Most of us flash our best smile when a camera is in front of us. However, a simple smile can make or break your ticket to paradise when applying for a passport. For those unaware, passport photo rules and regulations can be strict, but we are here to help you through them. We’ll even answer the burning question: can you smile in a passport photo?
Understanding American Passport Photo Regulations
Passport guidelines are strict because the State Department sets the regulations and wants to ensure consistency and accuracy when identifying an applicant. To achieve this level of accuracy, the applicant’s face must have a neutral expression. This is important for clear facial recognition, which is necessary for the accuracy of the identification process.
The Debate: Can You Smile in a Passport Photo
Historically, there have been debates about whether people should be able to smile in passport photos. Some argue that it is a matter of personal representation, while others believe personal preference is irrelevant to a government document. Despite this debate, the Department of State has clarified that a neural expression is preferred in passport photos.
While a slight smile (no teeth) may be accepted, smiling excessively or grinning is discouraged. A big smile can often distort your features, making you hard to identify in a natural state. Our advice: to prevent a denied passport application, you should skip out on smiling in your passport photo.
Practical Tips for Successful American Passport Photos
What are the rest of the passport photo guidelines? Here are some practical tips to make sure you meet the passport photo guidelines provided by the State Department:
- Size: 2 x 2 inches (51 x 51 mm).
- Color: Color photo with a plain white background.
- Expression: Neutral face or natural smile.
- Head Position: Directly facing the camera, no tilting.
- Eyes: Open and visible, no glasses glare.
- Attire: Normal clothing, no uniforms.
- Head Coverings: Allowed for religious or medical reasons.
- Background: Plain white or off-white, no patterns.
- Quality: High-resolution, no editing.
- Print: On matte or glossy photo paper.
- Size of Head: Between 1 inch and 1 3/8 inches.
- Digital Requirements: Must meet specific pixel dimensions, color depth, and file format for digital submissions.
Before taking your passport photo, research the specific requirements. These guidelines may change occasionally, so use the most updated rules.
Passport Application get denied? Need a fast passport? We can help you!
We at The Passport Office have had many customers come to us after their passport application gets denied. Often, it concerns their passport photo not meeting the rules and regulations. We also know that figuring it out on your own can be confusing. If you have any questions about the passport process, please don’t hesitate to contact The Passport Office. Our team is always here to help and provide guidance. Don’t let confusion or uncertainty hold you back from obtaining your passport. Let us help make the process as smooth as possible for you.
If you need expedited passport services, The Passport Office can deliver your passport in 3 days with our fastest service! We handle all applications, so call or visit our site to book with us today! Stay smiling, just maybe not in your passport photos.
