US Passport Photo for Online Renewal
Need a US passport photo for online renewal? PhotoPass helps you check and crop your original photo before you upload it to the official government application. We measure it against current passport rules — square framing, head size, shoulder crop, and a plain white or off-white background.
If your photo is too dark, too close, tilted, or taken against the wrong background, we tell you to retake it instead of “fixing” it. When it passes, download a file sized for online renewal and a separate 4×6 print sheet with four 2×2 photos for mail or in-person use.
US passport photo rules (2×2)
| Photo size | 2×2 in (51×51 mm) |
| Pixels | 600×600 |
| Background | Plain white or off-white |
| Head size | 1–1⅜ in (25–35 mm), ~50–69% of frame |
| Editing | No filters, retouching, or AI changes — retake instead |
Frequently asked questions
Can I use an edited or AI-enhanced photo for online renewal?
No. The State Department requires an original, unedited photo and prohibits filters, retouching, and AI changes. If your background or lighting is wrong, retake the photo — do not edit it.
What size should a digital passport photo be for online renewal?
A 2×2 inch (51×51 mm) square. For online renewal, the State Department accepts a digital file in its supported pixel and file-size range. PhotoPass crops and validates your original to fit.
Can Walgreens or CVS give me a digital passport photo?
Yes. Walgreens includes a free emailed digital copy; CVS offers an emailed copy for $3.99 or USB for $10.99. Those are in-store workflows; PhotoPass is the online option when you already have a photo.
Can I take my own US passport photo at home?
Yes, if it meets the rules: plain white or off-white background, correct head size, neutral expression, eyes open, no glasses, and no digital editing.
What if the checker says I need to retake the photo?
Retake it — don't retouch. The most common fixes are moving to a plain white wall, stepping back so your head is the right size, and removing glasses.
PhotoPass helps check, crop, and prepare your original photo. We do not submit your passport application. Renew only on the official State Department .gov website. Not affiliated with the U.S. government.