inches from chin to crown, photo taken within 6 months.
Pre-Photo Setup Checklist
Setup Requirements ✓
- ☐ Plain white or off-white background prepared
- ☐ Even, soft lighting arranged (natural light preferred)
- ☐ Camera positioned 4-6 feet from subject
- ☐ Background 2-4 feet behind subject (to avoid shadows)
- ☐ Camera at eye level with subject
- ☐ Timer or assistant available for steady shots
- ☐ Backup lighting plan if natural light insufficient
Subject Preparation Checklist
Clothing and Appearance
Acceptable Clothing ✓
- ☐ Everyday clothing (no uniforms or costumes)
- ☐ Contrasting color with background (avoid white on white)
- ☐ Conservative neckline (no low-cut or revealing clothing)
- ☐ Solid colors or simple patterns preferred
- ☐ Well-fitted clothing (not loose or baggy)
- ☐ Clean and wrinkle-free attire
Hair and Makeup
Grooming Standards ✓
- ☐ Hair styled away from face and eyes
- ☐ Natural makeup (if worn) - avoid heavy/dramatic looks
- ☐ No hair accessories (unless religious head covering)
- ☐ Facial hair groomed and not obscuring face
- ☐ Hair color appears natural in photo
- ☐ No excessive styling products creating shine
Photo Composition Checklist
Head Position and Size
Positioning Requirements ✓
- ☐ Head centered in frame horizontally and vertically
- ☐ Head height 1 to 1⅜ inches (25-35mm) from chin to crown
- ☐ Face occupies 50-70% of total photo height
- ☐ Both ears visible (unless naturally obscured by head shape)
- ☐ Head straight and level (not tilted)
- ☐ Shoulders square to camera and visible in frame
Facial Expression and Eyes
Expression Standards ✓
- ☐ Neutral facial expression (no smile)
- ☐ Mouth closed with lips together
- ☐ Eyes open and clearly visible
- ☐ Looking directly at camera
- ☐ No raised eyebrows or squinting
- ☐ Natural, relaxed appearance
Technical Quality Checklist
Photo Dimensions and Quality
Technical Specifications ✓
- ☐ Exactly 2×2 inches (51×51 mm) for print photos
- ☐ 600×600 pixels minimum for digital photos
- ☐ High resolution (300-600 DPI for printing)
- ☐ Sharp focus throughout image
- ☐ No pixelation or digital artifacts
- ☐ Natural color reproduction
- ☐ JPEG format for digital submissions
Lighting and Exposure
Lighting Standards ✓
- ☐ Even lighting across entire face
- ☐ No harsh shadows on face or background
- ☐ Proper exposure (not too bright or too dark)
- ☐ Natural skin tone colors
- ☐ No red-eye effect
- ☐ Background evenly lit without hot spots
Background Compliance Checklist
Background Requirements ✓
- ☐ Plain white or off-white color only
- ☐ No patterns, textures, or designs
- ☐ No shadows cast by subject
- ☐ No other people or objects visible
- ☐ Uniform color throughout background
- ☐ No decorations, furniture, or walls visible
- ☐ Background extends beyond subject's head and shoulders
Glasses and Accessories Checklist
Eyewear Guidelines
Glasses Policy ✓
- ☐ Glasses removed (strongly recommended)
- ☐ If worn: no reflections or glare on lenses
- ☐ If worn: eyes clearly visible through lenses
- ☐ If worn: frames don't obscure any part of eyes
- ☐ No tinted lenses (including transitions)
- ☐ No sunglasses (never acceptable)
Other Accessories
Accessories Policy ✓
- ☐ No hats or head coverings (unless religious)
- ☐ No headphones or earbuds visible
- ☐ Minimal jewelry (nothing distracting)
- ☐ No props or toys in frame
- ☐ No wireless devices or bluetooth accessories
Digital Submission Checklist
Digital File Requirements ✓
- ☐ JPEG file format (.jpg)
- ☐ File size under 240KB
- ☐ Minimum 600×600 pixels
- ☐ Maximum 1200×1200 pixels
- ☐ 24-bit color depth
- ☐ sRGB color profile
- ☐ Minimal compression (high quality)
Print Photo Checklist
Print Quality Standards ✓
- ☐ High-quality photo paper (not copy paper)
- ☐ Matte or glossy finish acceptable
- ☐ Sharp, clear printing quality
- ☐ Accurate color reproduction
- ☐ No creases, tears, or damage
- ☐ Clean cutting with straight edges
- ☐ No ink streaks or printing defects
Final Verification Checklist
Pre-Submission Review ✓
- ☐ Photo taken within last 6 months
- ☐ Accurate representation of current appearance
- ☐ No digital alterations or retouching
- ☐ Multiple copies available if needed
- ☐ Photo matches all checklist requirements
- ☐ Backup photos taken in case of rejection
Common Rejection Prevention
Top 5 Rejection Reasons
- Background issues (35%): Wrong color, shadows, patterns
- Glasses problems (25%): Reflections, tinted lenses, obstruction
- Size errors (20%): Incorrect dimensions or head size
- Lighting issues (15%): Too bright, too dark, uneven
- Expression problems (5%): Smiling, closed eyes, looking away
Quality Control Steps
- Take multiple photos: Capture 10-20 images to choose from
- Review at full size: Examine photos at 100% zoom
- Check against requirements: Use this checklist for verification
- Get second opinion: Have someone else review your photo
- Test print: Print a copy to check quality before submission
Special Circumstances
Children Under 16
- Same requirements apply: All adult rules apply to children
- Assistance allowed: Adult may help position child
- Assistant not visible: Support person must be completely hidden
- Eyes open preferred: But more flexibility for very young children
Medical Conditions
- Glasses for medical reasons: Documentation may be required
- Physical limitations: Contact passport office for guidance
- Assistive devices: Some accommodation possible
- Professional help: Consider specialized photography services
Professional vs DIY Decision Tree
Go Professional If:
- Previous DIY attempts were rejected
- Time-sensitive application deadline
- Special circumstances or medical needs
- Lack of proper equipment or setup
- Multiple family members need photos
DIY Suitable If:
- You have good camera and lighting setup
- Comfortable with photography basics
- Time to take multiple attempts
- Standard adult applicant with no special needs
- Cost savings important
Pro Tips for Success:
- Review current passport photo for comparison
- Practice the setup with test shots first
- Keep room temperature comfortable for subject
- Have tissues available to blot any shine
- Take photos during subject's most alert time
- Keep extra batteries/memory cards ready
State-by-State Application Notes
Processing Variations
- Acceptance offices: Some locations more strict than others
- Processing times: Vary by location and season
- Local preferences: Some offices prefer professional photos
- Technology updates: Newer offices may have better verification systems
Emergency and Expedited Services
Rush Applications
- Higher standards: Less tolerance for marginal quality
- Professional recommended: Better success rate for urgent needs
- Multiple copies: Bring extra photos for potential retakes
- Digital backups: Have digital versions ready for quick reprinting
Verify Your Photo Meets All Requirements
Use our compliance checker to ensure your photo passes all checklist items
Check Photo ComplianceView Detailed Requirements