US passport photo checker
Snap it from your phone, get the green light, download your photo and a compliance report. Checked against the official United States spec before you submit — nothing uploaded.
US Passport photo requirements
2×2 inches (51×51 mm), white background, head 50–69% of the frame. Verified against the US State Department spec. No AI editing — compliant with the January 2026 no-alteration rule.
- 2×2 inches (51×51 mm); digital 600×600 px minimum, JPEG
- Head 50–69% of photo height — chin to top of head is 1 to 1⅜ inches (25–35 mm)
- Plain white or off-white background, free of shadows, textures or objects
- Neutral expression, both eyes open and visible, mouth closed, facing camera directly
- No glasses (since 2016); medical exemption requires a signed doctor's note
- No head coverings unless worn daily for religious purposes
- Original unedited photo — no filters, no AI edits (rejected by State Dept since Jan 2026)
- Taken within the last 6 months, in colour
Common rejection reasons
- Background reads grey — white wall underexposed by the camera
- Head outside the 50–69% band (too small or too large)
- Shadows under the nose, chin, or on the background
- Digital enhancement or AI editing — rejected since January 2026
- Smiling or open mouth
- Glasses in the photo
Frequently asked questions
What size is a US passport photo?
2×2 inches (51×51 mm). For digital submission it must be square, at least 600×600 pixels, JPEG.
Can I use AI to edit my US passport photo in 2026?
No. As of January 2026 the US State Department rejects digitally enhanced or AI-altered passport photos, including background replacement and beauty filters.
How big should my head be in the photo?
Chin to crown must be 50–69% of the photo height — about 1 to 1⅜ inches (25–35 mm) in a 2-inch photo.
Are glasses allowed?
No. Glasses have not been permitted since 2016, except in rare cases with a signed medical exemption from a doctor.