US Passport Photo Size — 2×2 Inches
US passport applications require a 2×2 inch photo with a plain white background. Crop and prep yours at home — free, no booth visit.
- ✓US passport book and card applications
- ✓DS-160 visa photo requirements
- ✓Renewal by mail photo specs
- ✓Print at CVS, Walgreens, or Walmart
US passport photo dimensions explained
The US Department of State requires passport photos measuring 2×2 inches (51×51 mm) with the head height between 1 inch and 1⅜ inches (25–35 mm) from chin to top of hair. The background must be plain white or off-white with no shadows, glasses (in most cases), or uniforms. Digital uploads for DS-160 visa applications follow the same aspect ratio. Our US Passport Photo tool crops to exact specifications and replaces busy backgrounds with compliant white.
How to make a US passport photo at home
Stand against a plain white wall in even, natural light. Have someone photograph you straight-on from 4–6 feet away. Upload to our US Passport Photo tool, adjust the crop so your head fits the template guides, and download a print-ready file. Print on photo paper at 2×2 inches or use our sheet layout for multiple copies. Verify current requirements on travel.state.gov before submitting.
Frequently Asked Questions
What size is a US passport photo?
2×2 inches (51×51 mm) square with a plain white or off-white background.
Can I take a US passport photo at home?
Yes. Use our tool to crop and prep a phone photo to official dimensions.
What is the digital file size limit?
DS-160 accepts JPEG files between 54KB and 10MB. Compress with our Resize to 100KB tool if needed.
Also available as our general US Passport Photo.