The current procedure for U.S. passport renewals requires applicants to mail their forms, documents, and photos to the State Department’s processing center. Compared to the process for a first time application, it requires less material. But what are the requirements for a photo for a passport renewal? And how should it be sent to the processing center?
In this article, we’ll cover all government specifications for the picture, explain how to include it in the application package, and show how PhotoAiD® can get you the necessary passport photos directly from home.
In this post you’ll find:
U.S. passport renewal photo—requirements
The Department of State gives very specific directions regarding passport photos, regulating not only the size and format, but also a long list of details of the applicant’s appearance. These rules are in place to allow the capture and registration of biometric data that will be then stored in the passport’s chip.
Photo for U.S. passport renewal—size and format
According to the authorities, a passport photo needs to follow these specifications:
- 2 (two) inches in height and 2 (two) inches in width;
- the head must measure between 1 and 1 3/8 inches;
- high resolution and sharp focus;
- taken in the last 6 (six) months;
- plain white or off white background;
- printed on glossy or matte photo-quality paper;
- no damage, creases, or stains on the print.
Recently, the State Department has been testing an online passport renewal system expected to be fully up and running in 2023. In this case, it’s necessary to provide a digital photo according to the following requirements:
- at least 600 x 600 pixels;
- sRGB color space;
- JPEG format;
- sized between 54 kB and 10 MB;
- 20:1 compression ratio or less.
Passport renewal photo—appearance
After making sure that all technical settings are in order, applicants have to pose according to these indications:
- face in full view, directly facing the camera;
- neutral facial expression or a natural smile;
- no glasses;
- no hats or head coverings unless worn for medical or religious purposes;
- no headphones or other devices;
- no uniforms;
- facial piercings and jewelry are allowed if they don’t cover the face.
Additionally, even if there is no specific requirement, it’s advisable to avoid white clothing to clearly stand out from the background.
How to submit a photo for passport renewal
For a U.S. passport renewal application, the State Department requires only 1 (one) passport photo. As mentioned before, the picture needs to be less than 6 (six) months old, so it’s NOT possible to submit a previously used one, it has to be a new photo.
Applicants renewing by mail will have to staple the printed passport picture to Form DS-82 in the dedicated space. The authorities specify that it’s necessary to use 4 (four) staples located vertically in the corners and as close as possible to the edges. Photos attached in any other way or glued will be rejected.
Those who choose to get a new passport online only need to upload the file when requested by the government’s website.
The same requirements are valid for an applicant who picks the expedited service or decides to renew the document through a passport agency.
Related reading:
- Renew Passport By Mail
- When Do I Need to Renew My Passport?
- Can I Renew My Passport at the Post Office?
PhotoAiD®—the effortless way to get photos for passport renewal
As you can see, regardless of the process, the photo must follow very strict parameters to be acceptable to the State Department. This may not seem easy, but, with the help of PhotoAiD®, it will just be child’s play.
Over a million people have trusted our services so far and, thanks to our experts and support team, they have obtained perfect passport photos.
Here’s how we can assist:
- Our app resizes any photo to passport size keeping the required ratio. This allows customers to have a passport photo taken with just a smartphone—no professional equipment needed.
- We can replace any background with the required color. With us, passport photos can be taken without having to make appointments or travel anywhere—any place will be just like a photo studio.
- We’ll check the image according to the most recent passport photo requirements. First, our AI system scans the photo closely, then one of our experts double-checks everything. In the end, the picture will be 100% in line with the government’s rules.
- Unlimited snaps. Our customers can try until they get the perfect picture—no additional costs. Try it also for children and babies and get a stress-free photo for your child’s passport.
The digital photo will be sent right away, ready to be submitted for an online application; the printouts can be delivered to your door.
To know more:
- How to Take Passport Photo at Home
- How To Make a Passport Size Photo From Mobile
- Taking Passport Photos with Your iPhone
- How to Take a Passport Photo With An Android Phone?
FAQ
In the section below, we’ll address a few common questions about passport renewal photos.
What size photo is needed for a passport renewal?
Passport renewal application forms require a 2 x 2 inch passport photo.
Do I need a new photo to renew my passport online?
Yes, an online passport renewal requires a digital photo taken less than 6 (six) months ago.
How many photos to send for a passport renewal and a passport card?
Just one, it will be used for both documents.
Is a passport photo required for a passport renewal?
Yes, the form requires one photo.
What happens if I submit an old passport photo for a renewal?
It will likely be rejected, passport photos have to be less than 6 (six) months old.
Does the passport renewal photo need to be 2 x 2 inches?
Yes, 2 x 2 inches is the size for all U.S. documents.
Do you need to put in an extra photo for a passport renewal?
No, whether you are sending in the application through a post office or online, the State Department will only require one picture.
Conclusion
In order to be accepted, a photo for passport renewal needs to follow the official guidelines closely. It’s also necessary to attach it properly to the application form or the authorities will still not consider it valid.
Trust PhotoAiD® to get passport photos for you and any family member directly from home and with 100% guarantee of compliance—we’re available anywhere 24/7.
Riccardo Ollmert is a multilingual writer and travel expert. He studied Languages, Literature and Publishing Industry at La Sapienza University of Rome. His passions include traveling and learning new skills.
