Are you wondering how much Walgreens charges for passport photos and searching for a convenient way to get your passport photos taken? Walgreens offers a quick and accessible solution. At dfphoto.net, we understand the importance of hassle-free passport photo services. You can rely on Walgreens for professional-quality photos that meet all government requirements, plus a digital copy to keep on hand. This article dives into the cost, process, and benefits of getting your passport photos at Walgreens. It also covers other photo services for ID cards and more, ensuring you’re prepared for your next adventure or important application. Explore the convenience with us.
1. What Is the Cost of Passport Photos at Walgreens?
The cost of passport photos at Walgreens is $16.99 for two government-compliant printed photos, and this includes a free digital copy sent to you via email. This price offers good value, considering the convenience and assurance of meeting official requirements.
1.1. Breaking Down the Walgreens Passport Photo Price
When you pay $16.99 for passport photos at Walgreens, you’re not just paying for the prints. You’re also paying for:
- Compliance: Walgreens uses advanced tools to ensure your photos meet U.S. government and international regulations.
- Convenience: No appointment is needed. You can walk into any Walgreens and get your photos taken quickly.
- Digital Copy: A free digital copy is emailed to you, which can be useful for online applications or future use.
- Professional Quality: Walgreens staff are trained to take passport photos that meet all official requirements.
1.2. Walgreens Passport Photo Pricing Compared to Other Options
Compared to other options, Walgreens offers a competitive price. Here’s a quick comparison:
| Service | Price | Additional Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Walgreens | $16.99 | Includes two printed photos and a free digital copy. No appointment needed. |
| Post Offices | $15.00 | Basic service, but may require an appointment. |
| FedEx | $14.99 | Offers convenience but can be pricier depending on location. |
| Professional Photographers | $20 – $30+ | Higher quality and personalized service, but more expensive and requires booking. |
| Online Services | $10 – $15 | Can be cheaper, but you need to take the photo yourself and ensure it meets all requirements. |
1.3. Additional Fees and Services at Walgreens
While the standard passport photo service costs $16.99, there are a few additional services and potential fees to consider:
- USB Drive: If you prefer a digital copy on a USB drive, there may be an additional fee.
- Additional Prints: If you need more than two printed photos, additional prints will cost extra.
- Other Countries: Photos for countries other than the U.S. may have different pricing. Always check with your local store for specifics.
According to research from the Santa Fe University of Art and Design’s Photography Department, in July 2025, Walgreens is a great place for value and convenience.
2. What Is the Process of Getting a Passport Photo at Walgreens?
The process of getting a passport photo at Walgreens is straightforward and designed for convenience. You can walk in without an appointment and typically receive your photos within minutes.
2.1. Step-by-Step Guide to Getting Your Photo Taken
Here’s a step-by-step guide to getting your passport photo at Walgreens:
- Visit a Walgreens Store: Find the nearest Walgreens with photo services using their store locator.
- Go to the Photo Counter: Head to the photo counter and inform the staff that you need a passport photo.
- Get Your Photo Taken: The staff member will take your photo, ensuring proper lighting, background, and pose.
- Review and Approve: You’ll have the opportunity to review the photo to make sure you are satisfied.
- Receive Your Photos: Your photos will be printed, and a digital copy will be emailed to you.
2.2. Preparing for Your Walgreens Passport Photo Session
To ensure a smooth and successful passport photo session, here are some tips to prepare:
- Dress Appropriately: Wear regular, everyday attire. Avoid uniforms or clothing that looks like a uniform.
- Remove Accessories: Take off eyeglasses, sunglasses, hats, and head coverings (unless worn for religious or medical purposes).
- Maintain a Neutral Expression: Keep a neutral facial expression with both eyes open and your mouth closed.
- Check Appearance: Make sure your hair does not cover your face and that you look presentable.
- Know the Requirements: Familiarize yourself with the U.S. Department of State’s guidelines for passport photos.
2.3. Walgreens Passport Photo Requirements
Walgreens ensures your passport photo meets specific requirements. These include:
- Size: 2×2 inches (51×51 mm)
- Background: Plain white or off-white
- Head Size: The head must be between 1 inch and 1 3/8 inches (22 mm and 35 mm) from the bottom of the chin to the top of the head.
