US · official requirement guide

US Passport Photo Size & Requirements (2026)

A US passport photo must be 2 × 2 inches (51 × 51 mm), in color, with a plain white or off-white background and your head centered.

Source checked August 25, 2026
Background checked
2 × 2 in US
Head size & positionPlain backgroundClear facial features
Ready to print or upload

United States Passport photo specifications

Physical size51 × 51 mm · 2 × 2 in
Pixels at 300 dpi600 × 600 px
Pixels at 600 dpi1200 × 1200 px
Head size25–35 mm (1–1⅜ in), chin to top of head
BackgroundPlain white or off-white
ExpressionNeutral expression or natural smile; both eyes open
GlassesNot allowed except for a signed medical reason
SmileA natural smile is accepted; keep both eyes open
File / print formatColor JPEG for online applications; matte or glossy photo paper for print
Visual check

United States Passport: pass or fail

Small framing and lighting mistakes can decide whether a photo is accepted.

Accepted

  • Even light across the face
  • White or off-white background
  • Head centered and fully visible
  • Recent color photo

Rejected

  • ×Filters or digital retouching
  • ×Glasses without medical documentation
  • ×Harsh shadows
  • ×Selfie angle or cropped head
Clear answers

United States Passport questions

Check the issuing authority before filing. Rules can change and local application routes may add requirements.

Can I smile in a US passport photo?

Yes. A natural, unexaggerated smile is acceptable if both eyes are open and your full face remains visible.

Can I wear glasses?

Normally no. Glasses are only accepted when a signed medical statement explains why they cannot be removed.

What pixel size should I use?

A 600 × 600 pixel square matches 2 × 2 inches at 300 dpi. The online tool may accept larger square files within its stated limits.

Foto3x4 for iPhone

Make a United States Passport photo

Open Foto3x4, choose the United States preset and export at 2 × 2 in.

Explore Foto3x4 for iPhone