US Passport Photo Requirements
- 2x2 in (51x51 mm), head 50-69%, plain white background
- Upload a selfie and get a ready file in about 2 minutes
- Checked against the official US requirements
Example: your photo will appear here
The official requirements
- Size: 2×2 in (51×51 mm), exactly 600×600 px
- Head height: 50-69% of the photo height, chin to crown.
- Eye line: 56-69% of the photo height from the bottom.
- Background: Plain white or off-white.
- File: JPEG, at most 240 KB.
- Face: No glasses, neutral expression, mouth closed, both eyes open, full-face view.
- Freshness: Taken within the last 6 months.
- Print: Print on photo paper at 2x2 in if you submit on paper; the digital file works for online applications.
- Verified: Checked against the official source on 2026-09-15.
Why photos get rejected
- ✗ Head outside the 50-69% range
- ✗ Eyes not between 1 1/8 and 1 3/8 in from the bottom
- ✗ Shadows on the face or behind the head
- ✗ Glasses (not allowed since 2016)
- ✗ Gray, colored or patterned background
How to use it
FAQ
Can I take my own passport photo at home?›
Yes. Stand by a window so the light hits your face evenly, in front of a plain wall, and have someone take the photo or hold the phone at eye level. The tool checks the head size and the eye line against the official template.
What size is a US passport photo?›
2x2 inches (51x51 mm) on paper. For online applications the digital version is 600x600 pixels, JPEG under 240 KB. The tool produces both: a 600x600 file you can also print.
Does the background have to be white?›
Plain white or off-white. A slightly gray wall is the most common reason for rejection, but you do not need a studio: the tool replaces the background in your browser.
Can I wear glasses in a US passport photo?›
No. Glasses are not allowed, except for documented medical reasons with a signed statement.
How old can my photo be?›
It must be taken within the last 6 months and reflect how you look now.
Other document photos
Disclaimer: DocuPhoto is not a government agency and is not affiliated with the U.S. Department of State. Requirements are collected from public official sources (verified 2026-09-15). Final acceptance of a photo is decided by the receiving authority.
Problems or questions? Write to support@docuphoto.app