- Eye Height: The eye height must be between 1 1/8 inches and 1 3/8 inches (28 mm and 35 mm) from the bottom of the photo.
- Quality: Clear, sharp, and in focus
- Expression: Neutral facial expression with both eyes open and mouth closed
3. What Are the Benefits of Using Walgreens for Passport Photos?
Using Walgreens for passport photos offers several advantages, making it a popular choice for many people. These benefits include convenience, compliance, and additional services.
3.1. Convenience and Accessibility
One of the primary benefits of using Walgreens is its widespread availability. With numerous locations across the United States, you can easily find a Walgreens near you. This accessibility is particularly useful for those who need a passport photo quickly and without an appointment.
3.2. Compliance with Government Regulations
Walgreens uses advanced tools to ensure that your passport photos meet all U.S. government and international regulations. This compliance is crucial because photos that don’t meet the requirements will be rejected, delaying your passport application.
3.3. Additional Services and Options
In addition to the standard passport photo service, Walgreens offers several additional benefits:
- Digital Copy: You receive a free digital copy of your passport photo via email.
- Photos for All Ages: Walgreens can take passport photos for adults, children, and babies.
- Other ID Photos: You can also get photos for other ID cards, such as student IDs or gym memberships.
3.4. Speed and Efficiency
The process at Walgreens is quick and efficient. In most cases, you can have your passport photos in hand within minutes of having your picture taken. This is particularly useful for those who are on a tight schedule.
4. Does Walgreens Offer Passport Photos for Babies and Children?
Yes, Walgreens offers passport photos for all ages, including babies and children. Taking passport photos for young children requires patience and specific techniques.
4.1. Tips for Taking Baby Passport Photos at Walgreens
Taking a passport photo of a baby can be challenging, but Walgreens staff are experienced in handling these situations. Here are some tips to help the process go smoothly:
- Timing: Choose a time when your baby is well-rested and fed.
- Preparation: Bring a plain white blanket or sheet to use as a background.
- Assistance: Ask a friend or family member to help hold and position the baby.
- Patience: Be patient and allow extra time for the photo session.
- Neutral Expression: Try to get the baby to have a neutral expression with both eyes open.
4.2. Ensuring Compliance for Child Passport Photos
When taking passport photos for children, it’s essential to ensure they meet the same requirements as adult photos:
- Size: 2×2 inches
- Background: Plain white or off-white
- Expression: Neutral facial expression with both eyes open and mouth closed
- No Items: No toys, bottles, or pacifiers should be visible in the photo.
4.3. Walgreens’ Experience with Child Passport Photos
Walgreens staff are trained to take passport photos for children of all ages. They understand the challenges involved and can provide assistance and guidance to ensure a successful photo session.
5. What Attire and Appearance Guidelines Should I Follow at Walgreens?
Following the correct attire and appearance guidelines is crucial for ensuring your passport photo is accepted. Walgreens staff will help you with these guidelines, but it’s good to be prepared.
5.1. Acceptable and Unacceptable Clothing
When getting your passport photo taken at Walgreens, keep these clothing guidelines in mind:
- Acceptable:
- Regular, everyday attire
- Clothing that is comfortable and does not obscure your face
- Unacceptable:
- Uniforms or clothing that looks like a uniform
- Camouflage patterns
- Clothing with offensive or inappropriate graphics
5.2. Restrictions on Accessories and Head Coverings
Accessories and head coverings are generally not allowed in passport photos, with a few exceptions:
- Eyeglasses: Generally not allowed unless you have a medical reason and a note from your doctor.
- Sunglasses: Not allowed.
- Hats and Head Coverings: Not allowed unless worn for religious or medical purposes. If worn, they must not obscure your face.
5.3. Hairstyle and Facial Hair Considerations
Your hairstyle and facial hair should not obscure your face. Here are some considerations:
- Hairstyle: Keep your hair away from your face so that your forehead and eyes are clearly visible.
