MyApprovedPhoto logoMyApprovedPhoto
← All documents

U.S. Passport Photo — Online, Approved First Time

Take or upload a photo. Our AI cuts it to the exact official spec, fixes the background and verifies every measurable rule — on your device, in seconds.

U.S. Passport photo requirements

Print size51 × 51 mm at 300 DPI
Digital size51×51mm @ 300 DPI
Head height50–69% of photo height
Eye line56–69% from bottom edge
Backgroundwhite
  • Taken within the last 6 months
  • No glasses (since Nov 2016 rule, rare pre-approved medical exceptions only)
  • Neutral expression or natural smile, both eyes open
  • No uniforms, no hats or head coverings except religious/medical with documentation
  • Background must be plain white or off-white — patterns/shadows cause rejection

Requirements verified against the official authority: travel.state.gov

U.S. Passport photo — frequently asked questions

What size does a u.s. passport photo need to be?

51×51mm at 300 DPI, or 51×51mm @ 300 DPI if submitting digitally.

What background do I need for a United States u.s. passport?

The background must be white, plain, and evenly lit with no shadows or patterns.

How much of the photo should my head take up?

Your head (chin to crown) should fill 50–69% of the photo's height, with your eyes positioned 56–69% up from the bottom edge.

What else rejects a u.s. passport photo?

Taken within the last 6 months No glasses (since Nov 2016 rule, rare pre-approved medical exceptions only) Neutral expression or natural smile, both eyes open No uniforms, no hats or head coverings except religious/medical with documentation Background must be plain white or off-white — patterns/shadows cause rejection

Can I use a selfie or a photo from my phone?

Yes — take the photo against a plain wall in good, even light, then upload it. Our AI detects your face and crops it to the exact United States spec automatically; nothing is uploaded to a server.

How much does a u.s. passport photo cost?

$14.99, one-time, for the compliant digital file and a print-ready version. No subscription.

Other documents people also need