United States passport photo requirements
Everything the issuing authority checks — exact dimensions, head position, background — plus a tool that crops your photo to spec, with no AI manipulation.
| Print size | 51 × 51 mm (1205 × 1205 px @ 600 DPI) |
|---|---|
| Head height (chin–crown) | 25–35 mm |
| Head height (digital) | 50–69% of image height |
| Background | White or off-white, plain, evenly lit, no shadows or textures. |
| Digital file | min 600×600 px, max 1200×1200 px, JPG/PNG/HEIC/HEIF, 54KB-10MB |
| Glasses | Not allowed since November 2016; narrow medical exception only, with a signed doctor's statement. |
| Expression | Neutral, or a natural smile with the mouth closed; eyes open. |
| Photo age | Taken within the last 6 months. |
| Color | Colour only. |
Special rules
- Since 1 January 2026 the State Department screens photos for AI editing: background replacement, filters and retouching lead to rejection — only cropping and resizing are allowed.
- Hair may extend past the edges of the frame as long as the whole head is visible.
Make your photo — in your browser
Your photo never leaves your device. Cropping and resizing only — no AI editing, no background replacement.
Drag the photo so the chin sits on the chin line and the top of the head stays inside the crown zone.
Full resolution 1205 × 1205 px, no watermark, ready to submit.
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Demo: simulate successful paymentFrequently asked questions
What size is a United States passport photo?
The required print size is 51 × 51 mm (1205 × 1205 pixels at 600 DPI).
What background is required?
White or off-white, plain, evenly lit, no shadows or textures.
Can I wear glasses?
Not allowed since November 2016; narrow medical exception only, with a signed doctor's statement.
How recent must the photo be?
Taken within the last 6 months.
Official source: https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/passports/how-apply/photos.html. Always confirm on the official page before submitting. Last reviewed: 2026-07.