Upload a clear photo
Use a recent, front-facing color photo taken against a plain white or off-white background.
U.S. passport · paper applications
Make a U.S. passport photo at home
Fit one clear photo to visible 2 × 2 inch guides, then download a free single image or a ready-to-print 4×6 sheet.
No registrationNo watermarkProcessed in your browser
Live alignment preview2 × 2 in
Head: 25–35 mmCentered
Fit looks goodHead size and center are within the guide.
2 × 2 inchesFinal printed photo size
25–35 mmChin to top of head
White backgroundPlain white or off-white
Free 4×6 sheetSix photos per print
Three simple steps
From phone photo to print sheet
No account, checkout, or complicated editing software.
Fit the official guide
Center the face and adjust the crop until the head fits inside the visible size markers.
Download and print
Save one 2×2 image or a 4×6 sheet with six copies and print it at actual size.
U.S. passport photo specifications
Printed size2 × 2 in
51 × 51 mm
51 × 51 mm
Head height1–1⅜ in
25–35 mm
25–35 mm
Photo ageWithin 6 months
BackgroundWhite or off-white
OutputSingle JPG or 4×6 sheet
Before you upload
Take a photo that can pass review
A correctly sized crop cannot fix a poor source photo. Start with even lighting and an unchanged image.
- Face the camera directly with your full face visible.
- Use a neutral expression with both eyes open.
- Remove eyeglasses and avoid uniforms or distracting clothing.
- Keep the background plain, white or off-white, and free of shadows.
- Do not use beauty filters, AI alterations, or background replacement.
Requirements summarized from the U.S. Department of State. Last reviewed July 2026. Final acceptance is determined by the reviewing agency.
Photo tips
Start with the right source photo
The editor helps with crop and layout; it does not make an unacceptable photo acceptable.
GoodEven light and centered face
Plain background, clear features, no harsh shadows.
AvoidStrong background shadow
Move away from the wall and add soft, even front lighting.
AvoidFace too close or off-center
Step farther from the camera and leave room around the head.
Print for less
Six 2×2 photos on one 4×6 print
Download a print-ready sheet and use a standard photo-printing service. Select 4×6 photo paper and disable fit, crop, or border adjustments.
- Choose the 4×6 photo size.
- Print at 100% or actual size.
- Confirm each finished photo measures exactly 2 × 2 inches.
Common questions
U.S. passport photo FAQ
Can I take my U.S. passport photo at home?
Yes, but it must meet all current Department of State requirements. The tool helps with crop and print layout; the source photo must already have acceptable lighting, background, expression, and image quality.
Can I smile or wear glasses?
Use a neutral expression with both eyes open and mouth closed. Eyeglasses should be removed unless a rare medical exception applies.
Does this tool alter my appearance?
No. The workflow is designed for crop, positioning, and print layout. U.S. guidance says not to digitally alter the photo using filters, AI, or retouching.
Is acceptance guaranteed?
No tool can guarantee acceptance. A Department of State employee makes the final determination.
Ready to make your passport photo?
Upload once, align to the guide, and download without a watermark.