How to use the US Passport Photo Maker (2 × 2 in)
- Take a photo against a plain white or off-white wall, without glasses.
- Drop it in, then drag and zoom until the top of the head and the chin sit inside the blue lines.
- Click Download print sheet for a 4 × 6 sheet with two photos.
- Print at actual size (100%) and cut the photos out along the lines.
US passport photo rules
| Size | 2 × 2 inches (51 × 51 mm) |
| Head | 1 to 1⅜ inches (25–35 mm) from chin to the top of the head |
| Background | Plain white or off-white, with no shadows |
| Glasses | Not allowed |
| Age of photo | Taken in the last 6 months |
The blue lines on the preview mark the 1 in and 1⅜ in head limits, so you can check the size by eye. Use a neutral expression or a natural smile with both eyes open, and look straight at the camera.
Printing
A 4 × 6 print at a pharmacy or photo kiosk costs very little and gives you two photos. Choose actual size or 100% when printing: "fit to page" changes the size and the photo will be rejected. Use photo paper, not plain paper.
Applying for a US visa instead? Visa applications use a digital photo with different rules. Use the US visa photo page.
Always check the latest rules on travel.state.gov before you apply.
Frequently asked questions
How big is the head in a US passport photo?
1 to 1⅜ inches from the bottom of the chin to the top of the head, in a 2 × 2 inch photo.
Can I smile?
A natural smile is fine, as long as both eyes are open. A neutral expression is safest.
Can I wear glasses?
No. Glasses aren't allowed in US passport photos, except in rare medical cases with a signed doctor's statement.
Is my photo uploaded?
No. Everything happens in your browser, and the photo never leaves your device.