How to Renew Your Passport in Summer

Overview

Renewing your passport in summer means preparing paperwork carefully — and that starts with a correct passport photo. The Department of State has strict photo requirements, and a single non‑compliant picture can delay your renewal.

Official passport photo specifications

Your passport photo must be 2 × 2 inches, in color, and printed on a white or off‑white background. The photo must show a full face, forward‑facing view with a neutral expression and both eyes open.

Key appearance rules

Do not wear glasses in the photo. Head coverings are not allowed except for religious purposes, and even then the face must be fully visible. Avoid shadows on the face or background.

Why photo compliance matters

Providing a photo that meets these standards speeds up review and reduces the chance of rejection. One non‑compliant image is a common reason applications are returned or delayed.

Photo required for renewals (Form DS-82)

When renewing with DS‑82, enclose one new passport photo that meets federal specifications. The renewal packet should include your most recent passport plus the compliant 2 × 2‑inch color photograph.

Photo needs for first‑time applicants (Form DS-11)

First‑time applicants (DS‑11) also must provide passport photos that meet the same Department of State standards. If you must apply in person, bring the compliant prints with your other evidence of citizenship and identity.

Preparing your photo — actionable steps

1. Have a photographer or photo service print a color photo that is exactly 2 × 2 inches.

2. Verify the background is white or off‑white with no patterns or shadows.

3. Ensure your head is centered and you face the camera directly with a neutral expression and both eyes open.

4. Remove eyeglasses and any non‑religious headwear before the photo is taken.

Background and lighting tips

Use even, diffuse lighting to avoid shadows on the face or background. Stand several feet from the background so no shadow falls behind you. The background must be plain white or off‑white.

Clothing and framing guidance

Wear everyday clothing (no uniforms or camouflage). Frame the photo so your full face and the top of your shoulders are visible and centered within the 2 × 2‑inch print.

Religious head coverings

Head coverings for religious purposes are permitted only if they do not obscure the face. The full face must be visible from the hairline to the chin and from ear to ear.

Common photo mistakes to avoid

  • Wrong size (not 2 × 2 inches)
  • Non‑color or low‑quality prints
  • Glasses in the photo
  • Shadows on the face or background
  • Head coverings that obscure the face
  • Non‑plain or colored backgrounds

How invalid photos affect your application

Invalid passport photo format is listed among frequent application errors. Submitting a non‑compliant photo can cause processing delays or require a retake and resubmission.

What to submit with your photo

For renewals: include your most recent passport (face‑up on top of the form) and one new 2 × 2‑inch color photograph that meets federal specifications. For DS‑11 applicants: bring the required compliant photos along with citizenship and identity documents.

Mail vs. online renewals and photos

If you renew by mail using DS‑82, enclose a printed 2 × 2‑inch photo with your packet. If you are eligible for the State Department’s online renewal pilot, follow the program’s instructions for submitting a new compliant photo (the requirement for a recent compliant photo still applies).

Practical checklist before you submit

  • Confirm the photo is 2 × 2 inches and in color.
  • Verify background is white or off‑white and free of shadows.
  • Make sure you are facing directly forward with a neutral expression and both eyes open.
  • Remove glasses and non‑religious head coverings.
  • Include exactly one new passport photo when mailing DS‑82 or bringing DS‑11 in person.

Final tips

Double‑check the photo against the Department of State specifications before you submit. Getting your photo right the first time is one of the simplest ways to avoid summer processing delays and keep your renewal on schedule.