Photos are the top reason U.S. passport applications get put on hold. Most rejections come from a few simple mistakes: glasses, shadows, the wrong size or an edited picture. Here are the 2026 rules from the U.S. Department of State, in plain English, plus tips for babies and kids.
Short answer: A U.S. passport photo must be 2 × 2 inches, in color, taken within the last 6 months, on a plain white or off-white background, with no glasses and no filters or edits. Our passport photos are $19.99 ($29.99 for other countries) at our Hillsboro, Beaverton and Lake Oswego offices.
U.S. passport photo rules at a glance
| Rule | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Size | 2 × 2 inches (51 × 51 mm) |
| Head size | 1 to 1 3/8 inches from chin to top of head |
| Age of photo | Taken within the last 6 months |
| Background | Plain white or off-white, no shadows or patterns |
| Glasses | Not allowed (unless a signed doctor’s note explains why) |
| Expression | Eyes open, mouth closed, facing the camera |
| Head coverings | Only for religious or medical reasons, with a signed statement; full face visible |
| Edits | No filters, apps or retouching. Submit the original photo |
Source: U.S. Department of State passport photo requirements.
Most common reasons photos are rejected
- Shadows on the face or background
- Photo too dark, too bright or color-shifted
- Head too small, too big or not centered
- Head tilted or turned
- Glasses, hats or hair covering the eyes
- Blurry, pixelated or printed on the wrong paper
- Photos edited with an app or filter
Baby and child passport photos
- Lay the baby on a plain white sheet, or cover the car seat with one.
- No hands, toys or other people in the photo.
- A baby’s eyes may be partly closed; older children must have their eyes open.
- Neutral expression and full face visible.
We take baby and child passport photos at all three offices and retake until the photo meets the rules.
Visa photos for other countries
Many countries use different sizes (for example 35 × 45 mm) and rules. Tell us the country and we will print the correct format. International photos are $29.99.
Where to get passport photos near Portland
- Hillsboro: 9620 NE Tanasbourne Dr, Suite 300 (details)
- Lake Oswego: 5 Centerpointe Dr, Suite 400
- Beaverton: 1500 NW Bethany Blvd, Suite 200
Mon–Fri 9am–5pm, Sat 9am–2pm. Book online or call 503-212-0678.
Frequently asked questions
Can I smile in my passport photo?
The State Department allows a natural smile if your eyes are open and your mouth is closed.
Can I wear glasses?
No, unless you include a signed doctor’s statement explaining why they can’t be removed.
Can I take my own passport photo at home?
You can, but it must meet every rule, and home photos are often rejected for lighting and background problems.
