🇺🇸 US Passport Photo — Free Online Maker
Create a fully compliant US passport photo in seconds. SnapItID resizes, crops, and validates your photo against official US Department of State requirements — 100% free, no signup needed.
US Passport Photo Requirements
The US Department of State has strict photo requirements for all passport applications, renewals, and visa submissions. Here’s what you need to know:
| Requirement | Specification |
|---|---|
| Photo Size | 2 × 2 inches (51 × 51 mm) |
| Head Size | 1 – 1⅜ inches (25–35 mm) from chin to top of head |
| Background | Plain white or off-white, no shadows |
| Recency | Taken within the last 6 months |
| Expression | Neutral or natural smile, both eyes open, mouth closed |
| Glasses | Not allowed since 2016 (except documented medical exceptions) |
| Head Coverings | Only for religious or medical purposes, with signed statement |
| Resolution | High resolution, not blurry or pixelated |
| Lighting | Even lighting, no shadows on face or background |
Correct vs. Incorrect Examples
✅ Correct
[Correct US Passport Photo
2×2 in, white background,
neutral expression,
even lighting]
2×2 in, white background,
neutral expression,
even lighting]
- Plain white background
- Face centered and fully visible
- Neutral expression
- No shadows
❌ Incorrect
[Incorrect Photo
— DO NOT USE —
busy background,
wearing glasses,
too dark]
— DO NOT USE —
busy background,
wearing glasses,
too dark]
- Patterned or colored background
- Wearing glasses (reflective)
- Shadows on face or wall
- Head tilted or off-center
Create Your US Passport Photo Now
SnapItID automatically resizes and checks your photo against US DOS requirements. Free, instant, and private.
Create Your US Photo NowFrequently Asked Questions
What size is a US passport photo?
A US passport photo must be exactly 2 × 2 inches (51 × 51 mm). The head from the bottom of the chin to the top of the head (including hair) must measure between 1 inch and 1⅜ inches (25–35 mm).
What background does a US passport photo need?
The background must be plain white or off-white with no shadows, texture, patterns, or objects visible. SnapItID helps you verify your background meets this requirement.
Can I smile in my US passport photo?
The US State Department requires a neutral facial expression. A natural, unexaggerated smile is acceptable, but your mouth must be closed and both eyes must be fully open.
How recent does my US passport photo need to be?
Your passport photo must be taken within the last 6 months and must accurately reflect your current appearance. If you’ve undergone significant facial changes (surgery, weight change, etc.), a new photo is required.
Can I take my US passport photo with my phone?
Yes! The US State Department accepts digital photos taken with a smartphone, as long as they meet all the requirements listed above. SnapItID helps you crop and verify your phone photo meets official standards — completely free.