Obtaining a passport photo is a crucial step in the passport application process. You might be wondering, “Where Get Passport Photo near me?” or “where can I get a passport photo taken professionally?”. Finding a convenient and reliable place that guarantees compliant photos is essential to avoid delays in your application. Luckily, numerous options are available, and one standout choice for speed and convenience is Walgreens.
Walgreens Passport Photo Services: Fast, Reliable, and Near You
Walgreens offers a straightforward and efficient solution for your passport photo needs. Known for its accessibility and quick service, Walgreens provides passport photo services at most of its locations. In typically one hour or less, you can walk out with two professionally printed passport photos that adhere to stringent government regulations, including those set by the U.S. Department of State (U.S. Department of State’s website). These photos are not just conveniently produced; they are also quality-assured to meet official standards for size, background, and composition.
To easily locate a Walgreens offering passport photo services, you can use their online store locator. Simply visit the Walgreens Same Day Pickup Location finder to pinpoint the nearest participating store. This ensures you can quickly find a “passport photo Walgreens” location without hassle.
This image shows a happy customer receiving their passport photos at the Walgreens photo counter, highlighting the ease and accessibility of the service.
No Appointment Needed for Passport Photos at Walgreens
One of the key advantages of choosing Walgreens for your passport photos is the walk-in convenience. You do not need to schedule an appointment in advance. Just visit the photo counter at your local Walgreens during their operating hours and request assistance from a staff member. This spontaneous accessibility makes Walgreens an ideal choice for those needing passport photos urgently or without prior planning.
How Much Do Passport Photos Cost at Walgreens?
Cost is always a consideration, and Walgreens offers competitive pricing for passport photos. For $16.99, you receive two government-compliant printed passport photos. Adding even more value, Walgreens includes a FREE digital copy of your passport photo sent directly to your email address. This digital copy can be useful for online passport applications or for your records. This price point makes “passport photo cost Walgreens” an attractive and affordable option.
Quick Turnaround: Get Your Passport Photos in Minutes at Walgreens
Time is of the essence, especially when preparing for travel. Walgreens understands this urgency and provides a remarkably fast turnaround time. In most cases, your printed passport photos will be ready within minutes after your photo is taken. This rapid service ensures you can quickly complete this step of your passport application process and move forward with your travel plans.
Understanding Passport Photo Requirements to Avoid Rejection
To ensure your passport photo is accepted without issues, it’s crucial to understand the specific requirements set by passport authorities. While services like Walgreens are designed to meet these standards, knowing the guidelines yourself adds an extra layer of confidence.
Dress Code for Passport Photos: What to Wear and What to Avoid
Your attire in a passport photo is more regulated than you might think. Certain items are prohibited to ensure your photo clearly represents your identity:
- Eyeglasses or sunglasses: These are not permitted as they can obstruct your eyes. Medical exceptions may apply, but generally, glasses should be removed.
- Hats or head coverings: Hats and head coverings are typically not allowed, unless worn daily for religious or medical reasons. Even then, they should not obscure your facial features.
- Uniforms, clothing that looks like a uniform, or camouflage patterns: Passport photos should not depict you in clothing that could be perceived as representing an official position or lacking neutrality.
- Headphones or wireless devices: These items are distracting and should not be visible in your photo.
- Masks: Face masks, including medical masks, are not permitted in passport photos.
For comprehensive details on all passport photo requirements, it is advisable to consult the U.S. Department of State’s website.
This image visually demonstrates acceptable and unacceptable attire for a passport photo, emphasizing the importance of following guidelines.
Posing for Your Passport Photo: Achieving the Right Look
Your pose in a passport photo is equally important to ensure clarity and identification. The required pose is quite specific:
- Neutral facial expression: You should maintain a neutral expression. Smiling widely or frowning is not permitted.
- Both eyes open: Ensure both eyes are clearly visible and open.
- Mouth closed: Your mouth should be closed in the photo.