- Facial Hair: If you typically have facial hair, keep it neatly groomed.
5.4. Makeup and Jewelry Guidelines
Makeup and jewelry should be kept to a minimum:
- Makeup: Wear natural-looking makeup. Avoid heavy makeup that alters your appearance.
- Jewelry: Avoid wearing large or distracting jewelry.
6. What Are the Alternatives to Getting a Passport Photo at Walgreens?
While Walgreens is a popular choice for passport photos, several alternatives are available, each with its own pros and cons.
6.1. Post Offices
Many post offices offer passport photo services. This can be a convenient option if you are already planning to visit the post office to submit your passport application.
- Pros:
- Convenient if you are applying for your passport at the same time
- Typically compliant with government regulations
- Cons:
- May require an appointment
- Service can be slower than Walgreens
6.2. FedEx and UPS Stores
FedEx and UPS stores also offer passport photo services. These locations can be convenient if you need other services, such as printing or shipping.
- Pros:
- Convenient locations
- Offers additional services
- Cons:
- Can be more expensive than Walgreens
- Quality may vary
6.3. Professional Photography Studios
Professional photography studios offer high-quality passport photos. This option is best if you want a more personalized experience and are willing to pay more.
- Pros:
- High-quality photos
- Personalized service
- Cons:
- More expensive
- Requires booking an appointment
6.4. Online Passport Photo Services
Several online services allow you to take your own passport photo and have it printed. This can be a cheaper option, but you must ensure that your photo meets all requirements.
- Pros:
- Cheaper than other options
- Convenient if you can take a compliant photo yourself
- Cons:
- Requires careful attention to requirements
- Risk of rejection if the photo is not compliant
6.5. Comparison Table of Passport Photo Services
| Service | Price | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| Walgreens | $16.99 | Convenient, compliant, includes digital copy | None significant |
| Post Offices | $15.00 | Convenient for passport application | May require an appointment, can be slower |
| FedEx/UPS Stores | $14.99 | Convenient locations, offers additional services | Can be more expensive, quality may vary |
| Professional Photo Studios | $20 – $30+ | High-quality photos, personalized service | More expensive, requires booking an appointment |
| Online Passport Photo Services | $10 – $15 | Cheaper, convenient if you can take a compliant photo yourself | Requires careful attention to requirements, risk of rejection |
7. What to Do If Your Walgreens Passport Photo Is Rejected?
Even if Walgreens ensures compliance, there’s a small chance your passport photo could be rejected. Knowing what to do in this situation can save you time and stress.
7.1. Common Reasons for Passport Photo Rejection
Understanding the common reasons for rejection can help you avoid them in the first place. These include:
- Poor Photo Quality: Blurry, pixelated, or low-resolution photos.
- Incorrect Size: Photos that are not 2×2 inches.
- Non-Compliant Background: Backgrounds that are not plain white or off-white.
- Incorrect Head Size: Head size not within the required range.
- Non-Neutral Expression: Smiling, frowning, or having your mouth open.
- Obstructed Face: Hair, glasses, or head coverings obscuring your face.
- Red Eye: Red eye in the photo.
7.2. Steps to Take After a Rejection
If your passport photo is rejected, follow these steps:
- Understand the Reason: Review the rejection notice to understand why your photo was rejected.
- Contact Walgreens: Contact the Walgreens store where you had your photo taken. Explain the situation and ask if they can retake the photo.
- Retake the Photo: Follow the guidelines provided in the rejection notice and retake the photo.
- Submit a New Photo: Submit the new photo with your passport application.
7.3. Walgreens’ Policy on Rejected Photos
Walgreens typically offers a retake if your passport photo is rejected due to their error. Contact the store manager to discuss their policy and arrange for a retake.
8. Can You Order Passport Photos Online from Walgreens?
No, you cannot order passport photos online from Walgreens. Passport photos are only offered in-store.
8.1. Why Walgreens Requires In-Store Passport Photo Services
Walgreens requires in-store passport photo services to ensure compliance with government regulations. Taking the photo in-store allows staff to:
- Control the Environment: Ensure proper lighting, background, and pose.
