Passport Photo Cost: Price Guide & Money-Saving Tips

Need a passport photo? Expect to pay anywhere from $5 to $20, depending on where you go. This guide breaks down the costs, explores cheaper alternatives, and answers all your passport photo questions.

Key Takeaways

• Passport photo costs vary widely, from around $5 at retail stores to $20+ at professional services.
• Drugstores and big box stores (Walmart, Target, CVS, Walgreens) generally offer the most affordable options.
• AAA members often receive free passport photos as a benefit.
• DIY passport photos can save money, but require careful attention to official guidelines.
• Failing to meet passport photo requirements can lead to application delays or rejection.

Introduction

Getting a passport photo is a necessary step in applying for or renewing your U.S. passport. While it might seem like a minor detail, a compliant photo is crucial to avoid delays or even rejection of your application. But how much should you expect to pay for this essential service? The cost of passport photos can vary significantly depending on where you choose to get them taken. This guide will break down the pricing at different locations, explore options for saving money, and provide tips for ensuring your photo meets all the necessary requirements.

What & Why Passport Photos Matter

What are passport photos? Passport photos are specific photographs required by governments for identification documents, primarily passports. These photos adhere to strict guidelines regarding size, background, pose, and image quality to ensure accurate identification and security.

Why are they important? A compliant passport photo is essential for a successful passport application. Non-compliant photos are a leading cause of application delays and rejections, potentially disrupting travel plans. The strict guidelines are in place to ensure the photo accurately represents the applicant and can be used for facial recognition technology.

Who needs them? Anyone applying for a new passport or renewing an existing one generally needs to submit a passport photo. Children and infants also require their own passport photos. — Sam Pittman Fired? Arkansas Football Coach Status

When do you need them? You need a passport photo when you submit your application for a new passport or renewal. It's best to get your photo taken well in advance of your travel dates to allow time for processing.

Where can you get them? Passport photos are available at various locations, including drugstores, retail stores, professional photography studios, and online services. You can even take them yourself if you follow the guidelines carefully.

Why do costs vary? The cost of passport photos depends on the service provider, equipment used, and convenience offered. Professional studios often charge more due to their expertise and equipment, while retail stores may offer lower prices due to higher volume and less personalized service. DIY options can be the cheapest but require careful attention to detail.

How Much Do Passport Photos Cost? A Price Breakdown

Here's a breakdown of typical passport photo costs at different locations:

• Drugstores (CVS, Walgreens, Rite Aid): $15 - $18
• Big Box Stores (Walmart, Target, Costco): $5 - $15
• Shipping Stores (UPS, FedEx): $12 - $18
• AAA: Free (for members) to $10 (for non-members)
• Post Offices: $15
• Professional Photography Studios: $20+
• Online Services: $8 - $15
• DIY (Do-It-Yourself): $0 - $5 (printing costs)

This table provides a general overview, and prices can vary by location and specific services offered. It's always a good idea to call ahead to confirm pricing and availability.

Examples & Use Cases: Where to Get Your Photo

Let's look at specific examples of where you can get your passport photo and when each option might be the best choice:

• Drugstores (CVS, Walgreens, Rite Aid): These are convenient options, especially if you need a photo quickly. They offer a good balance of price and convenience, with locations widely available. Often, you can schedule an appointment online or simply walk in.

  • Use Case: You need a passport photo within a day or two and prefer a reliable service without a high cost.

• Big Box Stores (Walmart, Target, Costco): These stores often offer the lowest prices on passport photos. However, wait times can sometimes be longer, and the quality may not be as consistent as at other locations. Costco may require a membership.

  • Use Case: You're on a tight budget and don't need the photo urgently.

• Shipping Stores (UPS, FedEx): These stores are a convenient option if you're already shipping documents or other items. They offer passport photo services, but prices are typically in the mid-range.

  • Use Case: You need to ship documents and want to get your passport photo done in the same trip.

• AAA: If you're an AAA member, you can often get free passport photos as a benefit. This is a significant cost saving if you're already a member. Non-members may be able to get photos at a discounted rate.