These requirements are in place to facilitate facial recognition and ensure consistent identification across border controls and official documents.
Passport Photos for Babies, Children, and Adults at Walgreens
Walgreens is equipped to take passport photos for individuals of all ages, including infants and young children. Taking photos of babies can be challenging, but Walgreens staff are experienced in accommodating the unique needs of photographing infants to meet passport photo requirements. This makes it a convenient option for families needing passport photos for all members.
Digital and Printed Passport Photos: Choosing the Right Format
While printed passport photos are traditionally required for passport applications, having a digital copy offers added flexibility. Walgreens provides both. You will receive two printed 2×2 inch passport photos and the option to have a digital copy emailed to you at no extra charge. A digital copy on a USB drive is also available for a small additional fee, offering another way to store and access your digital passport photo.
Can You Order Passport Photos Online from Walgreens?
Currently, Walgreens passport photo service is exclusively offered in-store. You cannot order passport photos online for printing and mailing. This in-store approach ensures immediate quality checks and compliance verification before you leave with your photos.
Walgreens and Your Passport Application Journey
It’s important to clarify the extent of Walgreens’ services regarding passport applications.
Walgreens is Not a Passport Application Acceptance Facility
While Walgreens excels at providing passport photos, it is not an official passport application acceptance facility. You cannot submit your passport application documents or obtain a passport directly at Walgreens. Walgreens focuses solely on providing compliant passport photos.
Where to Submit Your Passport Application
To submit your passport application, you will need to visit an authorized acceptance facility. These include:
- Authorized Post Offices: Many post offices are designated passport acceptance facilities.
- Clerks of Court: Check with your local clerk of court for passport services.
- Regional Passport Agencies: For expedited services, regional passport agencies are available in major cities.
For detailed information on where and how to apply for a passport, visit the U.S. Department of State’s website.
Child Passport Applications: In-Person Submission Required
Passport applications for children under the age of 16 have specific requirements, including mandatory in-person submission. Both parents or legal guardians, along with the child, must be present when applying for a child’s passport. Again, Walgreens can provide the necessary photos, but the application itself must be submitted at an authorized passport acceptance facility.
More Than Just Passports: Other Uses for Your Passport Photos
Passport photos, due to their standardized size and format, are not limited to just passport applications. They are also perfectly suitable for various other identification needs, such as:
- Student IDs: Many educational institutions use passport-style photos for student identification cards.
- Employee Badges: Companies often require standardized photos for employee badges.
- Gym Memberships: Gyms may use these photos for member identification cards.
- Various ID Cards: Any situation requiring a standard 2×2 inch photograph can utilize passport photos.
Passport Photos and the REAL ID Act: What You Need to Know
The REAL ID Act introduces enhanced security standards for domestic air travel within the United States. Starting May 7, 2025, a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or another acceptable form of identification will be required for domestic flights. Among the acceptable identification documents is a valid U.S. passport. While a passport card or book serves as REAL ID compliant identification, the passport photo itself is not directly related to REAL ID compliance but is a component of obtaining a passport which is compliant. For more information on REAL ID, visit the Department of Homeland Security’s DHS REAL ID website.
Walgreens Supports Passport Photos for Various Countries
While primarily focused on U.S. passport photo standards, Walgreens also offers services for passport photos needed for other countries. It is advisable to check with your local Walgreens store to confirm if they support the specific size and requirements for the country you need. They often can accommodate various international standards.
Conclusion
When you’re looking for “where to get passport photo”, Walgreens stands out as a highly accessible, fast, and reliable option. With no appointments necessary, quick turnaround times, and guaranteed government compliance, Walgreens simplifies the process of obtaining passport photos. Whether for a U.S. passport or other ID needs, Walgreens provides a convenient solution to get you one step closer to your travel or identification goals. Remember to check the U.S. Department of State’s website for the most up-to-date official requirements and use the Walgreens store locator to find your nearest location.
