Where to Get a Passport Photo Taken?

Where to get a passport photo taken? This is one of the most asked questions from our readers. Passport photos are one of many required documents necessary to get a passport. The State Department gave specific instructions on how the photo must be taken and in what color. So, here are the specifications for your picture.

Knowing where to go to get your passport photo taken can be a challenge, especially if you’re just trying to figure it out without any help. Luckily, there are several places near me that provide this service. Most of my local pharmacies offer passport photos for a reasonable fee, and I can even take the picture with my own digital camera and have it printed at a discounted price.

What are the Requirements for a Passport Photo?

  • It must be two by two inches
  • In color
  • White background
  • High quality
  • Taken on glossy or matte paper
  • It must be no more than six months old

Where to Get a Passport Photo Near Me?

These specifications must be followed, or the photo will be rejected, and this will cause a delay in the application process. To avoid any delays in your passport application, some locations abide by The State Department regulations and offer the service for a fee. If you visit any of these sites, your photo will not get rejected. Also, you will get your photo right after you take it.

Places to Take a Passport Photo

There are many places in your neighborhood you can go to take a passport photo; unless you live in an area where some of these facilities are few, do not exist, or are far away. Prices in each location may vary, so be prepared when going to take your photo.

Passport Acceptance Facilities

Most locations that accept passport applications will take your photo as well. These places are post offices, county clerk offices, courthouses, and public libraries. If you choose to submit your application in person, it would be easy to take the picture simultaneously. For first-time applicants, it is advisable to visit one of these locations to apply.

Before you visit any of these acceptance facilities, verify that it takes a photo; otherwise, you will need to visit another for your picture.

Shipping Stores

The two major shipping companies, FedEx and UPS, are also in the passport photo business. Yes, you can visit any of these stores to have your passport photo taken. Like the acceptance facilities, FedEx and UPS charge a fee for the service. You can locate a store in your area by visiting their websites and searching by store locator. At the same time, I asked if the service was available before showing up.

Some stores may require an appointment, so please very if one is necessary before visiting. Also, asked for the cost not to be surprised when you are there. At any of these locations, you can mail your application package as well, and if you need expedited mailing, they offer it too.

Pharmacies and Retail Stores

If you live in a residential area where there is a Rite Aid, CVS, or Walgreens, you can take a passport photo at any of these pharmacies. Since there are many of these chain pharmacies, they are more convenient to visit and do not require an appointment.

For example, there are over 8000 Walgreens stores throughout the U.S.

The cost, however, is more when compared to passport acceptance facilities. Also, the service is available only when a technician is in the store. So, before going to any of the three sites, call to verify the cost and times the service is available.

Wal-Mart is one of a few chain retail companies that offer passport photo services. Since this is a 24-hour store, you can walk in anytime and get your photo taken. So, the next time you are in a Walmart store, get your picture taken if you know your passport will expire soon and has already expired.

Membership Stores

Are you a member of Costco or Sam’s Club? If you are, you will get the cheapest passport photos. You can visit the photo department to take your picture. Again, verify that the store near you is of this service before going. Another membership store that offers this service is AAA. To locate a site, visit the website to determine what you qualify for a discount. Based on your membership, you may get the photos for free.

Professional Photo Studio

Professional photo studios are not as common as they were in the past. For this reason and others, most people gravitate to locations that are more convenient. Also, a professional studio will charge a higher fee compared to the other places. Nevertheless, if you are near a photo studio, you can get your photo taken by a professional.

Mobile Passport Photo Apps

Another option is to use a mobile passport photo app. These apps are designed to help you take your own picture with your phone and then print it out. Although the photos may not be as professional looking as those taken in a studio, they will still meet all of the requirements for a valid passport photo. Be aware that some governments do not accept photos taken from mobile applications, so check this before using them.

Passport Expeditors

If you are in a rush and need a passport in less than two weeks, you can use an expediting service to get a passport. When visiting the expeditor to submit your application, you can take your picture in the office. Please verify that the service is available to avoid any delays. If it is available, ask about the cost to prevent any surprises while at the office.

Overall

Now, you are familiar with the different locations where you can take your photo. You can visit the nearest site and get your picture in minutes to avoid any delays in your application. If you are a Costco, Sam’s Club, or AAA member, asked about the service to determine if you will save by using the service.

Keep in mind that the most convenient place can be the most expensive, so look around and get your picture taken at your convenience.

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