  • Use Case: You're an AAA member and want to take advantage of the free photo benefit.

• Post Offices: Some post offices offer passport photo services, which can be convenient if you're also applying for your passport in person. Prices are generally comparable to drugstores.

  • Use Case: You're applying for your passport in person at a post office and want to get your photo done at the same time.

• Professional Photography Studios: These studios offer the highest level of expertise and quality, but they also come with the highest price tag. This is a good option if you want a guaranteed compliant photo and personalized service.

  • Use Case: You want the highest possible quality photo and are willing to pay a premium for it. Or, if you have had difficulty getting an acceptable photo elsewhere, the expertise of a professional might be worth the extra cost.

• Online Services: Several online services allow you to upload a photo and have it formatted and printed as a passport photo. These services can be convenient, but it's crucial to choose a reputable provider and ensure they guarantee compliance with passport photo requirements.

  • Use Case: You prefer the convenience of taking a photo at home and having it processed online.

• DIY (Do-It-Yourself): Taking your own passport photo is the cheapest option, but it requires careful attention to the official guidelines. You'll need a good quality camera, a plain white background, and good lighting. You'll also need to print the photo to the correct size.

  • Use Case: You're on a very tight budget and are confident in your ability to follow the passport photo guidelines.

Best Practices & Common Mistakes for Passport Photos

Best Practices:

• Understand the Requirements: Familiarize yourself with the U.S. Department of State's passport photo requirements. This includes size, background, pose, and image quality. (See FAQs below.)
• Use a Plain White Background: The background should be plain white, without any shadows or patterns.
• Ensure Good Lighting: The photo should be evenly lit, with no shadows on your face. Natural light is best, but avoid direct sunlight.
• Maintain a Neutral Expression: Look directly at the camera with a neutral expression. No smiling, frowning, or squinting.
• Remove Eyeglasses: As of November 1, 2016, eyeglasses are generally not allowed in passport photos.
• Dress Appropriately: Avoid wearing white clothing, as it may blend in with the background. Religious attire is permitted, but it should not obscure your face.
• Print on Quality Paper: If printing your own photo, use high-quality photo paper.

Common Mistakes:

• Poor Lighting: Shadows or uneven lighting can cause rejection.
• Smiling or Non-Neutral Expression: A neutral expression is required.
• Wearing Eyeglasses: Unless medically necessary, eyeglasses are not permitted.
• Incorrect Size or Background: Photos must be the correct size and have a plain white background.
• Low-Quality Image: Blurry or pixelated photos will be rejected.
• Using an Old Photo: Your passport photo should be recent and accurately reflect your current appearance.

FAQs About Passport Photos

1. What are the specific size requirements for a U.S. passport photo?

The photo must be 2 x 2 inches (51 x 51 mm). The subject's head must be between 1 inch and 1 3/8 inches (25 - 35 mm) from the bottom of the chin to the top of the head.

2. What background is required for a passport photo?

The background must be plain white and free of shadows or distractions.

3. Can I smile in my passport photo?

You must have a neutral facial expression. Smiling, frowning, or squinting are not allowed.

4. Can I wear glasses in my passport photo?

As of November 1, 2016, eyeglasses are generally not allowed in passport photos unless you have a medical exception.

5. How recent does my passport photo need to be?

The photo should be recent and accurately reflect your current appearance, typically taken within the last six months.

6. Can I take my passport photo myself?

Yes, you can take your own passport photo, but you must adhere to all the official guidelines. Using a passport photo app or online service can help ensure compliance.

7. What happens if my passport photo is rejected?

If your passport photo is rejected, you will need to submit a new photo that meets the requirements. This can delay the processing of your passport application.

Conclusion with CTA

Getting a passport photo doesn't have to break the bank. By understanding the pricing variations and considering DIY options, you can save money while ensuring your photo meets all the requirements. Be sure to check the latest U.S. Department of State guidelines before taking your photo. — Pick N Save Hours: Find Your Local Store Times

Ready to apply for your passport? Find a passport acceptance facility near you and start your application today! — Tyreek Hill Injury: Updates & Analysis

Last updated: October 26, 2023, 16:30 UTC