U.S. passport photos must be 2 × 2 inches, with your head (chin to top of head) between 1 and 1⅜ inches, which is 50–69% of the photo's height, on a plain white or off-white background. Frame your photo with the guide, then print the 4×6 sheet at any photo kiosk or pharmacy and cut out the photos.
How to use the US Passport Photo tool
- Take a photo facing the camera in front of a plain white or off-white wall, with even lighting and a neutral expression.
- Choose or drop the photo, then drag the square and its corners so your face fits the oval guide: the top of your head near the upper line and your chin near the lower line.
- Click the button to create your photos, and download them.
Frequently asked questions
How do I print the 4×6 sheet?
Order it as a regular 4×6 inch photo print at a pharmacy or photo kiosk, or print it at home on 4×6 photo paper with scaling set to 100% ("actual size"). Each square on the sheet is exactly 2 × 2 inches, so cut along the light gray lines.
What's the digital photo for?
It's a high-resolution square copy of the same framing, useful if a form asks you to upload a passport-style photo. For online passport renewal, follow the upload instructions on travel.state.gov, which check the photo when you upload it.
Is my photo uploaded?
No. Your photo is cropped and resized inside your browser and never leaves your device.
Does this tool edit or retouch my face?
No. The State Department doesn't allow photos changed with software, filters or AI, so this tool only crops, resizes and compresses. It doesn't smooth skin, change colors or replace the background.
Can the tool remove my background?
No, and it's best to get it right in the camera: stand in front of a plain white or off-white wall. The tool warns you if the edges of your photo don't look plain and light.
Will my photo definitely be accepted?
We can't guarantee that. Acceptance depends on things only you control, such as lighting, focus, expression and the background. Check the official requirements on travel.state.gov before you apply.
More US Passport & Visa Photo options