Cheapest Place to Get Passport Photos: Top Budget-Friendly Options

Obtaining a passport photo that meets all the required specifications can be both essential and challenging. These photos must adhere to specific guidelines, such as being 2 inches by 2 inches, having a white background, being in color, printed on matte paper, and taken within the last six months. Many people find themselves asking where they can get a cheap passport photo nearby.

Understanding what is necessary for a passport photo, whether digital or printed, helps in making informed decisions about where and how to get these photos taken. It’s important to ensure that the requirements are met, whether opting to take the photo at home or visiting a professional service.

Key Takeaways

• Passport photos must meet specific size and background requirements.
• Various local stores offer services for taking passport photos.
• Digital image requirements must be considered for scanned photos.

Cheap Passport Photos Near Me

Sam’s Club and Walmart offer some of the most affordable and professional passport photo services. These locations are excellent choices for quality photos at a low cost. For even greater savings, consider using a passport app to take your own photos.

Passport Photo Requirements

A passport photo must be taken within the last six months. The background should be plain white or off-white. The subject should be positioned with their full face visible, directly facing the camera, and maintaining a neutral facial expression with both eyes open.

Head coverings are not allowed unless they are worn daily for religious reasons. In these cases, the face must be clearly visible without shadows. Headphones and wireless devices are not permitted in the photos.

Eyeglasses are also not allowed in new visa photos except for medical reasons, in which case a medical statement is needed. Eyeglass frames must not cover the eyes, and there should be no glare on the lenses that blocks the eyes. Glasses should not create shadows or distort the view of the eyes.

If hearing devices or similar articles are typically worn, they can be included in the photo. The image must be sized between 1 inch and 1 3/8 inches (22 mm and 35 mm), or 50%-69% of the image height from the chin to the top of the head.

Digital Image Requirements

Scanning an Existing Passport Photo

• A 2 x 2 inch (51 x 51 mm) photo must be used for scanning.
• Ensure the photo is scanned at a resolution of 300 pixels per inch (12 pixels per millimeter).

These guidelines ensure that the digital image meets the necessary standards for the nonimmigrant visa application.

Passport Photos General Pricing (Updated 11/06/2023)

When it comes to getting passport photos, prices vary widely depending on the location. Here is a detailed look at the costs at various stores across the country.

Store-Specific Passport Photo Details

Walgreens: With over 7,750 locations, Walgreens charges $16.99 for two photos. Though this is on the higher side, the convenience of immediate service may justify the cost for many people.

CVS: Similar to Walgreens, CVS has around 7,500 stores and charges $16.99 for two photos. Occasionally, CVS offers coupons to bring the cost down, so checking for discounts might save you some money.

Rite Aid: Operating over 4,000 stores, Rite Aid charges $8.99 for two passport photos, making it a middle-ground option in terms of price.

Sam’s Club: Available to members, Sam’s Club offers some of the lowest prices at $5.31 for two photos. There are over 600 Sam’s Club locations across the U.S.

AAA: Pricing varies based on membership level. Basic members pay $10.00 while non-members pay $15.00. AAA’s pricing can be attractive if you are already a member or plan to use other member benefits.

Walmart: As one of the largest retail chains with over 5,000 stores, Walmart charges $7.64 for two photos. This is a reasonable price, and the service is quick.

Target: Having around 1,500 stores, Target charges $12.99 for two photos, placing it in the mid-high range.

FedEx Office: With approximately 2,000 locations, FedEx charges $14.95 for a pair of photos. This is on the higher side, but the convenience of many locations can be a factor.

UPS: Charging $11.99 for two photos, UPS has around 4,500 locations, offering a good balance between cost and convenience.

USPS: The price at USPS locations is $15.00 for two photos. While this is higher, the widespread availability of post offices may be convenient for many.

Costco: Despite the many services that Costco offers in its store, the company has made the difficult decision to offer passport photos no longer. While this may be an inconvenience for travelers who need to get their image taken for a passport application,

Key Considerations

When choosing where to get your passport photos, consider both the cost and convenience of location. Some stores might offer coupons or member discounts, so it’s a good idea to check before you go. Here’s a breakdown of the passport photo costs at popular stores:

• High Cost: Walgreens, CVS, FedEx
• Moderate Cost: Staples, USPS, UPS
• Low Cost: Rite Aid, Walmart, Sam’s Club

4 x 6 Prints Pricing

If you also need standard photo prints, here’s a quick comparison:

These additional print services can be handy if you need regular photo prints alongside your passport photos.

When selecting where to get your photos, balancing cost and convenience is essential. Prices vary, so choose the option that fits your budget and needs.

How Do You Take a Passport Photo for USCIS?

When taking a passport photo for USCIS, ensure the image is a 2-inch square. The head should be centered in the frame. From the top of the hair to the bottom of the chin, the head must measure between 1 to 1 3/8 inches. The eye level should be positioned between 1 1/8 to 1 3/8 inches from the bottom of the photo.

Can I Take a Passport Photo on My Phone?

Yes, taking a passport photo with a smartphone, whether an iPhone or Android, is possible. It’s important to follow guidelines closely. Ensure a white background, proper lighting, and have someone else take the picture (selfies are not accepted). Following these steps will help meet passport photo requirements.

Can You Smile With Teeth in Passport Photos?

In most places, photos showing teeth are not accepted. Even in the US, while a slight smile is allowed, showing teeth can lead to the photo being rejected.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some low-cost places to get passport photos?

For those looking for affordable spots to get passport photos, several options stand out. Membership clubs like Sam’s Club offer some of the lowest prices, charging around $5.31 for two photos. Additionally, some pharmacies and retail stores provide the service at reasonable rates.

Where can I find the best deals on passport photos at retail stores?

Retail stores like CVS and Walgreens are popular choices for passport photos. At CVS, the cost for two prints is about $16.99, though coupons can reduce this price. Walgreens also offers a similar service with professional-quality photos that meet U.S. government requirements.

How can I get a passport photo without breaking the bank?

If you’re aiming to save money on passport photos, consider utilizing membership-based stores such as Sam’s Club. They often have lower prices compared to non-membership outlets. Additionally, keep an eye out for coupons and discounts offered by retail stores like CVS.

Are there strategies to cut costs on passport photo fees?

To reduce the cost of passport photos, using coupons from stores like CVS can be very effective. Another strategy is to visit membership-based stores, which generally offer competitive prices. Comparing prices at various pharmacies and retail stores can also help in finding the best deals.

What is the typical cost for passport photos at pharmacies?

Pharmacies such as CVS and Walgreens usually charge around $16.99 for two passport photos. Sometimes, CVS offers coupons that can bring the price down by a couple of dollars, making it a bit more affordable.

Is it possible to take my own passport photos to save money?

Yes, taking your own passport photos is an option to save money. Ensure the photos meet U.S. government specifications, which include guidelines on pose, background, and facial expression. Using a good camera and following these requirements can help achieve acceptable results without the extra expense.