Applying for a passport involves several crucial steps, and one of the most important yet often overlooked is getting your passport photo right. A compliant photo ensures your application isn’t delayed or rejected. So, the question arises: Where To Go To Take Passport Photos that meet all the official requirements? Fortunately, you have several convenient options to choose from, ensuring a smooth passport application process.
When considering where to get your passport photos taken, convenience, cost, and compliance are key factors. Let’s explore some of the most accessible places that offer passport photo services:
Pharmacy Chains: Large pharmacy chains like Walgreens, CVS, and Rite Aid are popular choices for passport photos. Walgreens, in particular, is widely recognized for providing quick and compliant passport photo services. Typically, you can walk into a Walgreens store without an appointment and have your photos taken in a matter of minutes. These photos are usually ready for pickup within an hour or even faster. The staff at these locations are generally trained to take photos that adhere to government regulations regarding size, background, and pose.
Post Offices: Many United States Post Offices also offer passport photo services, alongside their passport application processing services. This can be a convenient option if you plan to submit your passport application in person at a post office. It’s advisable to check with your local post office to confirm if they provide photo services and if appointments are needed.
Professional Photo Studios: For a more personalized experience or if you have specific photo requirements (perhaps for international passports with different specifications), professional photo studios are a reliable choice. These studios have experienced photographers who are well-versed in passport photo regulations for various countries. While potentially more expensive than pharmacies or post offices, professional studios offer expertise and can handle more complex photo needs, including photos for infants or individuals with specific requirements.
AAA (For Members): If you are a AAA member, you can also take advantage of passport photo services at select AAA locations. This is often a cost-effective option for members and provides another convenient avenue for obtaining compliant passport photos. It’s recommended to check with your local AAA branch to ensure they offer this service.
What to Expect When Getting Your Passport Photo Taken:
Regardless of where you choose to go, there are some common aspects to expect when getting your passport photo taken:
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Cost: The price for passport photos generally ranges from around $15 to $20 for two photos. Walgreens passport photos, for example, are priced at $16.99 for two printed photos and include a free digital copy via email. Prices may vary slightly between locations and providers.
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Turnaround Time: One of the advantages of using pharmacies or post offices is the quick turnaround time. In many cases, printed photos are ready within minutes, and digital copies are delivered almost instantly. Professional studios might have a slightly longer turnaround depending on their workload.
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Compliance: Reputable locations guarantee that their photos comply with government regulations. They use tools and guidelines to ensure correct size, background, lighting, and pose. It’s always wise to confirm their compliance guarantee, especially if you have specific concerns.
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Digital vs. Print: Most passport photo services provide printed copies, usually two 2×2 inch photos as required by U.S. regulations. Increasingly, providers like Walgreens also offer a digital copy of your passport photo, often sent via email at no extra charge. This digital copy can be useful for online applications or for your records.
Preparing for Your Passport Photo Session:
To ensure your passport photo session goes smoothly and results in a compliant photo, keep these points in mind:
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Attire: Avoid wearing white or very light-colored clothing as the background is typically white or off-white. Do not wear uniforms, camouflage clothing, hats, or head coverings unless for religious or medical reasons. Eyeglasses and sunglasses are not allowed in passport photos. Review the detailed guidelines on the U.S. Department of State’s website for complete attire restrictions.
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Pose and Expression: You need to have a neutral facial expression with both eyes open and your mouth closed. Face the camera directly and ensure your full face is visible.
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Photos for Babies and Children: Taking passport photos of babies and young children requires extra patience. Walgreens and other providers are experienced in taking photos of infants, ensuring they meet requirements. For babies, it’s often easier to lay them down on a white sheet to get a clear shot.
Conclusion:
Getting your passport photos taken is a straightforward process thanks to numerous accessible options. Whether you opt for the convenience of a pharmacy like Walgreens, the integrated services at a post office, the expertise of a professional studio, or the member benefits of AAA, you can find a location that suits your needs. By understanding what to expect and preparing accordingly, you can ensure your passport photo is compliant and your application process remains on track. Remember to always double-check the latest passport photo requirements on the official U.S. Department of State website to avoid any potential issues.
