Why Passport Photos Get Rejected
A photo can be turned down when it does not meet the published requirements, such as those for head size and position, expression, glasses and head coverings, or photo quality.
Photo rules to check before you submit
The final decision is the issuing agency's. These are the rules Passport911 checks for a US passport photo. Items marked as a recommendation are Passport911 guidance, not official rules.
Size and position
- Exactly one person, facing the camera, with no one else in the photo.
- Head (chin to top of head) must be 50% to 69% of the photo height (1 to 1 3/8 inches in a 2x2 inch photo).
- Eyes should sit roughly 55% to 70% of the photo height from the bottom. (Passport911 recommendation (not an official rule))
- Head should be centered horizontally in the frame. (Passport911 recommendation (not an official rule))
- Face the camera directly, with the head not tilted or turned.
- Look straight at the camera.
Face and expression
- Both eyes must be open and clearly visible.
- Neutral expression or natural smile, with both eyes open.
- Hair must not cover the eyes or hide the face.
Glasses, head coverings and accessories
- No eyeglasses. A signed doctor's note is required if glasses cannot be removed for medical reasons.
- No hat or head covering, except daily religious or medical use (face fully visible, a signed statement is required).
- No headphones, wireless devices, or similar items.
- No uniforms or camouflage clothing.
Photo quality and background
- Photo must be sharp and high enough resolution to print or upload without pixelation.
- Photo should be in focus, not blurry or grainy. (Passport911 recommendation (not an official rule))
- Photo should be evenly lit, neither too dark nor overexposed. (Passport911 recommendation (not an official rule))
- No shadows on the face or in the background.
- No glare or reflections on the face or eyes (including red-eye).
- Photo must not be digitally altered, filtered, or retouched.
- No other people, objects, or items in the photo; plain background.
- Photo must be a real photo, not a picture of a printed photo or a screen.
Frequently asked questions
Who decides whether my photo is accepted?
The issuing agency makes the final decision.
How can I find problems before I submit?
Run the free Passport911 checker, which tests your photo against these published requirements.
Does passing the checker mean my photo will be accepted?
No. Passport911 checks your photo against published requirements, but final acceptance is decided by the issuing agency.
Sources
Content last reviewed 2026-10-18. Requirements can change, so confirm them with the issuing agency.