Official United States Specifications

US Passport Photo Requirements & Free Generator

2×2 inches · White background · Head 50–69% of frame · 600×600 px at 300 DPI

2 free credits · Compliant sizing · No sign-up

U.S. Passport Photo Specifications

Print Size

2×2 inches (51×51 mm)

Digital Size

600×600 px

Background

White

Head Size Ratio

50–69% of frame

Resolution

300 DPI

Last Updated

2026-09-01

U.S. Passport Photo Requirements

Your photo must meet all of the following requirements to be accepted.

  • Photo must be 2×2 inches (51×51 mm) in print
  • Head height must be between 1 inch and 1⅜ inches (25–35 mm) from chin to top of head
  • Plain white or off-white background only
  • Full face, front view with both eyes open
  • Taken within the last 6 months
  • No glasses — removed from requirements since November 2016
  • Neutral facial expression or natural smile
  • No head coverings except for religious purposes
  • Photo must be in color, not black and white

Common Rejection Reasons

Avoid these common mistakes that cause United States passport photos to be rejected.

Head size outside 50–69% of frame height
Shadows on face or background
Glasses visible in photo
Background not white or off-white
Photo older than 6 months
Red-eye or digital alteration detected
Incorrect image dimensions for online submission

How to Get Your United States Passport Photo

  1. 1

    Upload a clear, front-facing selfie taken in even lighting. Remove glasses and any head coverings not worn for religious reasons.

  2. 2

    Select the Passport style and choose "United States" as your target country. ProShotAI applies the correct 2×2 inches (51×51 mm) dimensions and white background.

  3. 3

    Review the compliance report — it checks resolution, background color, and sizing against official requirements.

  4. 4

    Download your compliant photo. Use the "Print Layout" option to arrange multiple photos on a standard print sheet for physical submission.

Generate Your United States Passport Photo Now

Get a compliant U.S. Passport photo from your selfie in seconds. No sign-up required.

United States Passport Photo FAQ

What size is a United States passport photo?

A U.S. Passport photo must be 2×2 inches (51×51 mm) in print. For digital submissions, the recommended size is 600×600 pixels at 300 DPI.

What background color is required for United States passport photos?

United States passport photos require a white background. The background must be uniform with no patterns, shadows, or other people visible.

Can I use an AI-generated photo for my United States passport?

Yes, as long as the photo meets all official specifications — correct dimensions, background color, head size ratio (50–69% of frame), and is an unaltered representation of your current appearance. ProShotAI generates photos that conform to U.S. Passport requirements.

Why do United States passport photos get rejected?

Common rejection reasons include: Head size outside 50–69% of frame height; Shadows on face or background; Glasses visible in photo; Background not white or off-white. Using an AI tool with built-in compliance checking helps avoid these issues before you submit.