Applying for or renewing a U.S. passport in 2026? The photo is the single most common reason applications get delayed. The U.S. Department of State publishes precise specifications, and they have not loosened — if anything, acceptance is now checked by automated facial-recognition software at processing centers. Here is the complete, up-to-date checklist straight from the official requirements.
What size does a US passport photo need to be in 2026?
A U.S. passport photo must be 2 x 2 inches (51 x 51 mm), printed in color. Within that square, your head — measured from the bottom of the chin to the top of the head — must be between 1 inch and 1 3/8 inches (25 mm to 35 mm). Your face should fill roughly 50% of the frame. Photos that are cropped too tight or too loose are the number-one rejection trigger.
For digital uploads, the State Department requires a square JPEG between 600 x 600 and 1200 x 1200 pixels, in the sRGB color space, with a file size under the system limit. The photo must be taken within the last 6 months to reflect your current appearance.
What background and lighting are required?
The background must be plain white or off-white, with no patterns, shadows, or objects behind you. Lighting must be even — shadows cast on your face or on the wall behind you are an automatic fail. Use front-facing, diffused light and stand at least a half-meter from the backdrop to avoid casting a shadow.
Can I wear glasses or a hat?
No glasses. Since November 2016, the State Department prohibits eyeglasses in passport photos except in rare documented medical cases requiring a signed doctor's statement. Remove them. No hats or head coverings are allowed unless worn daily for religious purposes or medical reasons, and even then your full face must be visible from the bottom of the chin to the top of the forehead.
What expression and clothing are acceptable?
Face the camera directly with both eyes open and a neutral expression or a natural smile. Wear normal street clothes — uniforms, camouflage, and clothing that resembles a uniform are not permitted. Avoid white tops, which can blend into the white background. Do not wear headphones, wireless devices, or anything that obscures your face.
Quick pre-submission checklist
- 2 x 2 inches, color, taken within 6 months
- Head 25–35 mm (1 to 1 3/8 in) from chin to crown
- Plain white/off-white background, no shadows
- No glasses, no hats (religious/medical exceptions only)
- Neutral expression, eyes open, facing forward
- Digital: 600x600–1200x1200 px square JPEG
If you check your photo against this list before you submit, you remove the most common cause of passport processing delays. Tools like Snapassport validate each of these rules automatically against the official spec before you pay for printing.