A decade can bring significant changes. Think about technology, fashion, or even just personal style. With U.S. adult passports valid for ten years, it’s natural to wonder, “Can I Change My Passport Photo?” Perhaps your current photo no longer reflects your appearance, or maybe you simply don’t like it.
This article will clarify when you need to update your passport photo before your passport expires and if you can change it for purely aesthetic reasons.
Key Points to Remember:
- You can replace your passport photo if it’s flawed due to printing issues (using Form DS-5504), if your appearance has significantly changed, or even if you just want a different picture.
- Dislike your current passport photo? You can change it at any time by applying for a passport renewal, even before the expiration date.
- The fee to change your passport photo is the standard passport renewal fee, currently $130 for applicants 16 and older.
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When is a Passport Photo Change Necessary? Eligibility Explained
Generally, a significant change in your appearance necessitates updating your passport photo through a new U.S. passport application. But what constitutes a “significant change”?
Minor alterations like growing a beard, changing hairstyles, or hair color are usually acceptable and do not require a new passport photo. To see what types of photos are typically accepted, explore passport photo examples.
According to the U.S. Department of State, a new passport application (and therefore a new photo) is required in the following situations, regardless of your current passport’s expiry date:
| Condition | Description |
|---|---|
| Sustained Significant Facial Trauma | Permanent damage to bone or soft tissue (scarring) from accidents, injuries, or medical conditions. |
| Significant Facial Surgery | Cosmetic or reconstructive surgeries that substantially alter facial features or proportions. |
| Major Weight Gain or Loss | Considerable changes in facial structure due to gaining or losing a significant amount of weight. |
| Gender Transition | Transitioning genders and altering facial appearance from your originally documented sex. |
| Facial Tattoos or Piercings Changes | Removal of tattoos or piercings on the face or neck. Adding new tattoos that obscure facial features. |
The crucial factor is whether your facial features and proportions have changed to the extent that the biometric identification in your previous photo is no longer accurate.
Graphic depicting biometric facial features for passport photo identification.
Minor cosmetic procedures like Botox or lip fillers usually won’t necessitate a new passport photo. However, major transformations, surgeries, or trauma-related changes will require a new passport application and photo update.
Important Note: Children under 16 are exempt from passport photo changes due to natural aging.
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Passport Renewal: Another Way to Update Your Photo
Passport renewal is another avenue for changing your passport photo. The Department of State advises renewing your passport up to nine months before expiration. This allows you to update your photo to reflect your current appearance sooner.
While officially recommended before expiration, you can renew your U.S. passport at any time. Therefore, if you simply want to change your passport photo (even without a significant appearance change), you can apply for renewal and submit new 2×2” U.S. passport photos well before your current passport expires.
To reiterate, changing your passport photo is possible at any time. Whether due to appearance changes requiring a new application, or personal preference leading to a renewal, updating your passport photo is achievable.
PhotoAiD®: Your Solution for a Perfect Passport Photo
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Here are answers to common questions about changing your passport photo.
Can I just get a new picture on my passport? Technically, yes, but not in isolation. To get a new photo, you must apply for a passport renewal and submit Form DS-82 along with your new picture.
Can you change your passport photo before it expires? Yes, you can change your passport photo whenever you wish through the renewal process. You cannot change only the photo; renewal requires submitting all necessary documents and a new photo.
How do I change my passport photo? The only way to change your passport photo is by submitting a new passport application or passport renewal. A photo change alone is not possible; a new passport document must be issued.
What is the cost to change a passport photo? Changing your passport photo involves the cost of a new U.S. passport book, ranging from $130-$165. The price difference depends on whether you are applying for a new passport or renewing. This fee excludes photo costs and expedited service fees.
How often can I change my passport photo? There’s no limit. However, each change requires a new passport application or renewal.
When can I change my passport photo? You can change your photo during a U.S. passport renewal or by applying for a new passport if your appearance has significantly changed.
Passport Photo Updates: Final Points
Can you update your passport photo? Absolutely. For printing errors, Form DS-5504 is free. For personal preference or appearance changes, use Form DS-82 (if eligible) and pay the standard fees.
Before incurring costs, determine if a passport photo change is truly necessary. If it is, PhotoAiD® ensures you get a perfect, compliant photo, guaranteed to be accepted by U.S. passport agents.
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Simon Wojtyczka
Simon Wojtyczka is a writer with international experience and a Master’s in Applied Linguistics, specializing in culture and language.