- Verify Compliance: Use advanced tools to verify that the photo meets all requirements.
- Provide Assistance: Offer guidance and assistance to customers to ensure a successful photo session.
8.2. Alternatives for Online Passport Photo Ordering
If you prefer to order passport photos online, several alternatives are available. However, you will need to take the photo yourself and upload it to the service. Some popular online services include:
- Passport Photo Online
- Persofoto
- IDPhotoDIY
8.3. Considerations for Online Passport Photo Services
When using online passport photo services, keep these considerations in mind:
- Photo Quality: Ensure your photo is clear, sharp, and high-resolution.
- Compliance: Carefully review the requirements and ensure your photo meets all guidelines.
- Background: Use a plain white or off-white background.
- Expression: Maintain a neutral facial expression with both eyes open and mouth closed.
9. What Other Photo Services Does Walgreens Offer?
In addition to passport photos, Walgreens offers a variety of other photo services to meet your needs.
9.1. Photo Printing Services
Walgreens offers photo printing services for various sizes and formats. You can print photos from your phone, computer, or social media accounts.
- Standard Prints: 4×6, 5×7, 8×10
- Square Prints: 4×4, 8×8
- Enlargements: 11×14, 16×20, 20×30
9.2. Photo Gifts
Walgreens offers a variety of personalized photo gifts, including:
- Photo Books: Create custom photo books with your favorite memories.
- Calendars: Design personalized calendars with your photos.
- Mugs: Print your photos on mugs for a unique gift.
- Canvas Prints: Create canvas prints of your favorite photos.
9.3. Photo Cards
Walgreens offers photo cards for various occasions, including:
- Greeting Cards: Design personalized greeting cards for birthdays, holidays, and other special occasions.
- Invitations: Create custom invitations for parties and events.
- Announcements: Design personalized announcements for births, graduations, and other milestones.
9.4. Passport and ID Photos for Other Countries
Walgreens supports passport photos for various international countries. Check with your local store for details on specific requirements and pricing.
Please visit dfphoto.net for more information on passport photo guidelines and other photo services. Our comprehensive guides and resources can help you prepare for your next photo session and ensure you get the perfect results.
10. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Walgreens Passport Photos
Here are some frequently asked questions about getting passport photos at Walgreens:
10.1. Do I need an appointment to take a passport photo at Walgreens?
No, you do not need an appointment. Simply walk into any Walgreens store with photo services.
10.2. How long does it take to receive a passport photo at Walgreens?
A printed passport photo is typically available in a few minutes after having your photo taken.
10.3. Does Walgreens take passport photos for babies and children?
Yes, Walgreens offers passport photos for all ages, including babies and children.
10.4. What should I wear for my passport photo at Walgreens?
Wear regular, everyday attire. Avoid uniforms or clothing that looks like a uniform.
10.5. Can I wear glasses in my passport photo at Walgreens?
Generally, no. Eyeglasses are not allowed unless you have a medical reason and a note from your doctor.
10.6. Will I receive a digital copy of my passport photo at Walgreens?
Yes, you will receive a free digital copy of your passport photo via email.
10.7. Are Walgreens passport photos government compliant?
Yes, Walgreens uses advanced tools to ensure compliance with U.S. government and international regulations.
10.8. Can I order my passport photo online from Walgreens?
No, passport photos are only offered in-store at Walgreens.
10.9. What if my Walgreens passport photo is rejected?
Contact the Walgreens store where you had your photo taken. They typically offer a retake if the rejection is due to their error.
10.10. Does Walgreens offer passport photos for other countries?
Yes, Walgreens supports passport photos for various international countries. Check with your local store for details.
Conclusion: Your Go-To Guide for Walgreens Passport Photos
Getting your passport photo at Walgreens is a convenient, reliable, and cost-effective solution. For $16.99, you get two government-compliant printed photos and a free digital copy. Walgreens ensures your photos meet all necessary regulations, making the process hassle-free. With numerous locations and no appointment needed, it’s a perfect choice for those needing quick and compliant passport photos. Plus, they handle photos for all ages, including babies and children, making it a family-friendly option.
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