US Passport photos must be 2 × 2 in (600 × 600 px at 300 DPI) on a plain white background, with your head taking up 50–69% of the frame, saved as a JPEG under 240 KB. Keep a neutral expression with your mouth closed and both eyes open, and take your glasses off.
Last updated 2026-06-10 · Source: official US guidance
From selfie to US Passport
Take or upload any photo. PassPix swaps the background, frames your head to the US spec, and checks every rule before you pay.
Official US Passport requirements
The exact rules PassPix checks and renders to.
- Photo size
- 2 × 2 in
- Digital resolution
- 600 × 600 px @ 300 DPI
- Background
- plain white
- Head height
- 50–69% of photo
- Expression
- Neutral, mouth closed, eyes open
- Glasses
- Not allowed
- Max file size
- 240 KB
- Online upload
- Square JPEG, 600x600 to 1200x1200 px, taken within the last 6 months.
Source: official US guidance
How to make a US Passport photo
- 1Pick US Passport
Choose US Passport so PassPix loads the exact State Department rules.
- 2Take or upload a photo
Use your phone or webcam in even lighting, facing the camera.
- 3Let the AI check compliance
PassPix checks head size, eye line, expression, and background live, in your browser.
- 4Download
Get a compliant 2x2 digital file plus a print-ready sheet of 6.
Everything in your photo
A compliant digital photo and the correctly sized file for online applications, with a print-ready sheet on the print option.
Your digital photo
A single compliant photo at the exact size and resolution the document needs.
Print-ready sheet
Six photos laid out on a 4×6 sheet with cut lines. Print at CVS, Walgreens or Walmart for about a dollar.
Online-upload file
Sized to the exact pixels and file-size limit of the official portal, ready to attach.
US Passport photo questions
What size is a US passport photo?
2 x 2 inches (51 x 51 mm), which is 600 x 600 pixels at 300 DPI. Your head must measure between 1 inch and 1 3/8 inches from the bottom of the chin to the top of the head.
Can I wear glasses in a US passport photo?
No. Since 2016 the US State Department does not allow glasses in passport photos except in rare documented medical cases.
What background does a US passport photo need?
A plain white or off-white background with no shadows, patterns, or objects behind you. PassPix removes and replaces your background automatically.
Can I smile in a US passport photo?
A natural, neutral expression with both eyes open is required. A closed-mouth natural smile is usually accepted, but a neutral face is safest.