Can I smile in a passport photo?
A natural closed-mouth smile is usually acceptable as long as the full face is visible and the expression looks natural.
Requirements Guide
US Passport Photo Requirements For 2026
If you want to avoid a rejected application, start with the current passport photo rules. Here are the core requirements people get wrong most often.
- Photo size: 2 x 2 inches
- Plain white or off-white background
- Taken within the last 6 months
- No glasses for most applicants
Core passport photo rules
US passport photos must be in color, 2 x 2 inches, clear, recent, and taken against a plain white or off-white background. Your face should be centered and directly facing the camera.
The final image should represent your current appearance and avoid shadows, filters, or distracting accessories.
- Recent photo taken within the last 6 months
- Neutral expression or natural closed-mouth smile
- Face fully visible and centered
- Even lighting with no shadows on face or background
Common rejection reasons
The most common failures are bad crops, uneven lighting, patterned backgrounds, glasses glare, and images that are too dark or soft.
Home photos can work well if the source image is clean and the final crop follows the official proportions.
Special rules for babies and children
Baby passport photos follow the same size and background rules, but there is more flexibility around eye openness for very young infants. Hands, toys, or visible supports should not appear in the final image.
A white sheet, car seat setup, or overhead photo can work well if the lighting is even and the child is centered.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I wear glasses in a passport photo?
In most cases, no. Eyeglasses often cause rejection because they can obstruct the eyes or create glare.
Do baby passport photos have different rules?
The size and background rules are the same, but infants have slightly more flexibility around eye openness and pose.