Documents Required for a U.S. Passport Application in 2025
Countries with the Most Changes in 2025 Requirements
Introduction: scope and focus on photo requirements
This guide concentrates exclusively on passport photo requirements, validation, preparation, and compliance as described for 2025, using the official U.S. passport guidance in the source text to help you avoid common mistakes and ensure fast processing.
Why 2025 changes matter for passport photos
REAL ID enforcement by May 7, 2025 increases the importance of having a compliant passport for domestic air travel, so meeting photo specifications is essential to avoid delays or the need for expedited services.
Core photo specifications (applicable to adults and minors)
Passport photos must be 2 × 2 inches, in full color, printed on matte or glossy photo paper, with a plain white or off‑white background, and taken within six months of application.
Head positioning and size requirements
Your head must be centered in the frame and cover about 50–69% of the photo height; proper framing supports facial-recognition reliability and compliance with biometric standards.
Facial expression and eye position
Use a neutral expression with eyes open and mouth closed; neutral expressions are required to ensure automated and manual identity verification can be completed without delays.
Background, lighting, and shadows
Photos must use a plain white or off‑white background with even lighting and no shadows on the face or behind the head, because shadows can cause rejection by automated systems.
Glasses, hats, and head coverings
No glasses or hats are generally allowed; religious or medical head coverings are permitted only if they do not obscure the face and appropriate documentation is provided.
Photo paper and print quality requirements
Photos should be printed on matte or glossy photo paper and, for renewals, on high‑quality photo paper; poor print quality can trigger a request for replacement images.
Renewals: photo rules and timelines
Renewal applicants must submit a new compliant photo that is no more than six months old and follows the same strict guidelines as first‑time applications.
Minors and special cases: applying the photo standards
Photo requirements remain strict for minors; while parental consent and presence rules differ, the photo itself must still meet the same size, background, expression, and recency standards.
Common photo mistakes that delay processing
Avoid submitting photos that are the wrong size, older than six months, have non‑plain backgrounds, contain shadows, include glasses or hats, show off‑center heads, or are printed on low‑quality paper.
What to expect at acceptance facilities regarding photos
For first‑time applicants using Form DS‑11, bring a compliant 2 × 2 photo to the in‑person appointment; acceptance agents inspect photos and will compare them to your ID and citizenship documents.
Actionable pre‑submission checklist (practical steps)
1) Take your photo within 6 months; 2) ensure it is 2 × 2 inches, color, matte or glossy; 3) use a plain white/off‑white background with no shadows; 4) center the head and keep it 50–69% of frame height; 5) use a neutral expression with eyes open and mouth closed; 6) remove glasses and non‑permitted accessories; 7) print on high‑quality paper; 8) bring originals and photocopies of required IDs to your appointment or include the photo with DS‑82 for renewals.
Practical tips for getting a compliant photo (actionable steps)
Use a professional passport photo service that knows the 2 × 2 inch and head size rules, verify prints are on matte or glossy photo paper, ask for a proof to check head proportion and background, and keep the photo date within six months.
Documentation for exceptions (religious or medical coverings)
If you need to wear a religious or medical covering, be prepared to provide supporting documentation since coverings are allowed only when they do not obscure the face and verification may be required.
If your photo is rejected: immediate steps to take
If instructed to provide a replacement, retake the photo following the exact specs above—especially size, background, and head proportion—and resubmit the new, compliant image to avoid further delays.
How photo compliance saves time and money
Submitting a compliant photo the first time avoids retakes, reduces processing delays, and lessens the need for expedited services and extra fees, benefiting both first‑time applicants and renewals.
Final reminders and quick reference
Remember the essentials: 2 × 2 inches, color, plain white/off‑white background, neutral expression, head 50–69% of frame, no glasses/hats (unless documented), taken within six months, printed on matte or glossy paper—follow these to stay compliant and speed your passport issuance.