US Passport Photo Requirements 2026
US Passport Photo Size Requirements
If you're applying for a US passport, your photo must meet specific size, framing, background, and appearance requirements.
US Passport Photo Size
A US passport photo must be:
2 × 2 inches (51 × 51 mm)
The head must measure 1 to 1⅜ inches (25 to 35 mm) from the bottom of the chin to the top of the head.
The photo must be in color and taken recently.
You don't need to calculate the dimensions yourself. IDPassportPro helps you crop and position your photo to the required US passport photo format.
For the latest official requirements, refer to the US Department of State passport photo guidelines.
US Passport Photo Requirements
Your US passport photo should meet the following requirements:
Color: The photo must be in color.
Background: Use a plain white or off-white background.
Position: Face the camera directly with your head straight and centered.
Expression: Maintain a neutral facial expression with both eyes open and your mouth closed.
Face: Your full face must be clearly visible.
Glasses: Remove glasses whenever possible. If you cannot remove them for medical reasons, make sure there is no glare and your eyes are clearly visible.
Head coverings: Hats and head coverings are generally not permitted unless worn for religious or medical reasons. Your full face must remain visible.
Hair: Hair should not cover your eyes or obscure your face.
Lighting: Use even lighting without strong shadows or glare on your face or background.
Clothing: Wear normal everyday clothing. Uniforms should generally not be worn.
Do I Need to Show My Ears?
No. Your ears do not have to be visible as long as your face is clearly visible and the photo meets the other requirements.
How to Take a US Passport Photo at Home
You don't need to visit a professional photographer to take your passport photo. You can take one at home using a smartphone or digital camera.
Step 1: Find a Suitable Location
Choose a well-lit area with a plain white or off-white background.
A plain wall works well as long as it has no decorations, patterns, or objects behind you.
Avoid direct sunlight or harsh lighting that creates shadows on your face or behind your head.
Step 2: Position the Camera
Have someone take the photo for you rather than taking a selfie.
Position the camera approximately at eye level and keep it straight and level with your face.
Stand far enough away from the camera so that your entire head, shoulders, and some space around your head are visible. This gives you enough room to crop the image correctly.
A tripod can help keep the camera steady.
Step 3: Position Yourself Correctly
Face the camera directly and look straight into the lens.
Keep your:
Head straight
Eyes open
Face centered
Shoulders visible
Mouth closed
Avoid tilting or rotating your head.
Step 4: Use a Neutral Expression
Maintain a neutral facial expression.
Keep your mouth closed and your eyes open. Avoid exaggerated expressions or poses.
Step 5: Check Your Appearance
Before taking the photo:
Remove glasses if possible.
Remove hats unless they are permitted.
Make sure your hair does not cover your eyes.
Make sure your face is clearly visible.
Check for shadows or reflections.
Make sure there are no distracting objects in the background.
Create Your US Passport Photo Online
Once you've taken your photo, you can use IDPassportPro's online passport photo maker to prepare it for a US passport application.
Step 1: Upload Your Photo
Upload a clear photo taken with your smartphone or digital camera.
For the best results, use a high-resolution image with your entire head and shoulders visible.
Step 2: Select the United States
Select United States as your country and Passport as your document type.
IDPassportPro will apply the appropriate photo specifications for the selected document.
Step 3: Crop and Position Your Photo
Use the crop tool to select the appropriate area of your photo.
IDPassportPro helps you create the required 2 × 2 inch format and position your head correctly within the photo.
Move and resize the crop area until your face is correctly positioned.
Step 4: Review Your Photo
Before downloading, check that:
Your face is centered.
Your head is straight.
Your eyes are open.
Your expression is neutral.
There are no obvious shadows or glare.
Your background is plain and light.
Your photo meets the required dimensions.
Step 5: Download Your Passport Photo
Once you're happy with your photo, download your completed US passport photo in a print-ready format.
Can I Take a US Passport Photo With My Phone?
Yes. You can take your US passport photo at home using a smartphone.
For the best results, have someone take the photo instead of using a selfie. Use good, even lighting, a plain background, and keep the camera at eye level.
Once you've taken the photo, upload it to IDPassportPro to crop and prepare it for the required US passport format.
Make a US Passport Photo Online With IDPassportPro
Need a 2 × 2 inch US passport photo?
IDPassportPro makes it easy to prepare your passport photo from your phone or computer.
Upload → Select United States → Crop → Download
No photo studio appointment is required.